7 Best Bibles For Kids

It was important to me, as a young mom, to begin sharing God’s Word with my children right from the start. Obviously they weren’t able to retain much during those initial months, but I wanted them to know how very much they were loved. Not only by Mommy and Daddy, but even more importantly by the very One who fashioned them together and chose to send His Son to die in their place.

Needless to say, we’ve read a lot of Bibles and Bible storybooks over the last several years.  I’d like to share with you some of the best Bibles for kids that we’ve come to know and love.

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7 Best Bibles For Kids

Children’s Bibles and Bible storybooks can vary widely in depth and content. Although I sincerely believe that reading to our young children straight from God’s Word is ideal, I also know that finding a Bible that is geared towards young visual learners can be extremely helpful and easier for them to grasp.  If you’re wondering what the best children’s Bible is, we’ve got a few to share with you! Here are our favorite Bibles for kids.

The Complete Illustrated Children’s Bible

The Complete Illustrated Children’s Bible is our current favorite to read together as a family! I’m truly surprised that I didn’t discover this one sooner. The realistic illustrations are absolutely stunning! Another pro about this one is that it includes many unfamiliar or not as popular Biblical accounts that are often overlooked by the majority of children’s Bibles.

We need to faithfully teach our kids God’s Word without feeling the need to water it down to make it more age appropriate. This children’s Bible beautifully shares the truths of God’s Word in an easy to understand format without compromising on content. The intriguing pictures quickly capture the listener’s (and reader’s) attention making them eager for more of God’s Word!

The Jesus Storybook Bible

There’s a reason The Jesus Storybook Bible has been on the best sellers list for so long. Author Sally Llyod-Jones does an incredible job of sharing God’s redemptive story from creation to the cross. She continually weaves the gospel throughout these kids Bible stories pointing the reader directly to Jesus.

Young ones will come to understand their need for a Savior and the amazing love Jesus holds for them. And adults will see the beauty of God’s grace and mercy all over again. This is another favorite in our home! If you’re looking for a Bible for toddlers or preschoolers this is an excellent choice!

God’s Good News Bible Storybook

Beloved evangelist Billy Graham wrote the God’s Good News Bible Storybook a few years back for children ages 4-11. What I appreciate most about this one is that the bulk of the material is literally just Scripture (NKJV).

Mr. Graham also has some helpful notes and thought provoking questions at the end of each day’s reading to get little minds thinking. Each section of Scripture is short and succinct making it especially helpful for shorter attention spans.

NKJV Adventure Bible

The Adventure Bible (ages 8 and up) is the perfect transition for older children who are able to read on their own and ready for an actual copy of God’s Word. An appealing magnetic hardback cover design, color pages, fun facts, and “Life in Bible Times” are just a few of the extra highlights of this kid friendly Bible!

Following Jesus Bible

One of the first things I learned about God’s Word after coming to Christ was the importance of digging deep to study it for ourselves. By simply asking the “who, what, when, where, and why” questions of a passage we can attain a better understanding of the culture, history, and people of that time period.

The facts surrounding the Bible’s true historical accounts often bring about those “light bulb” moments. The Following Jesus Bible (geared towards ages 8-12) offers “feature boxes” to clearly answer those questions and bring the text to life. This Bible is available in hardcover, imitation leather, and paperback.

The Action Bible Study Bible

I was introduced to the Action Bible about a year ago. It’s comic book design is quite popular among older kids, especially boys. Although this one of a kind Bible is most definitely unique in nature, I honestly felt like it was lacking and took away from God’s Word. However, I was thrilled when I discovered that they now have an ESV Action Bible Study Bible (ages 9-12)! I believe that the English Standard Version (ESV) is, hands down, one of the best Bible versions for kids (and adults!)

This Bible combines the best of both worlds- the engaging comic book pictures AND Scripture! Memory verse sections, trivia questions, study notes, maps, dictionary, concordance, and book overviews are some of the extra features of this Bible. It comes in gray, blue, and lavender imitation leather as well as a hardback version. There is also an Action Bible handbook and even a coloring book for younger children.

The Evidence Bible

If you have a teenager and are looking for the best youth Bible I would wholeheartedly recommend The Evidence Bible. I honestly can’t say enough good things about this one! I bought a copy shortly after it came out nearly 20 years ago and haven’t seen anything like it since.

The Evidence Bible is compiled by well-known author and evangelist Ray Comfort. The purpose behind all of the facts, quotes, questions and answers etc. throughout this Bible is to equip Christians to know what they believe and why in order to better defend their faith.

We’re living in a day and age where Christianity is being attacked from every angle. Sadly, many believers (although their faith is genuine) don’t have a strong Biblical foundation to begin with and cannot confidently provide evidence for the doubts that come their way.

This Bible will not only strengthen your faith, but also encourage you to boldly and compassionately share the hope of the gospel with those around you.

Related: CHRISTIAN MUSIC FOR KIDS: 25 SWEET SONGS

Which Bible Is Best For Children?

If I had to recommend only one best Bible for kids I would choose The Complete Illustrated Children’s Bible. It is an excellent choice for younger children (birth to age 8). With over 600 pages and nearly 300 color illustrations it is packed with a plethora of Biblical accounts and beautiful pictures.

The realistic images teach children that the Bible isn’t a fairy tale of made up stories. It contains historical events of real people in need of a Savior, and a merciful and gracious God who chose to send them a Redeemer.

For older children (8-12) I would recommend the Action Bible Study Bible and for teens and up I’d suggest The Evidence Bible.

What Book of the Bible Should A Child Read First?

As far as what book of the Bible a child should read first, my recommendation would be the New Testament book of John. The central message of Scripture is the fall of man, our desperate need for a Savior, and Jesus’ redemptive sacrifice and gift of salvation. John clearly explains the gospel as well as the ministry of Jesus and His disciples.

This would be a great starting point for any child or new believer to gain a better understanding of God’s character, unconditional love, and our sin nature, and need of forgiveness.  

What Is A Good Bible for Beginners?

The ESV (English Standard Version) is an excellent translation for beginners (whether young readers or adult new believers.) You may have noticed that there are multiple Bible translations out there. The ESV is a “word for word” translation rather than a “thought for thought” translation or paraphrase.

The latter two aren’t necessarily wrong, but can have a tendency to be more of the translator’s interpretation of Scripture rather than the literal original Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic texts translated into English. The Evidence Bible or Action Bible Study Bible (mentioned above) would both be a great Bible for any beginner. They are both solid resources with an accurate translation and some additional study helps.

Best Bibles for Kids and Families

There are several excellent options out there for the best kids Bibles. If you’d like to get a better idea before you make a purchase you may want to contact your local library to see if you can request a copy to borrow first.

I hope that this list of the best Bibles for kids was helpful for you and your family and that you find a new Bible to enjoy. Teaching our children to dig into and cherish God’s Word can go a long way in pointing them to the Man who died to be their Savior.