ESV Beholding Christ Bible with 365 Readings by Nancy Guthrie, TruTone

Daily introductions from Nancy Guthrie connect each Bible passage to the person and work of Christ, giving readers context to consider alongside the Scripture itself. The ESV Beholding Christ Bible includes the full ESV text and a 365-day reading plan, with reflections placed throughout the Bible rather than in a separate companion book.

That format is suited to readers who want guided context as they read through Scripture, not just a reading schedule.

Technical details

• Type: Full-text Bible with daily reading introductions
• Translation: ESV
• Contributor: Nancy Guthrie
• Reading plan: 365 daily readings
• Print length: 1,816 pages
• Cover: TruTone, Soft Umber
• Dimensions: 6 x 2.06 x 9 inches
• Item weight: 3.04 pounds

Usage tips

The daily readings are designed to accompany passages from across the Bible. Guthrie’s introductions explain key themes, unfamiliar people and events, and how each passage fits into the larger story of redemption. They also point out words and ideas to watch for, then suggest ways to respond through prayer, reflection, meditation, and worship.

For a practical routine, read the assigned Scripture passage with its introduction, then use the prompts to guide further thought or prayer. The book also offers fresh introductions to each biblical book, which can help readers orient themselves before starting a new section. You’ll appreciate it if you want teaching and reflection integrated with a complete Bible text. If you already use another translation, the separate Beholding Christ guide contains the same readings without the ESV text, so it can accompany a Bible you own.

Tips for day-to-day use

The 365-day structure provides a defined reading for each day of the plan, while the explanatory material adds more than a passage checklist. Readers can follow the sequence or use the book’s introductions to explore themes and context as they read. The prompts are also useful when a passage raises questions about its setting or place in the Bible’s broader narrative.

This is a substantial print volume: its listed weight is 3.04 pounds. That may matter if you plan to carry it regularly, a lighter Bible without extensive integrated teaching may fit that use better. It may not suit you if you want a Bible with no added commentary or daily guidance.

Practical questions

Does this edition include the Bible text? Yes. It contains the full ESV Bible text, with Guthrie’s introductions interspersed throughout.

What does the daily reading material cover? The introductions offer context, highlight themes and key ideas, and connect the passage to Christ and the larger story of redemption. They also include prompts for reflection and response.

Is the reading plan only a schedule? No. Each of the 365 daily readings pairs a Bible passage with explanatory teaching, so the plan provides guidance alongside the assigned text.

Buying verdict

Choose this edition if you want a complete ESV Bible that builds daily teaching and Christ-focused reflection into the reading experience. It offers a more guided approach than a plain-text Bible, while keeping the Scripture and introductions together in one volume. If you prefer another translation or want to use your existing Bible, the companion book is the more suitable format, this edition’s defining benefit is having the ESV text and Guthrie’s readings in the same book.