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Bible study isn’t strictly an educational pursuit but something that’s meant to transform the soul. Today’s reviews by Elizabeth Woodson highlight three different Bible studies, each of which reflects on a particular section of Scripture and examines what that passage reveals about our spiritual identity.
Happy Reading,
Taylor Berglund
Senior Features Editor, Christianity Today
A portion of this newsletter appeared as a column at Christianity Today. Join CT for full access to all our journalism.
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Three Bible Studies & Devotionals
Jane Johnson, Worthy (Bethany House, 2026)
Worthy guides readers through a close reading of Paul’s Prison Epistles, demonstrating how a deep knowledge of the Scriptures transforms our love for God. With a focus on building biblical literacy, author Jane Johnson begins each chapter by sharing specific resources readers can use to aid their study of the selected passage. She then provides a conversational commentary on her observations, unpacking a select group of Greek words present in that portion of the epistle.
Though I found Worthy at times insightful, the book as a whole felt disjointed. Rather than illuminating relevant themes, the book’s structure more often obscured rather than highlighted how Paul weaved the theme of “worthy” throughout the Prison Epistles. I sometimes felt a disconnect between the exegesis of the text and Johnson’s chapter-by-chapter insights. Still, readers looking for a good word study will find plenty to appreciate, as Johnson successfully leaves readers in awe of the one to whom Paul’s letters point and helps them build the habit of meditating on how to worship him.
Nathan L. Nicholson, In the Beginning We Create (InterVarsity Press, 2026)
Artist and graphic designer Nathan L. Nicholson uses Genesis 1 as a point of inspiration for how creatives are to steward their divine vocation. He writes, “We are creative because we were made in the image of our Creator.” By drawing out themes from the creation story—including collaboration, workmanship, growth, and rest—Nicholson provides practical reflections on how readers can emulate God’s creative process. Whether the artistic medium is painting, photography, writing, or filmmaking, the book encourages readers to reenvision the ways they maximize their artistic potential by developing their skills and stretching the boundaries of their chosen medium.
Readers will experience Nicholson as a welcome companion for their journey of creative exploration. Alongside his theological observations, he shares wisdom drawn from his own development as an artist. I appreciated his vulnerability: By sharing his personal stories, Nicholson models the courage he is asking the reader to embody.
In a moment when many believers struggle to understand how to appropriately harness the power of their creative giftings, Nicholson is a much-needed guide. I believe his words will help readers amplify their own artistic