Normally the buying of a product doesn’t cause too much trouble. All you need to do is a little research, compare the different brands and prices, and you’re all set. Simple, right?
Unfortunately, the word “simple” usually doesn’t apply to the computer world. With all the ease of life that technology affords, I’ve yet to experience more ongoing frustration than when I’m sitting at my computer. And trying to buy a new computer — well that’s another set of aggravations: New or used? Laptop or desktop? Warranty, no warranty, one-year warranty, three-year warranty, one-year on-site warranty, three-year on-site warranty?
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Have we discussed brands yet? There’s a million to choose from! And wait, what about specs? RAM, SDRAM, megahertz, gigahertz, kilobytes, processors, video cards, audio cards, network cards, DVD, CD, CDRW, hard drives, zip drives, floppy drives . . . ahhhhh!
With the onslaught of progress, the inevitability of technological advancement and the productivity of a free market economy, the choices are destined to increase. Of course, with your light ministry schedules, you’ve got plenty of time to research the myriad of possibilities, right?
I know your schedule is full, so I won’t waste your time by leaving the tech jargon where it belongs — in the fine print of your user manuals. A lot of time can be wasted using technology designed to save time, but I’m still a firm believer in the value of Bible study software.
I’m continually amazed at the benefits of computer-aided research and Bible study tools, and it keeps getting faster, better and more user-friendly. Though computers can be frustrating at times, I wouldn’t think of trading my electronic resources for a table full of books and legal pads.
This year’s review will highlight some of the best new resources you just can’t do without. And it will remind you that computers and software can simplify your life and enhance your sermon preparation.
Bible Study Libraries
for PC Users
eBible Deluxe Edition
Nelson Reference & Electronic Publishing (www.nelsonreference.com) has compiled several resources into their own Bible Study Library. There are over $2,000 worth of resources, but the real beauty of this resource is that it utilizes the Libronix Digital Library System.
If you are not familiar with Libronix, you can read last year’s review. (It’s available at www.preaching.com.) I will also be mentioning a little about Libronix’s upgrade later in this review.
There are several Bible versions as well as resources for cross-referencing, word studies, background information, commentary study, maps and charts, teaching helps, apologetics, Bible reference, theology, church history, worship, and devotions. Some of the notable resources are: the New Illustrated Bible Manners & Customs, Nelson’s New Christian Dictionary, Believers Bible Commentary with the Word Bible Commentary, Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook, and Church History in Plain Language.