Choosing the right Bible translation is important, especially for Catholics who want a version that aligns with Church teachings. One popular option is The Great Adventure Bible, but is it officially approved by the Catholic Church? Let’s explore its status, features, and how it compares to other Catholic Bibles.
Which Bible Translations Are Approved by the Catholic Church?
The Catholic Church approves Bible translations that faithfully reflect Scripture while staying true to Catholic doctrine. Some of the most common Church-approved Bibles include:
New American Bible (NAB) – Used in U.S. Catholic liturgies.
Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSV-CE) – A highly accurate translation.
Douay-Rheims Bible – A traditional English translation based on the Latin Vulgate.
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSV-CE) – Used in academic and liturgical settings.
For a Bible to be approved, it must receive an Imprimatur (“let it be printed”) from a Catholic bishop, confirming it contains no doctrinal errors.
What Is the Great Adventure Bible?
The Great Adventure Bible is a Catholic-approved edition of the Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSV-CE). It is published by Ascension Press and features unique study tools developed by Jeff Cavins, a well-known Catholic Bible teacher.
Key Features of the Great Adventure Bible:
✅ Color-Coded Timeline – Helps readers track key biblical events.
✅ Thematic Summaries – Explains major themes like covenants and salvation history.
✅ Book Introductions – Provides context for each book of the Bible.
✅ Study Notes – Offers insights to help readers understand difficult passages.
✅ Maps & Charts – Visual aids to enhance Bible study.
Because it uses the RSV-CE text, it carries the Imprimatur, meaning it is officially approved by the Catholic Church.
Is the Great Adventure Bible a Good Translation?
Yes! The RSV-CE is known for being:
✔ Accurate – A faithful translation from original Hebrew and Greek.
✔ Readable – Clear language while maintaining depth.
✔ Trusted – Used by scholars, priests, and lay Catholics.
The added study tools make it especially helpful for beginners and those wanting a deeper understanding of the Bible’s big picture.
Is the NIV Adventure Bible Catholic?
No. The NIV (New International Version) Adventure Bible is a Protestant translation and not approved for Catholics. While it has engaging features for kids and teens, it lacks:
❌ The Deuterocanonical books (Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, etc.).
❌ A Catholic Imprimatur.
Catholics should choose Bibles specifically labeled as Catholic editions.
Can I Get the Great Adventure Bible Online or on Kindle?
Yes! The Great Adventure Bible is available in:
📖 Print (Hardcover & Paperback)
📱 Digital (Kindle & eBook formats)
💻 Online Access (Through platforms like Ascension’s website)
The digital versions include all the same study tools, making it easy to read on the go.
What’s the Best Order to Read the Bible?
Many people start at Genesis but get stuck in Leviticus or Numbers. The Great Adventure Bible recommends a chronological approach based on Jeff Cavins’ “The Bible Timeline”:
Early World (Genesis 1-11)
Patriarchs (Genesis 12-50)
Exodus & Conquest (Exodus, Numbers, Joshua)
Judges & Kingdom (Judges, 1-2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings)
Exile & Return (Ezra, Nehemiah, Maccabees)
Gospels & Early Church (Matthew–Acts)
This method helps readers see how God’s plan unfolds across history.
Final Verdict: Is the Great Adventure Bible Catholic?
✅ Yes! The Great Adventure Bible is an officially approved Catholic Bible (RSV-CE text with Imprimatur).
✅ It’s great for beginners and experienced readers due to its study tools.
✅ Avoid the NIV Adventure Bible (not Catholic-approved).
If you want a Bible that’s engaging, easy to understand, and Church-approved, the Great Adventure Bible is an excellent choice!
