Why Red Letter Bibles? Have you ever come across a Bible with some words printed in red? These are known as “red letter Bibles.” But what exactly do those red letters mean, and why are they there?
What Are Red Letter Bibles?
Red letter Bibles are editions where the words of Jesus are printed in red ink. This special formatting is meant to highlight the direct quotes of Jesus Christ, making them easy to spot. The idea is to help readers focus on the teachings of Jesus without having to search through the text.
When I went shopping for my new Bible, I checked to make sure it was a red letter edition. There’s just something about reading the Bible and concentrating on Jesus’ words. They stand out in the red lettering.
One of my favorite songs that I love listening to is Crowder’s “Red Letters,” where he thanks God for His red letters in the Bible.
Where and What are the Red Letters in the Bible?
In a red letter Bible, the words of Jesus appear in red throughout the New Testament. You’ll see them in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, where Jesus speaks directly to His disciples, the crowds, and even during His final moments on the cross. Some red letter Bibles also include Jesus’ words in the book of Acts and Revelation, where He speaks to His followers after His resurrection.
Most of Matthew chapters five and six are printed in red, including The Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:10-13. Another familiar verse is Matthew 7:7, “Ask, and it will be given unto you; seek, and you will find.” (NKJV)
The Lord’s Prayer is in Matthew 6:9-13. That passage is helpful for anyone who doesn’t really know how to pray or what to say when they do. Jesus said,
“When you pray, say…”
“Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.”
One of my favorite verses I like, especially on nights my insomnia kicks in, is Matthew 11:28, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (NKJV)
The Origin of Red Letter Bibles
The concept of using red ink to highlight the words of Jesus was first introduced in 1899 by Louis Klopsch, an editor of the Christian Herald magazine. He wanted to create a Bible that emphasized Jesus’ words to inspire deeper reflection on His teachings. Since then, red letter Bibles have become widely popular among Christians who want to focus on the message of Christ.
Why Red Letter Bibles Matter
What do the red letters in the Bible mean? Many people appreciate red letter Bibles because they make it easier to identify and meditate on Jesus’ words. It’s a visual reminder to focus on His teachings, especially during personal study or prayer time. The red letters can be a source of encouragement, guidance, and comfort, especially when you’re searching for hope or direction.
Influential Red Letter Verses to Read
There are red letters in the Bible that will actually help you in some dire situations; life lessons from Jesus Himself. Here are some that I really like, from the New King James Version (NKJV), which is what I primarily use:
Luke 4:4 “It is written, man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.” In the Lord’s Prayer it’s said, “Give us this day our daily bread.” Our daily bread should be our daily devotional with God’s word, in addition to whatever we’re having for breakfast.
Luke 4:8 “Get thee behind Me, Satan.” (KJV) In the NKJV the word “thee” is omitted, but the omission doesn’t detract from the meaning. If you’re having a bad day, say God’s word out loud. I often just say, “Go away Satan and take your demons with you!” Doing this really does help!
John 8:36 “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” I was reading some passages in John one day and came across this verse and remembered it’s part of the chorus of one of my favorite worship songs!
A familiar phrase that we often hear people say, especially around the holidays, is in Acts 20:35, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Yes, those are the words of Jesus and printed as red letters in the Bible.
The Way to Salvation is in the Red Letters
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
John 14:6 “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.“
After Salvation, Christians should be baptized according to God’s word in Matthew 28:19 “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
Should You Use a Red Letter Bible?
Once you know what are red letters in the Bible, you’ll finmd they can be a great tool, it’s important to remember that the entire Bible is inspired by God. The red letters don’t make Jesus’ words more important than the rest of Scripture, but they can help you focus on His direct teachings more easily. Whether you choose a red letter Bible or a traditional one, the key is to engage with God’s Word and let it transform your life.
If you don’t have a red letter edition Bible, you can always find one somewhere. I’ve actually found Bibles in Goodwill stores. You may find some at auctions, on eBay, or Amazon. A Bible doesn’t have to be brand new to get meaning from it.
Even if it’s a well used Bible, make it your own! Add your own comments in the sidebars or underline or highlight your favorite verses. Carry it in a special protective case to church or group meetings and Bible studies.
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What are your thoughts on Red Letter Edition Bibles? Do you have one?
