I can’t remember when I first realized that it was a coveted item. I think, like many traditions in our world, it was passed along to me in story. I think the story went something like this . . .
Jim Rayburn and all the patriarchs of Young Life used this bible. Bob Mitchell, Tom Raley, Harry MacDonald, Bill Starr, Doug Burleigh, and Bob Reeverts. They ALL had a J.B. Phillips bible. All of the speaking that took place at clubs and summer camps – a Phillips bible was in hand. Start looking, and you’ll see!
So, I did. Sure enough, it was true. I not only saw all these giants in Young Life holding a Phillips bible, but if they didn’t have it on them, I asked. Everytime there was not just an affirmative response, but rather, a revered response when talking about their “Cookbook” bible. Some of them said it was “tucked into a special place.” Others talked about only speaking from it, and not traveling with it.
One thing was sure – it was special.
In my 20’s I had a habit of stopping at all used bookstores. I can still remember all the bookstores from Salem to Portland and all around the Oregon Coast. I would walk through the front door and ask for the “religious” section. 9 times out of 10 it would be a “whiff.” Every once in a while I would see that colorful bridge of the “cookbook” and what a day that was!
Today, there is no need to travel to used bookstores. Although, it is still very “Charlie – Wonka – Golden- Ticket – Like” to stop at a used book store. Today, with Ebay, Craigslist, and the like, I never don’t have a supply on hand to give as gifts.
There are MANY types of J.B. Phillips bibles. Here are the ones that you should look for:
The Cookbook:
The Leather Bound:
This is from the "Casebeer Collection"
The Mini-Phillips:
Remember this key point . . . the publisher MacMillan is not the correct bible. The publisher Bles is the correct bible. Many a “newbie” has made that mistake early on.
Three examples from my collection -- Leather slip cover, mini with slip cover, and the infamous -- "Cookbook"
One week from today, anyone who is signed up to receive this Blog via email will be put into the “drawing pool” to receive one of two Cookbook bibles I have on hand. Sign-up to receive the blog in email form and you are in the pool. Two bibles will be sent out next Thursday!
Have a great day, and happy hunting!
Eric