THE SHORT ANSWER
Choose a hand-out Bible based on the language and reading experience of the recipients, the purpose and your total budget. First decide whether you want to give a complete Bible, a New Testament or a Gospel. City Bibles offers options for Bible distribution and printing projects.
Start with the people you want to reach
First make it clear for whom you choose the Bibles. A reading group that wants to go through the Bible together for a whole year has different wishes than visitors who are introduced to Jesus Christ for the first time during a conversation. Where possible, ask what the recipient would like to read.
With different native languages, a mixed order can be more useful than one Dutch edition for everyone. Read for that how to choose a Bible in another language.
Four options to discuss
City Bibles describes different types of editions. These four options help to target your application; they are not current stock or price promises.
- A New Testament: an opportunity for those who want to get acquainted with Jesus Christ and the first Christian communities. Explain that the Old Testament is missing.
- A Complete Bible: appropriate if the recipient wants to read further in both the Old and New Testaments. Check which Bible books the selected translation contains.
- A luxury Bible: to consider for a personal gift or long-term use. Have cover, binding and size confirmed; a more luxurious version does not automatically change the translation.
- A large print Bible: to consider when reading comfort is important. Ask for the actual font size and a reading sample; large size alone is insufficient.
A separate Gospel of John can also be a smaller introduction. Clearly call such a book a gospel, so that someone does not expect a complete Bible.
This is how you prepare an application for City Bibles
City Bibles supports churches and organizations in Bible distribution and production. State your goal, desired language and translation, number of copies, destination and desired delivery date. First ask about existing publications before considering your own cover or printing project.
Please confirm total costs and terms. Indicative printing costs are not automatically the price for a single order; shipping, circulation and execution can make a difference.
First view, then determine quantities
If possible, view one copy or a preview version before opting for an entire group. Test your reading comfort and discuss whether the words used are understandable. In a joint reading group, a connection with the translation used is often more useful than just the lowest price.
Are you looking for a personal gift? Read which Bible you can give as a gift. For Dutch editions you can compare our current selection. We help you if you need reading comfort large print advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is a New Testament the same as a complete Bible?
No. A New Testament does not contain the Old Testament. When giving away, clearly state the contents of the publication.
Can I have my own cover made?
City Bibles describes options for customized projects. Ask about the conditions, available translations, minimum edition and delivery time before making plans.
Can I place a group order via this website?
No. We provide selection advice and refer directly to City Bibles. You discuss the order or project there yourself.
Topics: Handing out Bibles, Bible distribution, City Bibles
Sources and accountability
For information about translations and editions, we consulted these sources on October 15, 2026:
An addition or correction? Let us know.