The Birth of the Red-Letter Bible
For over a century, red-letter Bibles have been a staple of Christian devotion. But have you ever wondered where this tradition originated? The answer lies in the vision of Louis Klopsch, a pioneering publisher who sought to make the words of Jesus stand out in a way that would inspire and educate readers.
A Passion for Scripture Distribution
Klopsch was a man of deep faith and conviction. As the editor of Christian Herald magazine, he was committed to spreading the Gospel and making Scripture accessible to all. Through his publication, he distributed over 60,000 Bibles and Testaments annually, but he wanted to do more. He wanted to create a Bible that would draw people closer to Jesus, highlighting the words of the Savior in a way that would make them leap off the page.
The Idea Takes Shape
Klopsch’s inspiration came while reading Jesus’ words in Luke 22:20, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” He envisioned printing these words in red, the color of Christ’s blood, to emphasize their significance. This simple yet powerful idea sparked a revolution in Bible publishing, one that would change the way people engaged with Scripture forever.
Collaboration and Innovation
Klopsch didn’t attempt to produce the red-letter Bible alone. He enlisted the help of distinguished scholars, including college professors from around the world. Together, they worked tirelessly to annotate the text, ensuring that the words of Jesus were accurately identified and highlighted. The result was a groundbreaking edition of the Bible that would meet the needs of students, workers, and seekers of truth everywhere.
A Legacy Endures
The first red-letter New Testament was published in 1899, followed by the complete red-letter Bible two years later. The response was overwhelming, with major publishers like A.J. Holman, Thomas Nelson and Sons, and John C. Winston quickly adding similar editions to their catalogs. Today, red-letter Bibles remain a beloved and enduring part of Christian heritage, a testament to Klopsch’s innovative spirit and passion for sharing the Gospel.
A Lasting Impact
Louis Klopsch’s legacy extends far beyond the red-letter Bible. His commitment to Scripture distribution and education has inspired generations of Christians, from scholars to everyday believers. As we continue to engage with the words of Jesus, highlighted in red, may we remember the pioneering spirit of Klopsch and the profound impact his work has had on our understanding of the Gospel.
Leave a Reply