What Is the Difference Between a Red Letter and Black Letter Bible?

The Hidden Feature That Changes How You Read Scripture

Open a Bible and flip to the Gospels. Notice something? Some words are in black. Others are in red. But why?

This isn’t a design choice. It’s a deliberate decision rooted in how we engage with the words of Jesus. The difference between a red letter and black letter Bible isn’t just about ink. It’s about emphasis, clarity, and how you connect with the voice of Christ.

Let’s explore the difference—and why it might matter more than you think.

What Is a Red Letter Bible?

In a Red Letter Bible, the words spoken by Jesus are printed in red ink. This includes passages in the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), but sometimes also includes Acts and Revelation if Jesus is speaking.

The red letters make it easy to spot Jesus’ direct words, helping readers focus on his teachings, conversations, and responses.

Where Did This Idea Come From?

The Red Letter Bible was first introduced in 1899 by Louis Klopsch, a Christian publisher in New York. Inspired by Jesus’ words in Luke 22:20 (“This cup is the new covenant in my blood”), Klopsch decided red—the colour of sacrifice—should be used for Christ’s own words. It caught on quickly.

Today, many Bibles offer red letter editions across nearly every translation, including the NIV, ESV, KJV, CSB, and more.

What Is a Black Letter Bible?

A Black Letter Bible prints all text—including Jesus’ words—in standard black ink. This creates a visually uniform page, without any colour-coded emphasis.

Why choose a black letter edition?

Some readers prefer the consistency. Others feel it helps them see Jesus’ words in context, rather than isolating them. For those studying the whole of Scripture as a unified narrative, a black letter format can keep their focus on the broader message.

Which Should You Choose?

If you’re a visual learner who finds colour helps with memory or focus, a red letter Bible might be a great fit. You’ll quickly recognise where Jesus is speaking, and it can bring his voice to the forefront of your reading.

If you prefer immersive, contextual study, or you want to avoid creating a visual hierarchy in Scripture, a black letter edition may serve you better. After all, every word of Scripture is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16).

There’s no “right” choice. It depends on how you read, study, and engage with the Word.

Quick Comparison

The red letters can inspire. The black letters can ground you. Both draw you deeper into Scripture.

If you’re buying a Bible and unsure which to choose, think about how you read. What draws your attention? What helps you understand and reflect?

At Eden, we offer both red letter and black letter editions across translations, sizes, and formats. Whether you want Jesus’ words to shine brightly in red, or you prefer the steady flow of black letter text, there’s a Bible that’s just right for you.

Explore our full range of Bibles and find the edition that fits your faith journey best.