The History Of ISBC
Preserving the Word, Connecting Hearts, Exploring History.
Since 1964, the International Society of Bible Collectors has united scholars and collectors in preserving Bible translations. Scroll down to explore its rich history and impact.
The Founding
1964
The International Society of Bible Collectors was founded by one man who had a deep passion and reverence for the Bible – Dr. Arnold D. Ehlert. It is therefore appropriate to give due credit to the person with the foresight to recognize the need for understanding the lore of Bible collecting.
On May 20, 1964, Dr. Arnold Ehlert met with a small group of people in the lounge of the Rose Memorial building, which houses the Biola College Library located in La Mirada, California and organized the ISBC on a tentative basis. The founding members present were Arnold D. Ehlert, at that time the head librarian at Biola College, Ferdinand J. Wiens, manager of the Biola Book Room, Walter Coslet, Gerald L. Gooden, reference librarian, and William Eberling, assistant professor of doctrine at Biola College (The Bible Collector, Jan/Mar, 1965:1). Walter Coslet, a charter member, drove all the way from Helena, Montana to be at this historic first meeting. Five months later, on October 9, 1964 the organization was made permanent at a public meeting held in the chapel of Talbot Theological Seminary.
Thus began the first society designed to focus on collecting Bible translations and researching the various versions of the Bible. In 1965, the January-March issue of The Bible Collector was the beginning of the society's official publication. The journal first appeared as an 8-page periodical serving as the primary vehicle of communication with its members. The publication enabled Bible collectors to exchange information with each other, and has served collectors, librarians, Bible scholars and book dealers, alike for decades. In this issue, after acknowledging that theology is "the queen of sciences" and that the Bible is "the king of the book world," Dr. Ehlert lamented the fact that, although many organizations deal with Bible translation and distribution, none then existed to explore the thousands of different extant English versions of the Old and New Testament, the primary focus of the new society. When a collector obtains a new version, it is extremely helpful to learn about the version's background, its uses, nuances, pros and cons, and its specific focus and slant, as well as its bias. A society of Bible collectors could help scholars and collectors alike to understand the importance of a specific version as well as the entire field itself.
Early Purpose
1965
Ehlert Biography
1932 - 1953
Arnold Ehlert was raised in a Christian family; his parents Richard and Cora Ehlert were active in their local Methodist church which exposed Arnold to matters of faith. It was during this time that Arnold developed a love for the Bible and the study of it, which would later develop into a deep interest in library science. With a love for books and a deep affection for the Bible, Ehlert pursued a career as a librarian. Mr. Ehlert's undergraduate degree was from John Fletcher College in 1932. He then completed a master's in theology in 1942 from Dallas Theological Seminary, followed by a Doctor of Theology degree from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1945, and he also served as the librarian of that institution from 1942–1948, when he was called to be the Fuller Theological Seminary's librarian. He lastly earned a Master's of Science in Library Science from the University of Southern California in 1953. His first love was always books and libraries, and since 1942 almost his entire career was as a librarian, usually for a theological seminary library or a Christian college library. Among his many professional honors he is listed in "Who's Who in Education" and "Who's Who in Religion." Arnold focused his career on developing college library collections, and this became the source of his interest in Bible translations. In building collections, he soon realized that many different Bibles exist which appear to be different translations which were actually only a different printing of the King James or another common translation. Recognizing the need to accurately catalog Bible translations — and to understand each one's advantages and differences so that they can better be assessed for a college library were part of the genesis behind a society of Bible collectors.
One specific concern for all collectors is the rarity and value of a Bible translation. As Ehlert observed, a good number of translations are relatively rare and exist only in typewritten form or are printed in very small editions. He notes that only 250 copies of Moore's mimeographed New Testament were printed — and when he wrote his article, only slightly over 150 of these were then sold.
Rarity And Value
1965
Journal Scope
1965
During Ehlert's time as editor the society's journal also reviewed new translations, books on Bible translations and even Ph.D. dissertations on Bible translations. Articles have included interesting typographical errors in Bible printings such as the "Owl Bible," and the history behind a specific translation. For example, Benjamin Wilson's Emphatic Diaglot was featured in the April-June, 1965 issue. Although a little known translation, it has served a critical role in the history of American religion. It was in this version that Charles T. Russell, the founder of Jehovah's Witnesses, noted that the Greek word "parousia" was translated as presence instead of coming. This translation was critical in sparking the theory that Christ had returned invisibly in 1874 (the date was later changed by the Watchtower to 1914) which was a critical catalyst in the development of the Jehovah's Witnesses. Without it, the sect may never have formed.
In issue no. 72 of The Bible Collector, Dr. Ehlert posted a simple notice that read: "We intend to terminate the Collector with the Oct.-Dec. issue of 1984 (No. 80 – Editor)." Not only was the journal going to be terminated but it was also implied that the society would be dissolved. Carl Johnson, a recent member, hated the thought of such a valuable journal and organization ending. After a number of months had passed since the notice first appeared in the journal Mr. Johnson decided to contact Dr. Ehlert to see if anyone had volunteered to carry on the work of the journal. Unfortunately, no one had. Though only a member of the society for two years Mr. Johnson realized that if the journal was going to survive he would need to volunteer his services to keep it going. After several discussions with Dr. Ehlert, it was agreed upon that Mr. Johnson would take over as the second Editor of the society's journal. So after serving 20 years as the editor-in-chief and producing 80 issues of the journal, Dr. Ehlert stepped down as chief editor but continued on as Book Review Editor.
Dr. Ehlert remained active in publishing articles and editing book reviews until his declining vision forced his retirement in working with the journal, his last issue was at the end of 1986 (Vol. 2, No. 4). Among the many articles he wrote was a bibliography of the King James Bible (No. 13), and an article on a rare multi-lingual Bible (No. 76). Because of his health problems and poor eyesight Dr. Ehlert turned over his position as Book Review Editor to Rev. Gerald Studer. In 1998 at the age of 88 Dr. Ehlert passed away, just nine days after the death of his beloved wife of 64 years, Thelma Amanda (Adolphs) Ehlert.
Ehlert Retirement
1984
Johnson Editorship
1985
In 1985, Carl Johnson of Oak Creek, Wisconsin took over the society's journal as its second Editor. It was at this time that the name of the journal was changed (by the request of Dr. Arnold Ehlert) to Bible Collectors' World. Though not a seasoned editor like Dr. Ehlert, Mr. Johnson stepped into his new role with over 20 years of experience in the publishing and printing field, which helped serve the society well as he not only edited the journal but also printed it for the next eight years. One of the goals accomplished by the new editor was to improve the overall quality of the society's journal. This was done by increasing the content and expanding the page count, usually between 20 to 32 pages, along with improving the quality of the paper and cover. Another important addition to the journal was the inclusion of advertisement from businesses that catered to the specific interests of the Bible collector.
By 1992, Mr. Johnson found himself overextended in his commitments and struggled to keep the journal on schedule which led him to pass on the position of editor to someone else. After consulting with the executive committee, President Studer asked Mr. William E. Paul of Seattle, Washington to become the publication's third editor.
By the end of 1987 Dr. Ehlert realized that because of his declining health it was also now necessary to pass on the mantle of leadership to someone new. In January of 1988, the Rev. Gerald Studer, of Lansdale, Pennsylvania the Vice-President of the society became the second president in the organization's history. Rev. Studer was pastor of Plains Mennonite Church, and stepped right in without missing a beat.
Studer Leadership
1988
Studer Biography
1965 to 1976
A prolific writer, Rev. Studer has published numerous articles in nearly a dozen publications as well as contributing to The Bible Collector and Bible Collectors' World in the capacity of Associate Editor and book reviewer. Among his published works are: A Theology of Servanthood (1965), Christopher Dock, Colonial Schoolmaster (1967), and After Death, What? (1976).
Rev. Studer received a B.A. degree from Goshen College in 1949 and additional degrees from Goshen Biblical Seminary (ThB, 1950; BD, 1957; MDiv, 1971). During his lengthy and distinguished ministerial career, Studer also served as first President of the North America Mennonite Youth Fellowship (1947-1950), and was a member of the Mennonite Publication Board (1956-1959, 1965-1968, and 1993-2001). He was a member of the General Mennonite Board, which served the entire North American Mennonite Church (1971-1973). He also was a member of the Mennonite Historical and Research Committee (1960-1971).
Collecting Bibles since a teenager Rev. Studer's collection grew to more than 5500 volumes, which he eventually donated to his alma mater, the Associated Biblical Seminary in Elkhart, Indiana, after his retirement from the pastorate.
During his tenure as President, Rev. Studer made many contributions to the society, but probably the most significant of these were the establishment of the society's annual conventions. These conventions allowed fellow members and collectors for the first time to meet and interact with each other on a personal basis. In addition to meeting each other, members could now discuss face to face those things of interests they had, and could now sell and swap Bibles and other items with each other. A special benefit of these conventions were the unique opportunity members had to hear world class Bible scholars lecture on some aspect of Bible translation work, such men as: Dr. Bruce Metzger, Dr. Daniel Wallace, Dr. Donald Brake, Dr. Paul Wegner, Dr. Ronald Youngblood, Dr. Kenneth Barker and many others.
These conventions also allowed its members to visit some of the more impressive Bible collections in the country, such as: the Museum of the Bible, the Dunham Bible Museum, the Bible Collection at the Library of Congress and many others. Since holding the first convention in Greenwood (Indianapolis), Indiana in 1991 the ISBC has held annual conventions all across the country since then.
Studer Contributions
1991
Paul Editorship
1992
In 1992, Evangelist William E. Paul, of Seattle, Washington assumed the responsibilities of editor of the society's journal, Bible Collectors' World. Mr. Paul is a graduate of Midwestern School of Evangelism, Ottumwa, Iowa, B.S.L. (1955), BTh. (1977) and M.S.L (1978). He was ordained a minister by the Union Park Church of Christ, Orlando, Florida (July 2, 1967) and subsequently held located preaching ministries in Orlando, Florida (1954-1967), North Platte, Nebraska (1968-1970), Denver, Colorado (1970-1978) and Seattle, Washington (1978-2001). He has also been active in conducting revival meetings and teaching in camps, rallies and seminars in twenty-three states as well as taking short-term mission trips to the Bahamas (1957-1960) and Jamaica (2000).
Mr. Paul has also served as a Bible college professor in Gering, Nebraska (1967-1970), Denver, Colorado (1970-1975) and Seattle, Washington (1978-2000). He managed Christian youth camps in Florida and Colorado, and has also served on the steering committees for youth and family camps.
His literary work began in 1955, when he founded and edited the religious periodical News and Truths. This was published continuously, changing its name to Impact for Christ in 1970, until 1981. Besides writing articles for numerous periodicals, Mr. Paul has authored twenty-three books and booklets, including a New Testament version titled, An Understandable Version (1995) and English Language Bible Translators (2003).
Having begun collecting Bibles in 1947, Mr. Paul became a member of the International Society of Bible Collectors in 1968. He has written and lectured on English Bible translations and conducted public Bible displays in several states, as well as writing numerous articles for the society's journal.
During his tenure as chief editor many improvements have been incorporated into the journal. One of the first noticeable changes made was the use of photos of translators with accompanying feature articles. And probably the most popular change Mr. Paul made was the introduction of a feature called "Bible Info-Lines," which consists of brief, miscellaneous items of interest about Bible editions and versions. This feature became so popular that it was published as a 96-page paperback book, reproducing the 440 "Bible Info-Lines" items that appeared in the journal from 1992 until 2002.
Two other major changes began with the 2000 issue. First, and probably the most important, was the change of the journal's name. With the January-March 2000 issue the new name became, Bible Editions & Versions, which the editor believed better reflected the interests of those who acquire copies of various editions and versions of the Bible. Mr. Paul stated that "in the course of interaction with our members over the years, one significant factor has repeatedly surfaced. And that is that there are many persons who own collections of several dozens of Bibles who do not consider themselves to be 'collectors,' as such. To these, the acquisition of Bibles of various kinds and for a variety of purposes is somehow denigrated by the use of the term 'collector.' In the minds of some, that designation places the sacred writings in the same category as stamps, baseball cards, or other 'collectibles.' In fact, just the opposite is true. The membership of the ISBC consists of scholars, translators, librarians, theologians, and curators as well as many ministers, Bible students and avid Bible readers. These people hold the Bible in the very highest regard and make every effort to elevate its status and importance among all people. However, because of a misconception fostered by the term 'collector' many who would benefit from membership in our Society and from receiving its journal, are 'turned off' and are disinclined to join. We consider this to be regrettable and feel the need to correct that misconception." And so the name was changed to reflect a broader spectrum of those who treasure the Bible.
Second, the journal took a major leap forward with its overall quality. The journal was now printed on glossy stock that not only improved its appearance but also the quality of the product, both of which would enhance its appeal to the reader.
Journal Changes
2000
Website Launch
2001
In 2001 the International Society of Bible Collectors entered into the technology age when Mr. Kevin Krall, an ISBC member for many years, volunteered to develop a website for our organization. The website www.biblecollectors.org became a place where people could go and get basic information about the organization along with current information about upcoming conventions. This was a big step for the society and it helped to get the word out to the general public about the organization.
After serving faithfully as President for 14 years, Rev. Studer decided it was time to step down and so he formally announced his resignation as President during the business portion of the meeting of the September 13-14, 2002 annual convention in Atlanta, Georgia. It was during this meeting that Mr. Michael Morgan was then announced as the new President, but due to unforeseen circumstances, and subsequent deliberation by the ISBC executive committee, the committee accepted the tendered resignation of Michael Morgan as President on the last day of the convention. Rev. Gerald Studer agreed to serve as interim President until a replacement could be found.
Leadership Transition
2002
Johnson Presidency
2002
In November 2002, Carl V. Johnson, a member of ISBC since 1981 and former editor of the society's journal, was elected by the Executive Committee to the position of President, becoming its third President. Mr. Johnson has been a lifelong student of the Bible and has collected Bibles for study and comparison since a teenager. Over the years he has also written a number of articles for the society's journal often focusing on the society's history. Mr. Johnson has been active in a variety of ministries over the years and is currently a Lay Pastor/Elder at Anchor Bible Church, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. From 1988-2020 he has also served in Israel-related ministries.
As President, Mr. Johnson has focused on ways that will help further the growth and progress of the society. First, early on after becoming president, Mr. Johnson with the valuable help of the Executive Committee, pushed toward the need to become a non-profit organization. With this status, financial contributions as well as donations of Bible collections, research papers, and miscellaneous Bible items may be given to the society which will help strengthen its future. Second, he also established three unique awards that highlight the accomplishments of individuals or institutions in the areas of Bible history, Bible translation, or Bible collection. Third, the society's web-site in 2026 underwent a major change that will allow individuals access to new and larger amounts of information which our organization has generated. And lastly, he has committed himself to the growth of the society, this he believes can be accomplished by the newly revised web-site, promotional mailings, and advertising our organization in specific focused publications.
In 2011 at the age of 83 and after 18 years as chief editor, Mr. Paul decided the time had finally come to turn over his responsibilities to his very capable associate editor Dr. Michael Kuykendall. Dr. Kuykendall came to his new assignment highly qualified as a former pastor and later as a professor at Gateway Seminary for 25 years. His background is broad. He has written half a dozen books and over 50 articles and book reviews along with being the editor of two other journals. Dr. Kuykendall has also been involved with various organizations over the years, such as: Baptist History and Heritage Society, Evangelical Theological Society, Fellowship of Baptist Historians, International Society of Bible Collectors, and Northwest Baptist Historical Society (president, since 2007).
Kuykendall Editorship
2011
A New Journal
2014
With a recommendation from Dr. Kuykendall the Executive Board decided in 2014 to change our publication from a quarterly journal to a bi-annual one, and with it came a name change to the Bible Review Journal. With these new changes Dr. Kuykendall commented that "The (new name) allows us to broaden our scope and include more information, articles, and parallel interests than only Bible editions and versions. Nevertheless, Bible versions and collecting Bibles remains a major focus of our journal."
Beyond the name change and becoming a bi-annual publication, The Bible Review Journal also has featured a new look, these include: color photos and a new typeface and layout which gave the journal more of a professional look. In addition to these changes the journal also expanded its page count from 32 to 84 or more, giving its readers greater information and pleasure.
As we look backward, the ISBC is extremely thankful for the foundation that Dr. Arnold Ehlert established when he founded the organization. But we are also thankful for the many people who played a part in building up the society over the years. As we look forward to the future we can only imagine what the Lord has in store for this organization. May our society continue to press forward with the original principles it was established on: to preserve, to research, to study, and to promote the most amazing book ever published – the Bible!