Counsels on Christian Worldview

Counsel #5 — Bible Versions

Picture: Counsel #5 — Bible Versions CCW 7.1

Bible translators choose how formal or readable their translation will be. Formal translations render sentences as close to the original language as possible. Formal translations include NASB, ESV, KJV, and NKJV. The opposite of these are paraphrases, which prioritize readability but may not always accurately reflect the original languages (TCW, MSG). In-between these opposites are thought-for-thought translations. These translate each thought to correspond with the original languages (NRSV, NIV). While the most effective version is the one you consistently read, selecting a formal translation ensures accuracy.^[5] The NKJV and ESV are formal and readable. Why not start there? CCW 7.2

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV CCW 7.3

“The Bible is not given to us in grand superhuman language. Jesus, in order to reach man where he is, took humanity. The Bible must be given in the language of men. Everything that is human is imperfect. Different meanings are expressed by the same word; there is not one word for each distinct idea. The Bible was given for practical purposes.” Ellen White in Letters and Manuscripts, Volume 4, Ms 24, 1886, par. 6 CCW 7.4

Reflect: Compare the readability between translations of John 3:16 HERE,^[6] or pick some other passages to compare. CCW 7.5