06. Which version of the Bible should I read?

Key Verses / Passage

All scripture is breathed out by inspiration of God and is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

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Discussion

I’m sure you’ve seen or heard about lots of different versions of the Bible. I’m not talking about languages here, just the number of different translations in English is dizzying. And they don’t “read” the same.

The Bible was written by 40 authors, across 3 continents, in multiple languages over a 1500-year timespan. None of the languages were English, so there’s room for some confusion in the translations.

It might help to think of the various translations from ancient languages into English as a sliding scale. To the left is the most literal or word-for-word translations, sliding to the right is a balance between literal and readable and then to readable. On the far right of readability are “Paraphrases” which are quite readable but due to the risk of interpretive freedom can significantly alter the original text’s meaning. A Paraphrase of the Bible is not a translation - they’re more like a re-imagining.

The choice of the best translation to read depends entirely upon your purpose.   For deep study select a version on the far left. For daily devotionals then slide to the middle columns crossing an ESV or NIV. For new believers then the NIV or the NLT are fine. Readability allows you to comprehend quickly what is on the page. Deep study or research is for when you want to get into the nitty-gritty, because sometimes it is confusing.

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Reflection / Questions

•     As a new believer, you were probably given a Bible at a church, or outreach. Check which version it is.

•     If not, then may we suggest obtaining either an ESV or NIV Bible and move on from there.

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Prayer

Father in Heaven, please guide me to read your word in a version that you know I will read and understand. Please lead me to read in a way that teaches me who you are. Please Lord Jesus, guide my reading.