which translation is the best?
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I have heard the nasb is because it is the most literal. Meaning word for word. I got that one when I heard a radio preacher say they were convinced that it was. He is 82 years old with plenty of experience with doctrine and a well respected source. But people get alot out of comparing scriptures from different version to get a greater meaning out of something if you don't understand something, because some will word it in a way that gives a better meaning. Now Get ready for a HUGE argument in here concerning the KJV.
ESV is the most modern word for word translation. But because it tries to stay close to the original languages, it can be a bit more wooden.
Holman's Christian Standard Bible is also quite modern, but a little bit more flowing than the ESV. I had a study HCSB I was reading, but just didn't feel quite comfortable, even though I have read it before, and I went back to my ESV. Most of the pastors I know use ESV.
NIV is a good translation but much more dynamic than the more word for word translations. I've read it a few times and it was ok, but I do prefer something a bit less fluid. NIV is a bit more thought for thought, meaning that it reads well in English. My husband uses it, and he takes away a very solid theology from it.
I would advise against The Message. I read it from time to time, when I want a different perspective. I am in a private Bible study on FB with a lot of pastors, missionaries, and seminary profs. Most have Masters or doctorate degrees, and they often use the Message. But most of us know the Bible well, so we take what is good, and throw out the bad.
I also would suggest you start with at the New Testament first. Preferably John, followed by Matthew, Mark and Luke. Then hit the rest of the New Testament. Add the Psalms, which are my personal favourites. Then go to Genesis, read the narratives. The prophets, starting with Isaiah are interesting, but can be a challenge. Jeremiah, for example is known as the "weeping prophet" for good reason. Ezekiel is not in chronological order, and some of the visions are just weird. The same goes for Revelation in the NT. A lot of symbolism, and needing to understand who John was writing to.
Happy reading!
Holman's Christian Standard Bible is also quite modern, but a little bit more flowing than the ESV. I had a study HCSB I was reading, but just didn't feel quite comfortable, even though I have read it before, and I went back to my ESV. Most of the pastors I know use ESV.
NIV is a good translation but much more dynamic than the more word for word translations. I've read it a few times and it was ok, but I do prefer something a bit less fluid. NIV is a bit more thought for thought, meaning that it reads well in English. My husband uses it, and he takes away a very solid theology from it.
I would advise against The Message. I read it from time to time, when I want a different perspective. I am in a private Bible study on FB with a lot of pastors, missionaries, and seminary profs. Most have Masters or doctorate degrees, and they often use the Message. But most of us know the Bible well, so we take what is good, and throw out the bad.
I also would suggest you start with at the New Testament first. Preferably John, followed by Matthew, Mark and Luke. Then hit the rest of the New Testament. Add the Psalms, which are my personal favourites. Then go to Genesis, read the narratives. The prophets, starting with Isaiah are interesting, but can be a challenge. Jeremiah, for example is known as the "weeping prophet" for good reason. Ezekiel is not in chronological order, and some of the visions are just weird. The same goes for Revelation in the NT. A lot of symbolism, and needing to understand who John was writing to.
Happy reading!
I use the NASB but in the past read a lot of the KJV but the old English used in that version has some words that have different meanings to us in 2016 then it did in 1611 when it was translated.
The one that you actually can read is the best pick until you want something else....the word of God in all word for word type versions is alive and will speak to you about how much our Lord Jesus loves you and all that He has already done for you....enjoy!
The one that you actually can read is the best pick until you want something else....the word of God in all word for word type versions is alive and will speak to you about how much our Lord Jesus loves you and all that He has already done for you....enjoy!
S
Truly change can be hard...
We all know this
Until recently, I had read nothing...nothing at all but KJV
There was an emotional attachment of sorts
It got me saved...it was my pillow at times lol
Many tears were shed on my KJV over the years, as well as joy in song.
But my college student daughter...who is taught many truths at her bible club at the University
Well...she assured me ESV was good
Truth is truth
But I tell you....lol at first my daughter had to nearly pry the KJV from my tight grip of my hands
But I do enjoy ESV NIV and KJV
So.....
I'm no scholar
I'm just gettin saved here lolol
We all know this
Until recently, I had read nothing...nothing at all but KJV
There was an emotional attachment of sorts
It got me saved...it was my pillow at times lol
Many tears were shed on my KJV over the years, as well as joy in song.
But my college student daughter...who is taught many truths at her bible club at the University
Well...she assured me ESV was good
Truth is truth
But I tell you....lol at first my daughter had to nearly pry the KJV from my tight grip of my hands
But I do enjoy ESV NIV and KJV
So.....
I'm no scholar
I'm just gettin saved here lolol
