Which Bible Version Should I Use

Which Bible Version Should I Use? Which Is The Best?

I get asked that question quite often, especially by people who are just getting into studying the Scriptures. While I have my own preferred translations, let me try as unbiased as possible to answer that.

First, translations are just that. They are the work of copying the Scripture from the original languages in which it was written into the language of the reader. The Bible has been translated into more languages than any other book. In fact, many cultures which did not have a written language now have one due to Bible translators such a Wickliffe, who work in a particular culture and help them develop a written language. The first books printed in the new language are the Scriptures.

The old saying, "Something is lost in the translation." applies ... in a limited way ... to any translation of the Scriptures. It is very difficult to express the full range of meaning when translating from one language to another.

This in no way implies that the Scriptures as we have them leave out anything. But the full impact of the various words sometimes just does not come through. For instance, the Greek word "koine" is translated "charity" in the KJV and "love" in most modern translations. Neither word fully expresses what is meant by the original Greek word.

Some groups feel the King James Version (KJV) is the only "true" translation, while others go so far as to say it is the only "inspired" translation and that all others are works of evil. This same attitude was expressed by the Puritans about the KJV when it was first published, since they used the Geneva Bible which pre-dated the KJV by quite a few years.

For a short history of the King James Version CLICK HERE. (opens in a new window)

For those just starting out on the quest to study the Holy Scriptures, I would suggest getting several different versions of the Bible. The New American Standard Version, the New International Version, the Amplified Bible and the New English Bible are good ones to start out with. I would also suggest getting a couple paraphrases such as the Living Bible and the J.B. Phillips to help round out your library.

Copy the study HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE and go through the lessons. Note especially the section on "Bible Study Tools".

When used in conjunction with a KJV and your concordance, the study of the Scriptures can become a full, rich experience. As you explore God's Word you learn more of Him and His ways.

So, which should you use? You will have to read a number of translations and decide. I use the KJV having grown up on it. I love the old translation, but I recognize that it has it's limitations. I use a number of other translations to help better understand what is being said in the Scriptures. As you study, read, and come to know God's Word you will find yourself using one as your "main" Bible.

Knowing and understanding God's Word is the work of a lifetime. There is no end to His Word. It is eternal and unchanging. As you give yourself to reading, studying, and prayer look to Him, the Author .... Jesus, the Eternal Word of God.

Pastor Jim