What Bible do you use?

[Chimon]

Out of curiosity, I would like to know what Bible you guys and girls use. In addition to the translation, do you have a study bible, what kind? Why do you use the translation/Bible that you do? Do you feel like it meets your needs when studying the Bible?

For a long time, I've used the NASB MacArthur Study Bible (http://www.amazon.com/NASB-MacArthur-Study-Bible-Black/dp/0529122510), but recently, I've been more impressed with the ESV. I use them because of the high accuracy of the translation and the clear readability. I like MacArthur's background notes, but he pushes his theological bias a little more than necessary.

I am really excited for the ESV Study Bible (http://www.esvstudybible.org/). The ESV is now my translation of choice, and Wayne Grudem and J. I. Packer editted the study notes, so I expect really high quality stuff. Also, the ESV is owned by a not for profit company, which I respect. They give away electronic versions of their translation for free, and allow it to be cited without royalties.

[Literalist-Luke]

TNIV Study Bible - my all-time favorite, even though it's not perfect. (It's just less imperfect than the others. :D )

[the inside out]

I use a NIV study bible. If I could find an NASB or an ESV study bible, I'd be happy!

[lilybetweenthorns]

I use the KJV. Sometimes I use the NKJV, but it's usually KJV

[ƒσяєяυииєя]

I use the KJV. Sometimes I use the NKJV, but it's usually KJV


Same here ;D


__________________
Peace, and so forth

http://img112.imageshack.us/img112/5459/natureavyty7.jpg
http://img112.imageshack.us/img112/3020/lifesigyyt9.gif

[jesusfreak123]

I use NCV. I love it. It's really easy to understand.

[Kelly12345]

I use NLT. I like it.

[Vhayes]

NASB here, although I do read passages in several other translations when studying.
V

[TRL1957]

I use the parallel bible. Each page has the KJV and the NIV. It's great for comparing scriptures! Helps me out a lot.

[scourge39]

Please change the listings to RSV/NRSV and NIV/TNIV. I use them all and they're related updates of the same translations, just like KJV/NKJV. Thanks!

[Friend of Jesus]

I use the Good News Bible (although I want an NIV), and I also use a Message Bible for private use.

[Xel'Naga]

Only the 'good' translations ;)
NASB, ESV, NRSV

[dirtball]

Project Peter gave me a HCSB when we went to Tennessee this summer. It is what I use and the only thing I can see that is different between translations it different wording. The HCSB seems to have simpler words to understand in it.

[Chimon]

Please change the listings to RSV/NRSV and NIV/TNIV. I use them all and they're related updates of the same translations, just like KJV/NKJV. Thanks!

I don't think I am able to do that scourge. I would if I could!

[Ayala]

4 versions, primarily.

NKJV, NLT, ESV, and NASB. Though, I enjoy reading through many different translations to compare.

[EaglesWINGS911]

NIV Study Bible, NKJV Study Bible, Prophecy KJV bible and Joyce Meyer Amplified Bible...yeah I have a lot of Bibles! lol

[Levin]

I use mostly the ESV, was raised under the NIV, I really like the NASB, especially for studying Paul's letters.

I'm really looking into the NLT as I start to understand the importance of narrative flow in the theology of the OT and the gospels.

Now I'm working out of the Nestle-Aland 27th ed. (UBS 4th ed.) Greek text as I'm working on exegesis and translation. I'd highly recommend it.

I've been using J.B. Phillips translation in Modern English (actually a paraphrase) a little bit; I need to get used to the British English.

As much as I appreciate the language of the KJV (it is a beautiful literary document) I'd rather not study it as I would other translations, especially in the more technical sections of teaching and epistlary literature. This is mainly due to the poor quality and selection of the texts it was translated from and the reality that the meaning of English words has changed quite a bit since it's translation.

Reflecting,
Levin

[Tbone]

I've used the NKJV since I was saved, but recently switched to the KJV.

[Veretax]

For a long time, I've used the NASB MacArthur Study Bible (http://www.amazon.com/NASB-MacArthur-Study-Bible-Black/dp/0529122510), but recently, I've been more impressed with the ESV. I use them because of the high accuracy of the translation and the clear readability. I like MacArthur's background notes, but he pushes his theological bias a little more than necessary.



I use an NKJV Version of Mac's Study Bible, and the notes are very good, thought provoking and filled with nuggets and references Id have to dig for elsewhere. The first bible I ever read was a worn out KJV in elementary school. I wasn't a solid reader back then, so my parents started me out with an NIV (It also happened to be the version our church used at the time) when I went to college and was gifted my NKJV New Geneva Study Bible I had matured so much in reading, that going back to the NIV just wasn't going to happen. I found the NIV to be very plain, and the english pretty pale by comparison. I've got nothing against the old KJV, but my opinion is that each person has to decide which version they can get the most meat out of.

As it happens, I recently left a church (and this issue was part of the reason why), because they were so hyper legalistic about the old KJV that I just couldn't fellowship with them in good Conscience. Its not that the KJV is bad, its a good (if dated) translation, but in my mind this a bit like when Paul talked about eating food that had been offered to idols. If you believe is a sin to use another version, then it is, however, we should also be careful not to use it as a potential stumbling block to our fellow believers. But let us remember that the origional manuscript were not written in English.

[Marc2x]

I mainly use the KJV and New Testament Recovery Version because it has lots of footnotes that are explained very well.

[feiyie]

I used to use King James Version but now I use New King James. I also used NIV for quite a while.

[jh099]

I have an NASB, an NIV, and a KJV. The NASB is my primary one.

[jlmccub2009]

I have a precious moments kjv bible :D haha. I also have a tniv, and use niv at church (when I forget to bring mine). I don't really have a problem understanding the different versions, but I use my tniv more than my kjv.

[ShardikSon]

I like the poetry from the 17th century English of KJV, but I read a lot of NIV, HCSB, and AMP, as well as the YLT and Wycliffe, just to get a feel for the language and intent of the authors.

[JesusMySavior]

I used to think there was no difference until I really started reading my pocket Bible throughout the day. It was given to me by the Gideon foundation. Every time I opened it up I was hit so hard with God's Word and man it became addicting to me. I suddenly had a passion for the Word that I had never had before.

Then I realized it was the NKJV. I did some studying into it and now I realize that there is a difference and though I won't go into detail, I'll just say that I like KJV and NKJV the best ;)

Though I do like the NLT as well for a different insight, I guess, if you could call it that.

[Tbone]

I've used the NKJV since I was saved, but recently switched to the KJV.

Ooops, my bad. :eek: I should have added that I use the NASB'95 also for study because of it's literalness.

[WalkingInFaith]

I began with KJV and then bought the NKJV with references and really like the way it's written. I also have an Amplified Version, but my daily reading of the Word is NKJV.

[immortality]

"Zondervan NIV Study Bible"

[abidinglife]

Hmm, i have a Student NIV Bible primarily with notes by Philip YAncey which are not useful at all. But i actually read most of my Bible on the computer which would be King James, it makes me feel smart...! haha, nah i like the language it is spoken in.

[liefm]

Biblegateway website mainly for studying the word:
In the passage look-up i use in columns; ESV, YLT, DARBY, AMP, MSG.
ESV for readability and accuracy, YLT & DARBY for word-for-word translation,
AMP for exposition, and MSG for the jist.
Personal bible: ESV literary study bible, NIV study bible, and a small NASB pocket bible with proverbs and psalms.

[danielh41]

I used a Thompson Chain Reference NIV for 24 years until I went on a Bible buying fringe over the last two months. I now have an inexpensive NLT Bible that I am reading straight through from beginning to end, just to give myself a good overall picture of the Bible as a whole before going into my own independent in-depth study. I also have a thinline ESV and a brand new ESV Study Bible. I'll be using both of them in Bible study classes and in a brief morning devotional that my wife and I have started doing together. I love my ESV Study Bible so far, but it is really big and bulky. I anticipate using it as my main Bible for many years to come.

[JesusIsLord82]

For the most part I use the NASB but I have looked at the Douay-Rheims Bible a couple of times and find it very useful too :)

[Biastai]

I plan on reading as many versions as I can. For now, the NIV is the one I go to most.

[xspinningisfun]

I use The Message and Amplified and NIV :]

[TRL1957]

I use the NIV/KJV Parallel Bible.

[Cara Lott]

When I was little I used a NKJV Precious Moments Bible because my family uses NKJV. However, by 3rd grade my Bible had fallen apart, so I needed a new one. The school I was enrolled in at the time used KJV, so I decided to get one for my classes. I've been using the same Bible and translation ever since. I have read a few other translations (versions), but I prefer KJV for the beauty of the language and the imagry and effect produced by the choice of words. The same verse in King James can sound completely different in another translation, especially the ones that use more modern speech (such as NIV). Also, unlike a lot of my friends, I don't usually find it hard to understand (though that could be because I grew up on it).

No, I don't use a study Bible. I have nothing against study Bibles, and I have thought of buying one, but I think my personal study time should be filled with what the Lord reveals to me and not just what someone else got from the passage.

[greenrangerx]

I mainly use the King James Version, and I keep an NIV handy in case a word or a verse doesn't make sense to me in the KJV.

[RedBird777]

I have an amazing Bible: Today's Parallel Bible. It has:


NIV
KJV
NASB
NLT

And All of the verses are on the same page, so it is very easy to study rather than going back and forth from bible to bible. It is very interesting to see 4 different translations on the same verse.

[SammeyDW]

NLT for 'just reading'.

But my study Bible is a NASB.

[Ixthus]

I use the NKJV or my Koine Greek New Testament. On occasion I use the Septuagint (Greek translation of the Old Testament) as well

[SnakeWesker]

I have a regular King James that my mom bought me, but I don't use it anymore because it is sort of hard to read (not so much for me, but when I work with troubled kids in the area and I have to read out of it). My church uses ESV, which I like, but at home, I bought myself an NIV (which is what I voted for) because Borders had a nice looking leather bound one. Both the ESV and NIV are easy enough to understand, so I like those ones.

Friend of Jesus actually mentioned the Good News Bible, which my church used to use. I have a copy of that, too. I'm surprised someone else uses that one!

[Izdaari]

I own many bibles, and I use most of them.

My favorite translations are: ESV, HCSB, TNIV and NLT, pretty much in that order of preference. I also use NIV, NRSV, NASB, NAB and NKJV, and like them well enough that if any of them had to serve as my sole bible, I'd have no complaints.

I like The Message for what it is, a paraphrase, but as such I consider it more of a commentary than a real bible. I don't have a problem with Rev. Eugene H. Peterson, as I consider him both a sound pastor and a sound bible scholar, but it is still just his own interpretation. I own an unusual parallel bible, NASB and The Message. I think that's a great combo, a very literal translation and a good paraphrase, side by side.

I own a KJV for completeness of collection and for comparison, but I really don't care for the translation at all, as I find the archaic English distracting and annoying. I can understand it well enough, with a little effort, but the extra effort shouldn't be required.

My favorite study editions are: The ESV Study Bible, The TNIV Study Bible, The Archaeological Study Bible (NIV), The Apologetics Study Bible (HCSB), The Reformation Study Bible (ESV), The Catholic Study Bible (NAB), The Access Bible (NRSV) (that seems to be essentially a student edition of the New Oxford Annotated Bible) and Jack Hayford's New Spirit-Filled Life Study Bible (NKJV).

I also own a MacArthur Study Bible (NASB, personal size), and value it mainly for ease of carry and the translation. Though I respect MacArthur's scholarship, his YEC, literalist, fundamentalist, cessationist PoV is just wrong to my way of thinking. (I'm Pentecostal, and quite conservative on the basics, but with some "emerging church" and liberal tendencies.)

My favorite handy carry editions are ESV and HCSB. In particular, I own a compact large print HCSB with a bright blue cover, and a translucent plastic case it slides into. That's my go everywhere bible. It's very small, yet easy enough to read. It looks good, and is well protected in a backpack or purse. For true pocket size, to slip into my jeans or shorts, I have a tiny ESV New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs.

[lacy+chk]

currently the NIV, but i'm not sure i'm totally happy with it

[catholicdude]

Right now I have the Douay-Rheims Bible. I use it because I believe it is the most accurate english translation, if I could read Latin I would move to the Latin Vulgate because I think that is the most accurate translation in any other language except the original Greek. I also use the D-R version as a study Bible because it came with a commentary by Father George L. Haydock. The language is, sometimes, hard to understand, but i'm usually ok. I would really like to get an Ignatius Study Bible (ISB) but it isn't finished yet. I think they have most of the New Testament done, or all of it, I'm not completely sure.

Pax,
Zach

[Psalms Fan]

I use a NIV study bible. If I could find an NASB or an ESV study bible, I'd be happy!


NASB MacArthur Study Bible (http://www.amazon.com/NASB-MacArthur-Study-Bible-Black/dp/0529122510)

ESV Study Bible (http://www.esvstudybible.org/)

You ought to be able to find either of these at any decent christian book store.


My favorite translations are: ESV, HCSB, TNIV and NLT, pretty much in that order of preference.


I'm sort of on par with Izzy, but I'd insert the NASB between the ESV and HCSB. I've never cracked open a TNIV, but in my own order of preference the NIV comes right after the HCSB (I'll have to give the TNIV a look). And the NLT comes after that.

ESV -> NASB -> HCSB -> NIV -> NLT

[Izdaari]

You ought to be able to find either of these at any decent christian book store.
Aye, but if you're not YEC, Fundamentalist, Dispensationalist and Cessationist with strong Calvinist leanings, you're likely to find the MacArthur off-putting. I own one and I would recommend it if you can live with that, but I bought it in spite of MacArthur's views, not because of them.

I do like the NASB, especially after the 1995 update. I don't find it difficult reading, though for my taste the ESV flows a little smoother.

The Life Application Study Bible and the Scofield Study Bible III are available in NASB.

I'm sort of on par with Izzy, but I'd insert the NASB between the ESV and HCSB. I've never cracked open a TNIV, but in my own order of preference the NIV comes right after the HCSB (I'll have to give the TNIV a look). And the NLT comes after that.

ESV -> NASB -> HCSB -> NIV -> NLT
The TNIV reads almost identically to the NIV. It's slightly more gender-neutral, but that doesn't matter to me one way or the other. The reason I prefer it is that the TNIV employs more up to date scholarship than the NIV. That's because Zondervan gets lots of flak every time they try to revise the NIV, which has an entrenched evangelical constituency, so they've pretty much given up. Instead, they keep the TNIV up to date.

[Psalms Fan]

Aye, but if you're not YEC, Fundamentalist, Dispensationalist and Cessationist with strong Calvinist leanings, you're likely to find the MacArthur off-putting.

YEC...no
Fundy...no
Dispy...no
Cessationis...no
Calvinist...no

I don't own a MacArthur study bible, and probably never will. Yet it's out there, and most people in the evangelical world fall under one or more of those descriptions that you named, so a lot of people might like it.

[FoG]

I use the parallel KJV/NIV, but I am really wanting to get an ESV study bible. Whatever I use has to be large print so I can see it!

[sheina maidle]

I use the KJV alone, not the NKJV. So I voted "Other"

[technotask]

i use Non-English bible.....

[shepherdsword]

I use the classic old Scofield KJV,The Ryrie NASV and the one volume Hebrew/Greek interlinear. This has changed from a few weeks ago and It will probably change again in a year or two if the Lord tarries and I am not called home.

[lwfc]

My Bible is an ESV.

[AlanR742]

I only use the King James Bible, simply because other "translations" are KJV rewrites (hence hebrews 11:1 keeps talking about "faith is the SUBSTANCE hoped for" instead of translating hupostasis to CHRIST (person) like in Hebrews 1:3 - because hupostasis in Hebrews 1:3 refers to CHRIST and not "substance").

For more info see Brainout's Lordpages that explain about Hebrews 11:1 - http://www.geocities.com/brainout1/Heb111.htm (this is a Christian website, concerns advanced theological studies).

King James Bible gets most translating correct - other translations fall far behind, and even moreso since they just rewrite the KJV in a different way which is 99% incorrect.
Some bibles get extra points for translating "cleanse" to "purify" in 1 John 1:9, but they didn't correct CONFESS to NAME! You must realize the Church under Elizabeth and James' reforms were still stepping out of Catholicism (King James has excellent theological writings - mixes well with KJV studying).

[Xel'Naga]

I only use the King James Bible, simply because other "translations" are KJV rewrites (hence hebrews 11:1 keeps talking about "faith is the SUBSTANCE hoped for" instead of translating hupostasis to CHRIST (person) like in Hebrews 1:3 - because hupostasis in Hebrews 1:3 refers to CHRIST and not "substance").

Not all other translations are "rewrites" of the King James Version.

[Psalms Fan]

Not all other translations are "rewrites" of the King James Version.

Only a handful of them are: ASV/RV, RSV, NRSV, ESV, NASB, WEB, NKJV, MKJV.

The ASV/RV, NKJV and MKJV (I might be mistaken about that one, but I think I'm right) are direct revisions of the KJV.

The RSV, NASB and WEB are revisions of the ASV.

the NRSV and ESV are revisions of the RSV.

All the rest are brand new translations.

[AlanR742]

Only a handful of them are: ASV/RV, RSV, NRSV, ESV, NASB, WEB, NKJV, MKJV.

The ASV/RV, NKJV and MKJV (I might be mistaken about that one, but I think I'm right) are direct revisions of the KJV.

The RSV, NASB and WEB are revisions of the ASV.

the NRSV and ESV are revisions of the RSV.

All the rest are brand new translations.

Nope. ALL translations suffer from the same mistranslations. The NIV carries the mistranslations of the King James... and waters everything down. Just read Brainout's link I posted above.

Okay, here we can see the NIV carrying a KJV mistranslation:

Hebrews 1:2 (NIV) - but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe.
Hebrews 1:2 (KJV) - Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;


The Greek word being used here is "aion" (ahee-ohn), it means TIME!!! The NIV writers simply reworded "worlds" to "universe" - how humorous is THAT? It seems as if they didn't even use any Greek texts - why should they when they can crack open a few King James Bibles and rewrite them?

Again I repeat: ALL translations carry the KJV mistranslations.

[Psalms Fan]

The word "aion" isn't limited in definition to "time". If so, how would it be distinguished from "chronos"? It can also carry the idea of the spatial and not just the temporal. So the word "world" is not an incorrect translation, it just depends on what we mean by "world". For even in English the word "world" can have different meanings depending on how it's being used. It can be used to denote the physical universe. It can be used to denote a group of people living in a particular time period.

Even if the KJV has a "mistranslation" (and I'm not a huge supporter of the KJV) and most other translations have that same "mistranslation", that doesn't mean that every translation is "based on" the KJV. The only translations based on the KJV are those which are revisions of the KJV, or revisions of those revisions. Even if the NIV translates something the same way the KJV translates something, that doesn't mean the NIV is based on the KJV, for the NIV did not use a previous translation as a starting point, like those in the KJV family did.

[shepherdsword]

I am sticking with the NASB and the complete interlinear for awhile. I just bought a new Ryrie in the NAS version and I will stick with it until I read it through. Then I will switch to the trusty ole scofield.

[Joshua2415]

Out of curiosity, I would like to know what Bible you guys and girls use. In addition to the translation, do you have a study bible, what kind? Why do you use the translation/Bible that you do? Do you feel like it meets your needs when studying the Bible?

For a long time, I've used the NASB MacArthur Study Bible (http://www.amazon.com/NASB-MacArthur-Study-Bible-Black/dp/0529122510), but recently, I've been more impressed with the ESV. I use them because of the high accuracy of the translation and the clear readability. I like MacArthur's background notes, but he pushes his theological bias a little more than necessary.

I am really excited for the ESV Study Bible (http://www.esvstudybible.org/). The ESV is now my translation of choice, and Wayne Grudem and J. I. Packer editted the study notes, so I expect really high quality stuff. Also, the ESV is owned by a not for profit company, which I respect. They give away electronic versions of their translation for free, and allow it to be cited without royalties.

I also use the NASB MacArthur study bible and I received the new ESV study bible as a gift a couple months ago. Both are good tools for me to use. Whenever preaching I use the KJV. If I had to pick I would say the NASB is my favorite

[God-Gave-R+R-2-U]

My main Sword is published by Tyndale Publishing and is simply titled as THE BOOK. I absolutely love it and am on fire for the Lord each and every time I read it to others in Hospitals, Bible studies, Neighborhoods, Schools as well as my own personal time celebrated with our Lord Jesus Christ. My life has only gotten better and my faith continues to get stronger all because of THE BOOK and my unending love for Jesus Christ.

Check it out, dear brothers and sisters!:hug:

http://www.tyndale.com/products/biblesref/details.asp?isbn=978-0-8423-3284-2 (http://www.tyndale.com/products/biblesref/details.asp?isbn=978-0-8423-3284-2)

http://files.tyndale.com/thpdata/images--covers/500%20h/978-0-8423-3284-2.jpg

[Izdaari]

The Book is NLT. That's one of the translations I like. It's not my top choice for study, but I like it very much for general reading.

[shepherdsword]

I like the more scholarly versions when I read but the NLT is my favorite one to listen to. I put on the NLT DVD and listen to it all night while I am sleeping as opposed to leaving the TV on all night(or day when I'm working the night shift). You can get it here :
http://www.biblesondvd.com/cat_new.cfm

However,they want $30 for it now. I would wait until they have a special. I got mine for $9.99. It is really awesome to .listen to. I also have the NIV and KJV on DVD as well but they can't compare to the NLT for sheer listening enjoyment. When they play the gospels and I'm half asleep it's like the Lord is speaking directly to me. It's awesome.

[God-Gave-R+R-2-U]

The Book is NLT. That's one of the translations I like. It's not my top choice for study, but I like it very much for general reading.
Yeah, it's quite a great book although I've also read King James versions quite a bit, but most of the time I'll be taking THE BOOK with me rather than the other King James versions. THE BOOK is highly recommended, brothers and sisters.;)

[Izdaari]

I just picked up a new NLT today, a personal size reference edition in burgundy bonded leather. It was quite a deal, $36.99 retail, on sale for $10.00. I expect I'll use it a lot, as it's small and handy to carry, but big enough to have a very readable text size. I used to have an even smaller NLT compact edition, but the text was too small for me to read comfortably, so I gave it away to a friend with better eyes.

[Kirby123]

I read a "the message" Bible, but for any serious bible studying i will read a NIV. People believe that the message is a bad translation and it doesn't get Gods word across, but seriously, if you look at many books, especially in the book of Mark, the bible is written in very common speech. Paul was a scholar but even he toned down some of his writings to acommodate every christian from the nobels to the homeless. The message is written in common speech. it has alot of:
he said this
then he said "..."
then he said back to him "..."
then she screamed at the top of her lungs "..."

it doesn't give very powerful words. but i would say that it does get the point across for daily bible reading. especially when your struggling like me

[catholicdude]

Ok, please ignore my last post. I've basically fallen in love with the New Jerusalem Bible, I've always disliked that the D-R is a double translation, although I'm not exactly sure if the NJB is or not. Oh well, I like it anyway. Which translations do you guys think have the most "inclusive" language?

Pax,
Zach

[Izdaari]

Ok, please ignore my last post. I've basically fallen in love with the New Jerusalem Bible, I've always disliked that the D-R is a double translation, although I'm not exactly sure if the NJB is or not. Oh well, I like it anyway. Which translations do you guys think have the most "inclusive" language?

Pax,
Zach
I'd like to add a NJB to my collection. I've heard lots of good things about it, including that J.R.R. Tolkien was one of the translators.

So far as what has the most inclusive language? Hmm. I've heard the NRSV and the TNIV criticized for being too inclusive, but I don't see the problem. I like them both, with the TNIV being one of my top three favorites (along with the ESV and HCSB).

[Izdaari]

I read a "the message" Bible, but for any serious bible studying i will read a NIV. People believe that the message is a bad translation and it doesn't get Gods word across, but seriously, if you look at many books, especially in the book of Mark, the bible is written in very common speech. Paul was a scholar but even he toned down some of his writings to acommodate every christian from the nobels to the homeless. The message is written in common speech. it has alot of:
he said this
then he said "..."
then he said back to him "..."
then she screamed at the top of her lungs "..."

it doesn't give very powerful words. but i would say that it does get the point across for daily bible reading. especially when your struggling like me
I like The Message very much for casual reading. It's not a bad translation, but a good paraphrase, essentially the Bible as retold by Rev. Eugene H. Peterson. I respect Peterson as a Bible scholar and as a pastor, and I find he usually has a pretty reasonable take on things, so that works for me. But it's not the Bible, it's Peterson's take on the Bible, which makes it more like a commentary.

If I use it in study, I use it in the form of my NASB/Message parallel Bible. That's such a useful idea: one of the most literal translations and a total paraphrase side-by-side for easy comparison! I love it! :pp

[catholicdude]

So far as what has the most inclusive language? Hmm. I've heard the NRSV and the TNIV criticized for being too inclusive, but I don't see the problem. I like them both, with the TNIV being one of my top three favorites (along with the ESV and HCSB).

Ok, I know it seems like I knew what inclusive language was, but I don't. I've just heard a lot about it and wanted to get an opinion of other people to see which translations I should avoid, could you tell me what inclusive language is? Thanks!

Pax,
Zach

[Izdaari]

Ok, I know it seems like I knew what inclusive language was, but I don't. I've just heard a lot about it and wanted to get an opinion of other people to see which translations I should avoid, could you tell me what inclusive language is? Thanks!

Pax,
Zach
They mean gender inclusive. That is, whenever a reference is gender ambiguous the translators will say "men and women" rather than just "men". For example, some of the NT books refer to "the brethren", that is, the believers, the Christ-followers. The literal wording is "brothers", but it seems clear that it was meant to include both male and female believers. An 'inclusive' translation will override the literal wording and go with the fairly clear intent, perhaps translating it as "brothers and sisters". That seems pretty uncontroversial to me, just common sense. It's not a problem to me one way or the other. If they do it, it makes sense to me. And if they don't, I know what was meant anyway.

[Izdaari]

I've just added a new study bible to my collection, an Old Scofield (1917) Reference Bible. It's KJV, a translation I don't normally favor, but it's compact and handy to carry for a study bible, without resorting to a tiny font as some others do in their personal size editions. Scofield's notes seem very insightful. And it was just too pretty and too beautifully made to resist. Oxford is the publisher, and they do great work.

[shepherdsword]

I just bought a genuine leather 1917 Scofield . It will be my main bible a little later on. I will read it through after I am through reading my NAS Ryrie study bible I just bought as well. I used the Dakes for years. I have since outgrown it. He is a bit of a racist and he has some really wild ideas.

[Izdaari]

I have a new favorite handy carry bible: my Cambridge ESV Pitt Minion (http://www.bibledesignblog.com/2008/10/i-picked-up-my.html) in brown goatskin arrived yesterday, and it's beautiful! It's small and thin, and fits easily in a purse, book bag or backpack.

For as small as the print is, it's surprisingly easy to read, since it's printed nice and dark on good paper, and with a good font and layout. It opens flat and the cover is very flexible. And because it's Smythe-sewn and bound in high quality leather, it should be very durable.

There are only two drawbacks:


It's smaller, and with smaller print, than I like for a general purpose bible.
It was on the expensive side, the most I've ever paid for a bible. Still, it was money well spent.

[PilgrimPastor]

In sermon preparation I use primarily a Large Print Thompson Chain Reference Study Bible in the NIV. This is what I have in my hands as I deliver the sermon each week as well.

Now, I also use E-Sword & Quickverse Bible Study Software and regularly check the Scofeild Study Bible notes in the ESV, the NIV Study Bible Notes, the King James Study Bible (Most contributors were my profs at Liberty Seminary), and I am a huge fan of the NET Bible and its outstanding notes from the translation committee.

Its important, I would suggest to check with more than one translation if you are serious about study of God's Word. Use one highly "literal" translation like the KJV, NKJV, or NASB, then a "dynamic equivalence translation" for a best of readability & accuracy like the NIV, NET, or ESV and then also reffer often to a more modern langague translation like the NLT or GNB.

If you can't afford to own these in print then get the free E-Sword software and you can get most of that (or others like them) for free.

If you are using just one Bible though, I would recommend NIV or ESV.

If you are a fan of Bible leather and binding like me, then check out some of the new ESV Bibles on the market. I have the calf skin ESV in brown and it is wonderful! After owning it for a few years, the leather even still smells like leather! Beautiful.

[Raptor]

Personally, I still enjoy the good old King James Version. Beautiful and yet simple in wording. However, I do enjoy reading the 1611 Version as well.

-Raptor, out.

[PilgrimPastor]

Personally, I still enjoy the good old King James Version. Beautiful and yet simple in wording. However, I do enjoy reading the 1611 Version as well.

-Raptor, out.

The King James is the best for new membership services, ordinations, baptisms, funerals, the beauty of the massage as captured by the language of the King James Scholars is unsurpassed; it is an excellent translation as well.

[fuzzi]

The King James is the best for new membership services, ordinations, baptisms, funerals, the beauty of the massage as captured by the language of the King James Scholars is unsurpassed; it is an excellent translation as well.
I have a question for you.

If the King James is so great, why don't you use it for preparing your sermons?

I'm just wondering.

[Izdaari]

In sermon preparation I use primarily a Large Print Thompson Chain Reference Study Bible in the NIV. This is what I have in my hands as I deliver the sermon each week as well.

Now, I also use E-Sword & Quickverse Bible Study Software and regularly check the Scofeild Study Bible notes in the ESV, the NIV Study Bible Notes, the King James Study Bible (Most contributors were my profs at Liberty Seminary), and I am a huge fan of the NET Bible and its outstanding notes from the translation committee.

Its important, I would suggest to check with more than one translation if you are serious about study of God's Word. Use one highly "literal" translation like the KJV, NKJV, or NASB, then a "dynamic equivalence translation" for a best of readability & accuracy like the NIV, NET, or ESV and then also reffer often to a more modern langague translation like the NLT or GNB.

If you can't afford to own these in print then get the free E-Sword software and you can get most of that (or others like them) for free.

If you are using just one Bible though, I would recommend NIV or ESV.

If you are a fan of Bible leather and binding like me, then check out some of the new ESV Bibles on the market. I have the calf skin ESV in brown and it is wonderful! After owning it for a few years, the leather even still smells like leather! Beautiful.
I disagree with calling the ESV a dynamic-equivalent translation. The translator's notes describe it as "essentially literal". As I understand, it's one of the most literal translations on the market, less literal than the NASB, but more literal than the KJV or NKJV.

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/Izdaari/arrow_pic.jpg

(graph courtesy of evangelicalbibles.com)

[BrckBrln]

I have a new favorite handy carry bible: my Cambridge ESV Pitt Minion (http://www.bibledesignblog.com/2008/10/i-picked-up-my.html) in brown goatskin arrived yesterday, and it's beautiful! It's small and thin, and fits easily in a purse, book bag or backpack.

For as small as the print is, it's surprisingly easy to read, since it's printed nice and dark on good paper, and with a good font and layout. It opens flat and the cover is very flexible. And because it's Smythe-sewn and bound in high quality leather, it should be very durable.

There are only two drawbacks:


It's smaller, and with smaller print, than I like for a general purpose bible.
It was on the expensive side, the most I've ever paid for a bible. Still, it was money well spent.



I soooo want a Cambridge ESV Pitt Minion Bible. I might have to get the imitation leather one, though, because it's the cheapest.

[Izdaari]

I soooo want a Cambridge ESV Pitt Minion Bible. I might have to get the imitation leather one, though, because it's the cheapest.
I could've gone for the burgundy French Morocco (which is almost more red than burgundy). That's quite attractive and less expensive than the goatskin. I don't think I could've settled for the imitation leather. Though I normally like good imitation leather, the tan and burgundy two-tone is (IMO) just not good looking.

[BrckBrln]

I could've gone for the burgundy French Morocco (which is almost more red than burgundy). That's quite attractive and less expensive than the goatskin. I don't think I could've settled for the imitation leather. Though I normally like good imitation leather, the tan and burgundy two-tone is (IMO) just not good looking.


I agree the imitation leather isn't the most attractive, but I like it because it's different. And the French Morocco is only 14 dollars cheaper than the goatskins, so you might as well go all out and get one of them. I just know I want one of them.

[PilgrimPastor]

I have a question for you.

If the King James is so great, why don't you use it for preparing your sermons?

I'm just wondering.

Is that sarcasm from a KJO'er or is it a real question?

[PilgrimPastor]

I disagree with calling the ESV a dynamic-equivalent translation. The translator's notes describe it as "essentially literal". As I understand, it's one of the most literal translations on the market, less literal than the NASB, but more literal than the KJV or NKJV.

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/Izdaari/arrow_pic.jpg

(graph courtesy of evangelicalbibles.com)

I know that is how it is being marketed but I am of the impression in many cases the translators went with more dynamic usage; as a philosophy of translation though, it is rather literal. I love the ESV...

[fuzzi]

Is that sarcasm from a KJO'er or is it a real question?
It was a sincere question.

[Prufrock]

I "use" about 23 English translations, plus occasional faltering, fumbling forays into the Spanish Valera Bible. I believe the 1769 King James Bible, which is different from the 1611 edition only in minor orthographic and typographical changes.

Since you asked, I mean.

[TrophyofGrace]

I prefer my KJV as my regular reader. I was saved through the NASB though and once in a while I read a chapter or two from the French Louis Segond 1910.

[PilgrimPastor]

It was a sincere question.

I've found the NIV to be a very "user friendly" Bible for reading in the Church on Sunday mornings and for Bible Study. It is a reliable translation and on a practical note, it is the version that was recently purchased for the pews that I serve as Pastor! I used to be pretty hard on the translation until I devoted myself to its use, not I really enjoy using it.

I use lots of translations in study though. The truth is that there is not such thing as a literal translation. EVERY translation is to some extent a "trans-literal" an equivalence. Culture and context determine meaning in Hebrew, though Greek is more easily translated into English.

[fuzzi]

I've found the NIV to be a very "user friendly" Bible for reading in the Church on Sunday mornings and for Bible Study. It is a reliable translation and on a practical note, it is the version that was recently purchased for the pews that I serve as Pastor! I used to be pretty hard on the translation until I devoted myself to its use, not I really enjoy using it.
Thank you for answering. I was just wondering, and I mean this sincerely, why if you thought the KJB was great for some aspects of worship, why it wasn't great for preparing your sermons. That's all.

I once went to a church that had NIVs as 'pew bibles', but my current church doesn't supply Bibles, we all bring our own. There's less confusion that way.

[Prufrock]

I prefer my KJV as my regular reader. I was saved through the NASB though and once in a while I read a chapter or two from the French Louis Segond 1910.
I was saved through whatever version was quoted in "The Four Spiritual Laws" - - - after a two-year period of brave and relentless witnessing by a girl who refused to be scared by my teenaged arrogance and skepticism. But I was "discipled" using the NASV, which had just been published in both Testaments. I did not come to the King James until thirteen years had passed.

[PilgrimPastor]

Thank you for answering. I was just wondering, and I mean this sincerely, why if you thought the KJB was great for some aspects of worship, why it wasn't great for preparing your sermons. That's all.

I once went to a church that had NIVs as 'pew bibles', but my current church doesn't supply Bibles, we all bring our own. There's less confusion that way.


That is a great quote by Spurgeon. Indeed, the "translation wars" have caused much division and a lot of the constant translation committee business, I am compelled to believe, is driven by commercialism, ego, and outright attempts to make a translation that better "suits" a certain perspective theologically...

The HCSB comes to mind... also the NET Bible, even though I love the NET translator notes, to have a committee made up of almost entirely Southern Baptists (HCSB) or to have only a schools graduates or profs in on a translation (Dallas Seminary with the NET) seems a little bit lopsided to me... even if I happen to agree with the NET translators in almost every fashion... ;)

[Izdaari]

I once went to a church that had NIVs as 'pew bibles', but my current church doesn't supply Bibles, we all bring our own. There's less confusion that way.
My church (Assemblies of God) has NIV pew bibles, but it seems like nearly everybody brings their own anyway, in whatever translation they like. I usually bring an ESV or a TNIV.

[mcnumps]

Zondervan NIV Study Bible is the one I mainly use since I got saved, but I also like the NKJV.

[PilgrimPastor]

My church (Assemblies of God) has NIV pew bibles, but it seems like nearly everybody brings their own anyway, in whatever translation they like. I usually bring an ESV or a TNIV.


Our pew Bibles don't get a ton of use, but I see people using them occasionally. One particular Sunday I was so excited as I began to read the Scripture before my sermon because I thought that the ENTIRE congregation was going to follow along with me as I read the Scripture... it turned out that I had skipped over a hymn and because the Pew Bibles and the Hymn Books are both RED I assumed the wrong thing! ... :bible:

I realized my mistake later after every other person told me how much they would have liked to "tell the story..." (I love to tell the story of Jesus and His love was the hymn...) :rolleyes:

[Cleo]

I use a NIV study Bible.

[fuzzi]

Our pew Bibles don't get a ton of use, but I see people using them occasionally. One particular Sunday I was so excited as I began to read the Scripture before my sermon because I thought that the ENTIRE congregation was going to follow along with me as I read the Scripture... it turned out that I had skipped over a hymn and because the Pew Bibles and the Hymn Books are both RED I assumed the wrong thing! ... :bible:

I realized my mistake later after every other person told me how much they would have liked to "tell the story..." (I love to tell the story of Jesus and His love was the hymn...) :rolleyes:
Some don't follow along? What a shame.

I've been in churches where the pastor begins with "If you have your Bible with you, turn to...", but in our little church, the pastor knows that everyone does have their Bible with them. It's a given that we all will follow along, and I'm sure a blessing to him. :)

[-SEEKING-]

I love reading many translations, but my bible of choice these days, for studying, is the ESV Study Bible.

[ShortStuff]

I use KJV...tried NKJV one time...went back to KJV..

[TengAiHui]

I use the NIV because it's easier to read and because it's commonly used.

[Stan777]

Got saved 9 months ago. Used the NIV till about a month ago, then went to KJV. Gets kinda hard to read sometimes so I plan on getting ESV now.

[BadDog]

I use and like em all.

BD

[JWayne]

My personal preference is the NKJV. Mine is the "Extreme Word" which has so many study tools which relate to life as it is today.

I also like to read several versions so to get a deeper meaning.

[Sojourner]

I wished you had separated KJV and NKJV; KJV for me.

[DARKastheRAIN]

I use the Message as a reading bible, but I keep a New King James version on hand incase I run into something I want to cross referance to be sure I'm getting close enough to the real story. The Message is a paraphrase after all.

I want to learn Greek so I can read the original. That would be cool.

[Sissymarie]

KJV for me! Once in a great while I'll refer to another version during study. ;)

[BadDog]

I wished you had separated KJV and NKJV; KJV for me.Just curious: why do you prefer the KJV since they are very close, and are based on the same Greek and Hebrew manuscripts? (Not trying to turn this into a KJV-only discussion... just interested in your thinking.)

Thx,

BD

[The Mighty Sword]

KJV-Tyndale-NIV.

[KATMAN]

I use a NIV right now,because that is what my pastor uses. I have different translations such as KJV,NKJV,NLT.