Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Different Bible versions

People generally have a favorite Bible version. Your preference is usually based on whichever was mostly used during your formative years. In no way will I declare one version to be superior to any other, although I also have my own favorite. Due to its rhyme and meter, I prefer the King James. I am very aware, though, that the English language has changed greatly in the many hundreds of years since it was commissioned by King James (hence the name). For simplicity of explanation, I prefer The Living Bible. As it is a "thought by thought" translation, sometimes it doesn't seem to hold the power of the expression quite as well as some of the others. I list here some of the English language Bibles. This list is, by no means, complete. I have also been trying to learn to use the Greek language versions, with very limited success. If you prefer a different language or version, use it. If you are a beginner, I recommend either the NLT or TLB. They make the reading simpler.

ASV = American Standard Version (or just Standard version)

DAR (or DMT) = Darby's Modern Translation

DRV (or DRC) = Douay Rheims (Catholic)

KJV = King James Version (often called the "Authorized" version)

NKJ = New King James

NLT = New Living Translation

NRS = New Revised Standard

RSV = Revised Standard Version

TLB = The Living Bible

WET = Webster's Translation of 1611

WEB = World English Bible

YLT = Young's Literal Translation

The important thing is that you devote some time to Bible study. There are quite a few "One Year" Bibles, that are arranged in such a manner that you work you way through the entire Bible in just a few minutes every day. When you get to something that really grabs your interest, get your favorite Bible out and start reviewing.

Once you start getting into the Word. you will be amazed at how often God will give you a little "boost" to get your mind working along His path. Carry a small New Testament with you, at all times, if you can. An occasional minute, here and there...

It really is an investment in YOUR future!

No comments: