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

So, what do you think? Are you ready for another Bible?

Ready or not, Thomas Nelson Publishing is going to give us one.

In truth this Bible is new; it is different, and it is special, which is not to say it is better. Indeed, this new Bible doesn't claim to be more accurate, it just says it is easier to understand. That's because rather than translating a Greek word with an English word, the new Bible tries to capture the nuances of the language.

Rather than saying, "Jesus Christ," this new Bible says, "Jesus, the Anointed One." Forget calling Jesus' post-Pentecost disciples, "apostles"; this new Bible renames them "emissaries."

Yes, the world is getting a new Bible, but the ultimate question is will it be a good Bible? That's the question that needs to be asked of every translation of Scripture. Is it good? Is it accurate? Is it spot-on reliable?

Not all translations are spot-on reliable.

That's because every translator sees the Bible in a different way. He uses his filters, his perspectives, and his points of view when he tries to take the original languages of Scripture and convert them into a language you can read. A good translation of the Bible usually happens when we see a great deal of God -- and very little of the translator.

So, who do we see in this new Bible: God or the translator?

Let's take a look: the first verse of John's Gospel, says, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (English Standard Version). The same verse in the new Bible says, "Before time itself was measured, the Voice was speaking. The Voice was and is God."

Wow!

I can't speak for you, but I see a lot of translator and not a lot of God. Now I would not condemn this new translation. The Holy Spirit has managed to accomplish His purpose by using good translations and bad translations. He can do the same here.

That being said, I would urge you to use a translation where the Lord shines clearly and without a translator's filter.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, You have spoken to us through prophets and apostles. May we be given a Scripture that shares those words, which points to our Savior in a simple, understandable and accurate way. This I ask in the Savior's Name. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: 1 Samuel 19    Psalms 23    Psalms 59    Luke 21:1-19

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