Bible Translations - crazyJCgirl.com

Bible Translations


This article is part of a short series called Bible Basics.

Previous Post: History of the Bible

Next Post: Wanna Know God?

As stated in my previous article (History of the Bible), the first widely accepted English translation of the Bible is the KJV – the King James Version. Over time, several English translations have been completed for various reasons, mostly for modern-day lingo and ease-of-use. After reading from several translations of the Bible, I’m generally OK with most – the meaning behind the scriptures is still there. However, that is my opinion.

There are many people who believe that the KJV of the Bible is the ONLY acceptable translation of the Bible that should be read. I see their point of view and acknowledge their concerns. However, from my point-of-view, any translation that someone will actually read, and hopefully further study, is fine with me.

To start the process, check to see which Bible version your local church or study group uses. This will make it easier to follow along when reading scripture in a group setting. Another useful tool is an online Bible website like BibleGateway.com. Pick a verse (such as Philippians 4:4-7) and read it using several translations. Some translations which are popular:

  • KJV – King James Version
  • NIV – New International Version
  • NASB – New American Standard Bible
  • ESV – English Standard Version
  • HCSB – Holman Christian Standard Bible
  • NRSV – New Revised Standard Version

Which translation do you like best? Pick one and go buy a Bible if you don’t already own one. There is something about having an actual book in your hands vs. reading off the Internet that I simply don’t know how to explain. If you can’t afford a Bible, check thrift stores, used bookstores, churches, and hotels. The Gideons place Bibles in hotel rooms – And, YES they expect some to be taken which they will periodically replace.

Bible Recommendations

My mom goes on-&-on about why Bible print is Sooo SMALL. (I think we really know what the problem is.) However, when you sit down to read or study your Bible a lot, you really do appreciate LARGE print. Think about reading a children’s book with Big Print – it definitely feels as if you’re reading faster. So I guess Mom really does have a point.

In a later article, I will talk about why READING your Bible is DIFFERENT from STUDYING your Bible. In fact, you may want 2 separate Bibles for these purposes. Here are a few recommendations – just click on the picture and it will take you to Amazon for further information.

This post may contain affiliate links. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

If you are looking for children’s Bibles, here are the ones I used growing up:

Preschool+

Kindergarten+

Grade 3+

Grade 4/5+

If you’re looking for a cheap ($3.99-$5.99), paperback Bible with Large Print here are a few recommendations. My Mom & I both have a copy of these that we can mark-up and easily destroy without feeling guilty. They really are nice for tons of reading, but have no margins for notes.

If you’re looking for a journaling / notetaking Bible here are some recommendations. Both my Mom & I have the NIV Journal the Word Bible (different colors), which has plenty of room for notes.

This post may contain affiliate links. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

Hillsong ~ Your Word