What Bible Version Should I Use?

We live in a time in which the Bible is easily available. There are over 80 million Bibles printed each year, there are a plethora of Bible apps on our phones and tablets, and there are even companies who will pass out Bibles for free. Without a doubt, unlike the centuries gone by, today the Bible is at the fingertips of many men. However, because this is the case, there are also a substantial number of Bible versions to choose from. In fact, in the English language alone, there are over 900 versions of God’s Word found online and in bookstores. Which leads us to ask the question, “Which Bible version should I use?” To answer that question, let us consider a few things.

When deciding what Bible version to use, first we need to consider the version’s accuracy. In Matthew 4:4 Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” Brethren and friends, our very life is found in the Word of God, and because that is true, we would be foolish to choose a version of the Bible that is not accurate to the original language. So, how do we pick a version that is accurate? A version’s accuracy can easily be determined by the translation philosophy that was used when the Bible was put together. The first of these two philosophies is known as dynamic equivalence. This means the text is paraphrased and considered to be thought for thought. Many of the modern versions like the NIV, or the NLT use this approach because they want the Bible to be in their words, “easier to read.” The other translation philosophy is known as formal or complete equivalence. This means the translators did a word for word translation, and the text is more literal to the original language; even if the version is not “easier to read.” After examining both of these translation philosophies, it is quite clear, the most accurate Bible versions are those which use formal equivalence. Some common versions that fall into that category would be the KJV, NKJV, ASV, and NASB.

Second, as we think about which Bible version to use, we need to consider readability. In Acts 8:30 Philip asked the Ethiopian Eunuch, “Do you understand what you are reading?” Certainly, as individuals who desire to read God’s Word the way He intended it, accuracy is of the utmost importance. However, there is also something to be said about choosing a version that  can easily be understood.

Finally, when considering which Bible version to use, it would be wise to think about commonality. What version do most of the members use at Lake Country? When you study with a co-worker or friend, what version are they likely to have? What version do you hear in the Bible classes and sermons you listen to? There is nothing wrong with using a less common version, however, there are some benefits that come from using a version most of us are familiar with.

Which Bible version should I use? While there is technically no “right” answer to that question, we would be wise to find a version that is accurate to the original language, easy to understand, and common amongst the people in our lives.