Navigating Translations: Finding The Right Bible For A Teenager
One of the funniest encounters I have ever had happened at a Bible bookstore. I was in the store picking up some Bibles for our high school graduates and casually talking with the salesperson about youth ministry when an older lady behind me loudly asked, "Hey, you're a youth pastor; which of these Bibles will help my 13-year-old grandson?!" I turned around, and to my surprise, there was a lady with an AC/DC shirt holding up three different Bibles that were all KJV. All the stereotypes flooded my mind when I decided that this lady needed some brutal honesty that she wasn't ready to hear, but I don't have to answer her senior pastor, so I'll speak my truth and see where it goes. I told her that, in my experience, if she wanted to purchase a Bible that her grandson would read, it should be one he could readily understand. She couldn't believe that a youth pastor of all people would recommend any Bible that was not the King James Version. She quickly dismissed my advice and paid for her grandson's brand-new King James Bible that hopefully went to a young man with a deep understanding of old English.
I realize that a particular group of people love the King James Version, and I am not here to tear that Bible down. Millions of people have come to know Jesus Christ through this beautiful translation, and I am so thankful for that. It is not, however, the only accurate translation of the Bible.
If you are trapped believing that the King James Version is the only reliable translation, let me lovingly encourage you to shake off some of that legalism and enjoy the grace and love that the Holy Spirit brings. If you feel free in your relationship with Jesus and enjoy, understand, and comprehend reading your KJV Bible, then by all means, keep reading it, but don't force that on other people, especially young people who are searching for God. I remember, as a junior in high school, standing in a popular Christian bookstore that had just opened in my small town, picking up a copy of the New Living Translation Bible, and right there in the aisle, the first glimmer of my love for scripture happened when I read and understood clearly what I was reading. That Bible would change my life and transform my perspective of God.
I know that at this point, some might think, "Man, this guy must be some liberal theologian who has no respect for the Bible." That's not true; I have a deep passion and fear for communicating the gospel as accurately as possible. I also know that Jesus recruited ordinary people who spoke in an ordinary dialect. If Jesus were around today, He would recruit people who talked in modern language. The Bible was never intended to be something ordinary people couldn't understand or comprehend.
So now that we have established our motivations, let's ask, "What makes a Bible translation a good one?" Excellent question! Determining the accuracy of modern Bible translations involves considering several key factors. These translations are crafted by teams of scholars who are experts in biblical languages, textual criticism, and translation theory. They rigorously examine ancient manuscripts and linguistic data. Understanding the translation philosophy and textual basis of a version is essential. Peer review, endorsements, and reader feedback provide further insights into a translation's reliability. Comparing it with other versions and consulting experts helps assess consistency with the original languages. Ultimately, judgments on accuracy rely on a combination of scholarly expertise and fidelity to the original texts.
Now, let's focus on some fantastic translations of the Bible that will enhance a young person's (or any person's) understanding of Jesus Christ!
1) The New Living Translation
As I said before, the New Living Translation (NLT) unlocked the Bible for me. Because of this, our youth ministry gives a brand new copy of the NLT Bible to every new student who comes through our doors on a Wednesday night. The New Living Translation of the Bible emerged in 1996 as a modern English translation project aimed at presenting the biblical message in clear and understandable language while remaining faithful to the original texts. Through rigorous translation efforts, incorporating feedback from scholars and readers, the NLT quickly gained popularity for its accessibility and readability. Over the years, it has undergone revisions and updates to enhance accuracy and relevance, resulting in various editions tailored to different needs. Widely accepted across Christian denominations, the NLT continues to impact individuals and congregations alike, serving as a vital tool for personal study, devotion, and public worship while contributing to the ongoing mission of making the Bible accessible to contemporary audiences.
2) The English Standard Version
Another excellent option is the English Standard Version. The English Standard Version (ESV) of the Bible emerged in the early 2000s as a translation endeavor rooted in a commitment to accuracy, readability, and fidelity to the original texts. With its publication in 2001 (New Testament) and 2007 (complete Bible), the ESV garnered widespread acclaim for its balance between literalness and readability, quickly becoming a preferred choice for personal study and public worship across Christian denominations. Continual revisions and adaptations have ensured its relevance and accuracy, while various editions and formats cater to diverse reader preferences. Endorsed by theologians and embraced by churches globally, the ESV is a trusted resource, impacting countless individuals and communities as they engage with the Word of God in contemporary English.
3) The New International Version
Don't forget about the New International Version. The New International Version (NIV) of the Bible, originating in the 1960s, stands as one of the most influential modern English translations. It was crafted by a diverse committee of scholars aiming for accuracy and readability, resulting in its widespread acceptance upon its complete publication in 1978. Over time, the NIV has undergone revisions to enhance precision and clarity, maintaining its relevance amidst changes in biblical scholarship and language usage. The NIV is available in various editions and formats and caters to a broad range of readers, and its global impact extends across cultures and languages. Despite the emergence of other translations, the NIV remains a beloved choice for personal study, worship, and evangelism, continuing to shape the faith and practice of millions worldwide.
4) The New English Translation
The New English Translation (NET) emerged in the late 1990s with a groundbreaking mission: to provide a new English translation of the Bible accompanied by extensive translator notes, all freely available online. Spearheaded by Biblical Studies Press, a diverse team of scholars collaborated to create a translation balancing accuracy, readability, and transparency. In 2005, the first edition debuted online, featuring over 60,000 detailed translator notes, offering unprecedented insight into the translation process and textual nuances. Since then, the NET Bible has undergone continual revision, incorporating feedback to enhance clarity and precision. Initially an online resource, it was published in print editions, reaching academic, church, and personal study settings worldwide. Renowned for its thoroughness and accessibility, the NET Bible significantly contributes to biblical understanding and interpretation, serving scholars, pastors, and lay readers alike.
A Final Thought…
These three translations are certainly not alone when it comes to excellent Bible options. Some other great options to consider and research are the CSB, NKJV, NASB, and I'm sure the list goes on. The best piece of advice I can give you about which Bible to purchase is to buy one that you, or whoever the person you're buying the Bible for, will read. If you can't understand what you're reading, there is a good chance you won't read it for long. Finding a Bible that is accurate and faithful to the original text and that is easily understood will unlock a new understanding of God, who He is, and who you are.
