What do the Scriptures say?
Verse of the Day
Scripture taken from the New King James Version® (NKJV). Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.
What is the Verse of the Day for?
God will teach us as we meditate on His Word. Thus, the verse of the day will be most helpful to learn from God’s Word. Moreover, a single text can be of more value than reading many chapters and verses of Scripture. Therefore, focus on it throughout the day. And let the Scriptures speak to you and teach you. Study it. Learn it. If you are able, try to memorize it. God’s Word will bring encouragement, joy and peace when our heart is focused on Him. Additionally, read the verses from different versions for a better understanding. Also, you may need to read it in context so that you will receive the full meaning. Then apply God’s Word in your life.
Which Bible translation should be used?
Not all English translations are the same. So, be cautious and selective about which Bible translation to used. Some translations may fail to accurately preserve the Word God. And there are considerable differences between translations.
There are three main types of Bible translations.
- Formal equivalence – (Complete equivalence) is a literal word-for-word translation (NASB, ESV, NET, NKJV, KJV). This type of translation presents a less interpreted translation and is regarded as most accurate.
- Dynamic equivalence – is a thought-for-thought translation (CSB, NIV, NLT). This type of translation tries to explain a series of words to make the point clearer. However, this type of translation is not the best choice because it gives more interpretation to verses.
- Paraphrase – is not a translation (TLB, MSG) but seeks to make the Bible more understandable. Additionally, it usually contains contemporary phrases and metaphors. However, be cautious of a paraphrase because it is more of a retelling or rewording of the Bible than a translation.
Why are verses and words missing from newer translations of the Bibles?
Because it depends on which manuscripts were used for translation. For example, the KJV translation used a Greek manuscript called the “Textus Receptus” for its translation. Since that time there have been newly discovered manuscripts, and between 1629 and 1947 several of the earliest known copies of the Bible were found. These have led to numerous (maybe hundreds) new bible translations since these findings. Furthermore, there is a better understanding of Bible languages. Additionally, word meanings change over time.
There are more than 45 verses in the KJV that are not in the oldest known manuscripts. And therefore, is not based on the best manuscript. But it is important to remember that these verses and variations in question have not change the understanding of God’s Word.
Even so the vast majority of the Bible’s text is the same regardless of manuscript used. Furthermore these verses and variations, that have been removed from newer versions, usually are included as footnotes to clarify the manuscript information.
If I find it hard to understand the Bible, is it because of the Bible translation being used?
Expect to have some challenges with Bible verses since it is part of spiritual growth. And keep in mind that there is very little benefit in hasty reading of the Scriptures without due consideration. Some of these challenges may come from preconceived ideas or from outside influences. But through prayer and the leading of the Holy Spirit God will give wisdom, knowledge and understanding.
