Continous Discipleship - Versions of the Bible

Prayer: We know God that the story of creation, covenant, and salvation are contained in the Bible yet ink on paper can not contain you. Help us see the Word written and the Word alive in Jesus Christ.  Amen.
 
Unless you read the original languages that the Bible was written in, then what you are reading is a translation or paraphrasing. That is one reason that the learning of the ancient languages by the clergy is important to the Presbyterian Church (USA).

The Old Testament was written in Hebrew and the New Testament in Greek.

Biblical translation can be done word by word (formal equivalence) or can be done to convey the thoughts (dynamic equivalence). Some versions take the meaning and put into wording independent of the original wording (paraphrasing).

All forms of translation can not help but include some interpretation in the translation process. Children’s Bibles are almost always an interpretation of the Bible while putting it into a story that children can understand. It is helpful, where possible, to know the perspective of the translators because that can be reflected in the translation.

The Reformers were intent on putting the Word of God into the hands of the people. That effort continues today as translators continue to try to put the Bible into the language of every people.

Although the NRSV New Revised Standard Version is a standard in the reformed faith, one is free to pick from a variety of versions. If one has heard a verse often and it is hard to concentrate on hearing it again, then a new version can help draw one’s attention back.

"The minister of Word and Sacrament has responsibility for the selection of the version of text from which the Scripture lessons are read in public worship.  If paraphrases are used, adaptations are made, or new translations are prepared, the congregation should be informed."
                              Book of Order W-2.2005

It is also possible to gain understanding by comparing translations and seeing where there are differences in wording. Books and online versions of the original languages are accessible for those who really want to explore the wording of Scripture. If one is new to reading scripture then a version written in a style that one speaks can be helpful.

Some people have one Bible, while others like having several Bibles of all kinds. Some like to accumulate their own notes, while others wish to keep their Bibles neat. Some people like to read scripture from a bound Bible while others like to have a verse e-mailed to them each day. Some people like to read along with the scripture readings in worship while others like to hear the Word.

To sign up to get an “e-mail from God” each day, go to http://www.pcusa.org/devotions/lectionary/subscribe-dl.htm

Prayer: God we thank you for all the words that you give us to know you, to be guided by you and to form community based on you love. Amen.