We live in an age of abundance—as your Thanksgiving feast with family and friends likely demonstrated. SO MUCH FOOD!
Honestly, there’s no room for lack in our modern world—especially in America. When it comes to the Bible, this abundance is particularly evident. Dan Wallace, founder of The Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts, has often said we have “an embarrassment of riches” when it comes to the sheer volume of ancient New Testament documents, especially compared to other historical writings.
In a world overflowing with information and data, this abundance can sometimes feel overwhelming. It’s hard to remember a time when we didn’t have everything we wanted right at our fingertips—including God’s Holy Word, the Bible.
The Gutenberg Bible, printed in the mid-15th century by Johannes Gutenberg, is famously known as the first mass-published Bible. Imagine the excitement and awe people must have felt to hold a copy of Scripture in their hands! Fast-forward to today, and we carry countless versions and translations of the Bible right in our pockets—on our phones and tablets.
Abundance, indeed.
So, what’s your favorite Bible translation?
For Terri, it’s the New International Version (NIV). For over a decade, my go-to was the English Standard Version (ESV). Recently, over the past two or three years, I’ve been drawn more frequently to the New Living Translation (NLT). In all honesty, my favorite Bible is my ESV Minister’s Bible. It has traveled far and wide with me and been present at numerous monumental events throughout my life over the past decade. It’s soaked in prayer and stained by the sweat of many dark nights of the soul. It’s become part of me.
Each translation has its strengths, and different versions speak to different people in unique ways. Some prefer a translation that prioritizes word-for-word accuracy, while others connect more deeply with translations that emphasize readability and contemporary language.
When you read the Bible (you do read it, right?), which translation do you turn to most often? There’s no right or wrong answer—just your personal preference.
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop a comment and let me know which Bible translation resonates with you the most.
Grace and peace,
Rainer Bantau—The Devotional Guy™
#bgbg2#BibleGateway
The Devotional Guy™ 
Awesome. Thanks for sharing!
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Amplified is one of my faves but I also love the poetic style of the Voice and the Passion Translation – but right now I am going through using the Message translation. I also like app resources like blue letter or Gateway that allows me to search various translations too.
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😀👍
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That’s a solid translation—or so I’ve heard. I haven’t used it a lot myself but know plenty of people who do and speak highly of it. Thanks for commenting!
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I use the new American standard Bible
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Of course I started with the KJV. In my 30’s it was NASB and for the most part still is. Also finding myself drawn to the NLT especially in teaching and writing.
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My main Bible is an NIV, but I’ve also enjoyed the NKJV, for the past few years. I like it because it maintains the structure and flow of the KJV—which is how I originally memorized scripture verses.
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Alan, the NASB is a very good translation, one used by seminaries and pastors around the globe. It’s very reliable and accurate. Thanks for sharing your insights.
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I really love the NASB Bible which I was introduced to by a dear Pastor and mentor many years ago. My first was the 1995 update, but now I am on the 2020 which I have found difficult to get used to. When writing I often use the KJV and NKJV as a reference, but often find the NASB to be most accurate word for word.
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