Presented by Russell D. Ward
Why Using More Than One Translation Serves the Reader
Exploring the Diversity of Bible Translations
The need for different Bible translations stems from the natural evolution of language. As ancient Hebrew (Old Testament), Greek, and Aramaic (New Testament), become less familiar, new translations are created to make the text understandable to modern readers. They cater to diverse reader needs and preferences.
Having a wide selection of modern Bible translations, each with its own unique strengths, provides a richer and more comprehensive way to study the Scriptures, greatly improving the ability to comprehend God’s message and leading to a more profound spiritual experience.
To keep the Bible relevant and easy to understand, new translations are created as languages like English evolve.
Beyond linguistic and stylistic differences, Some translations are written with non-native English readers in mind. Also certain versions are simplified for children, while others are geared toward individuals who are new to Biblical concepts, making the Scriptures more approachable for a wider range of people.
Different translations reflect changes in language so readers can better understand the Bible today as certain words and phrases fall out of use or change their meaning.
Text - The original-language wording used to create a Bible translation. The listed Bible translations are the most widely used by readers.
Bible translation reading level - Indicates how easy a translation is to read and helps readers choose a version they can understand.
How Is a Bible Translation’s Reading Level Determined? - A reading level shows how easy or hard a Bible translation is to read. Translations with a lower reading level use simpler words and shorter sentences, making them easier for most readers to understand. Translations with a higher reading level use more advanced words and longer, more complex sentences and are often meant for study or academic use.
Translation approach - How closely a Bible translation follows the original wording versus using modern language for ease reading.
Word-for-word -Tries to stay as close as possible to the original wording.
Pros - Good for careful study.
Trade -off - Can be harder to read.
Thought-for-thought - Focuses on expressing the meaning of the text in modern wording.
Pros - Easier to understand.
Trade -off - Less tied to the exact wording.
Paraphrase - Restates the message in very modern, conversational language.
Pros - Very readable.
Trade -off - Not as close to the original words.
Demographic - Some translations are designed to serve particular types of readers.
Academic - Readers focused on in -depth study
Readers who speak English as a second language - Those people learning English who prefer simple, clear wording.
Evangelical -A Christian group that places strong emphasis on the Bible and personal faith.
Youth - Teen readers who prefer clear, modern language.
Young adults - Seeking clear, modern language with meaningful depth.
Adult - Readers who prefer clear, everyday understanding.
Bible Study Styles
Unlock new insights in your Bible study by focusing on these different approaches.
Biblical meditation - God’s Word becomes personal, bringing peace and a deeper awareness of His guidance.
Devotional study - Invites personal reflection as you apply biblical truths to everyday life. It helps you listen for God’s guidance and capture insights, questions, and meaningful applications.
Biblical character study - A focused exploration of Biblical lives to uncover lessons to learn from their actions and experiences.
Excerpt - Chapter 4
Character Study
Inductive Bible study - A method of studying Scripture that begins with the Biblical text itself. Instead of starting with assumptions or teachings, readers carefully examine the passage to discover its meaning and then apply it to their lives.
Inductive Bible study follows three main steps:
Observation – What does the passage say?
This step focuses on reading closely and noticing details such as repeated words, key themes, people involved, and the overall flow of the passage.
Interpretation – What does the passage mean?
Seek to understand the author’s intended meaning by considering context, audience, and the broader message of
Scripture Application – How should this affect my life?
Reflect on how the guidance of the passage applies personally, leading to changed thinking, attitudes, or actions.
Inductive Bible study helps readers:
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Understand Scripture more accurately
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Avoid reading personal ideas into the text
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Grow in confidence when studying the Bible
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Apply Biblical truth in a meaningful and personal way
Excerpt - Chapter 4
Inductive Bible Study
Bible Differences
Rather than endorsing one Bible translation, I encourage reading and comparing several versions to better understand the meaning.
Discover which Bible translations you understand best and use them for both reading and study. Online Bible platforms make it easy to compare versions side by side. These platforms include - Bible Gateway, Bible Hub, and YouVersion.
Each translation seeks to communicate God’s revealed message to English readers in clear, understandable language.
Translation Revisions
Most widely used Bible translations are revised every 15–25 years to keep the language clear and accurate, reflecting both new archaeological insights and changes in English usage.
Examples
NIV 1978: Genesis 23:4a – I am an ALIEN and stranger among you…
NIV 2011: Genesis 23:4a – I am a FOREIGNER and stranger among you…
NLT 1996: Matthew 5:3a - God blesses those who are POOR IN SPIRIT…
NLT 2015: Matthew 5:3a - God blesses those who are POOR AND REALIZE THEIR NEED FOR HIM...
Amplified 1987: James 1:19 – Understand [this], my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry.
Amplified 2015: James 1:19 – Understand this, my beloved BROTHER AND SISTERS. Let EVERYONE be quick to hear [BE A CAREFUL, THOUGHTFUL LISTENER], slow to speak [A SPEAKER OF CAREFULLY CHOSEN WORDS AND], SLOW TO ANGER [PATIENT, REFLECTIVE, FORGIVING];
Watch Russell D. Ward break down the differences between Bible translations
Meet Russell D. Ward
Russell began his career as a pastor before transitioning into entrepreneurship. His diverse start-up experience includes launching a Christian bookstore, a land investment enterprise, and a business coaching service.
With over 400 clients served, Russell is a sought-after workshop speaker, teacher, and business consultant. He is deeply committed to making Christian mysticism relevant and practical for today’s seekers who wish to serve their communities effectively. His training empowers individuals to achieve a new level of authority and ability, focusing on optimal decision-making for sustainable spiritual growth.
Holding two master’s degrees (Divinity and Ministry Management), Russell operates from the lived experience that prayer is not something reached independently, but an ongoing gift carried to finale by The Lord.
Russell has authored five books focused on faith and growth.. You can read more about them at his website.
