Bible Translations Compared

Travis Wales addressed the topic of translations:   
 Class 2 (How to compare Bible Translations) - SermonAudio.com  

Literal or Formal Equivalents give word for word renditions.


King James Bible is the most used. The limitation is the archaic language. Many tools are tied to it, but not as useful  [for Travis] for just reading. 


NKJV is also translated from the same manuscripts without adding modern interpretation in 1980's by 119 scholars.


NASB uses the Alexandrian Text, not the majority text but believed to be an older manuscript translated in 1971 updated in 1995, stays with the flow of the Greek not the English.


ESV also uses the Alexandrian Text. 
Amplified Bible also uses Alexandrian Text with word definitions in brackets. This can help clarify more difficult words. 



NIV published by 115 scholars in 1970's by is a thought for thought translation which is more a commentary on the scripture. Adds words for clarity [may use Christ for him].

KJV & NKJV use Godhead, where NASV and ESV use Deity

The International Children's Version Bible is good to use lightly. There is a lot of liberty used in translating.  Children found it easy to follow along. 
New Living 90 scholars trying to be more contemporary.


Paraphrase, Freestyle, not literal, contemporary commentary


- Often used by Billy Graham to relate to people.
Message Bible by 9 year work by Eugene Peterson came out in 2002


Living Bible