Churches Of Christ/Bible

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Expert: - 3/28/2011


Question
Ernie,

Is it okay to use the Living Bible, paraphrased -
I've been reading it and it's much easier to understand
than the King James version.  I'm wondering if it's
translated well enough to use.  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Maria,

The title of the book you are using should give you the answer you need.  It is a "paraphrase" rather than a translation.  That means that those who compiled "the Living Bible" (TLB)interpreted rather than translated.  Therefore you have the opinions of men rather than a translation of the Word of God.

The King James is a difficult translation to use for a number of reasons that have nothing to do with the King James translation.  I would recommend in order of preference: the New King James, the American Standard 1901, the NASB, and the ESV translations.  They follow a method of translation that relies more on a word for word translation rather than the paraphrase method which seeks to translate ideas rather than words.  Jesus said that every jot (the dot over an i or j) and tittle (the cross of a t) matters.  These other translations are easier to read because they use a more modern form of English yet they do not do near the amount of harm to the scriptures as TLB.  I would not even give your TLB away.  It is not worth using by anyone.

A word of caution.  No translation is perfect.  There are flaws in all of them.  A variety of GOOD translations is the best way to get the appropriate meaning of verses.

Hope that answers your question!

In Truth and Love,
Ernie

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Ernie Laurence, Jr.

Expertise

I am capable of answering any questions concerning doctrines of the church of Christ. I specialize in Creation vs. Evolution topics, the book of Revelation and other Biblical prophecies, and other apologetics related topics such as distinctions from denominational doctrines.

Experience

My experience in this area includes: having been raised by members of the church of Christ from infancy, having been immersed into the church of Christ at age ten, having taken an active role in worship/service leadership (song leading, teaching, preaching, youth ministry) since age fourteen through the present, and participating in numerous formal debates, research projects, and online discussions.

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The church of Christ

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Local congregations.

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I hold a bachelor's degree in computer information systems (CIS) from Tarleton State University which focuses on business communication and management. This provided training for how to deal professionally with individuals and organizations if not direct training in the field of religion. See experience section for informal education experience.

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