“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (KJV)
The flames of controversy have raged within churches for the past several decades over a matter that has undergone analysis, interpretation and discovery for well over 1500 years. It is a scorching fire which has consumed churches, scarred families and devastated social relationships beyond repair, while causing the name of Jesus to be soiled by the profoundly unchristian behavior of many who claim His name! It is a pseudo-controversy concerning one of the most significant issues thinking men and women of faith in the modern era have had to deal with since the Reformation. The pseudo-controversy of our period in human history; “What “English translation” of the Bible constitutes the true revelation of God’s Word?”
Yes, what does constitute the Word of God? Most, if not all Christian denominations and churches would respond, "Why, the Bible of course!" Some, however, would pose a second question. "But which version or English translation represents the true revelation of God’s Word? Is it the New International Version the Word of God? Is it the New American Standard? Is it the King James, the New King James or the 21stCenturyKing James Version? Is it the Contemporary English Versions, the English Standard Version, The Message, or Young’s Literal Translation? In your religious services is the use of the Holeman Christian Standard, or the Darby Translation or even the New Living Translation the primary validated scriptural text?
As a person of faith, I would hope you realize none of the varied translations of sacred scripture agree in their interpretation or translation of the supposed original Greek or Latin text? I say “supposed original text” when referencing the foundational text used as the basis for translation into the English language. For it is indisputable that the original words of Jesus and His Apostles were not written in the lingua franca of 1400th century King James through modern era colloquial English!
Yet, “How can all of these varied translations of the divinely inspired Word of God be valid?" It is this question and the underlying assumption of the questioner that there can be only “one legitimate version” of God’s Word, which forms the starting place for this pseudo-controversy!
Yes, theological questions concerning the validity of the varied “English” translations for the revelation of God’s Word is a matter have come to split good people of faith – worldwide- into denominations, fellowships, sects or other fractious religious grouping within Christianity. With each group laying claim to their own structure or union and their particular understanding of God’s Holy and Divine Word!
"For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." - Hebrews. 4:12
Loving God with your whole heart is the key to everything in life; not which version of the Sacred Text you elect to read, because your relationship with God affects everything and everyone in your life! Praise God, we can see clearly and without doubt, hesitation or equivocation that it is impossible to love God too much; however it is easy for any one of us to fall short of loving Him with our whole heart.
Sisters and brothers, during a moment of quiet and honest personal reflection and prayer; hopefully while reading your bible, I would encourage you to ask Him this question: “Lord, how can I love you more”? The response from our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ will be the same; in whatever version of the Bible you’ve elected to read:
“Jesus said to him, “‘you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22:37–40)
“Lord Help Me To Hold Out” - John P. Kee & NLCC
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