Josh’s Thoughts

Which Bible translation is the best to use? The answer is, “Several.” In my opinion, it is good to read from several different Bible translations. It is amazing how easy it is to skim past things once a person has read through the same material several times from the same translation. Many times, reading from a different translation will bring new insights. Even though they often say the same thing, the simple fact that it is worded differently will cast the information in a new light.

However, it is also good to remember that some translations are better than others. Not all Bible translations are translated equally well! I am going to give a brief list of a couple of translations that I recommend, followed by a couple of translations that I do not recommend. Then I will give links to a couple of Web sites that offer excellent information on choosing a Bible translation.

Note: I do not give reasons for why I recommend or do not recommend certain translations. I advise people to check out translations for themselves using the resources that I have provided at the bottom of this page. Also, I am in no way affiliated with any of these Bible translations or resources, and I make no profit if a person chooses to purchase any of them.

I have listed the translations that I do recommend and the ones that I do not recommend in order from most accurate to least accurate.

List of translations that I do recommend:

1. NASB (New American Standard Bible)
   • Note: The NASB is probably the most accurate English translation available today. However, it is so accurate that non-native English speakers or new Christians might find it difficult to read.
2. ESV (English Standard Version)
   • Note: The ESV is an excellent blend of accuracy and readability. I highly recommend it.
3. AMP (The Amplified Bible)
4. HCSB (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
5. NIV (New International Version)
6. NLT (New Living Translation)

List of translations that I do not recommend:

1. RSV (Revised Standard Version) and NRSV (New Revised Standard Version)
2. NETBible
3. TNIV (Today’s New International Version)
4. The Message

Links to Further Resources:

1. “Which is the best Bible to use…” – by Pastor Buddy of Christian Challenge
   • This blog post gives an excellent introduction to the different kinds of translations that are available.
2. “The Bible Researcher” – by Michael Marlowe
   • This Web site is an excellent portal to all things related to Bible translation. The “English Versions of Scripture” section has reviews of almost every major English translation on the market, and many minor ones as well.