Modern Bible Versions
© 11 Colin Melbourne
NIV: Nearly Inspired Version?
Q Is it wrong to use a modern Bible translation such as the; NIV, NASB, HCSB, NKJV, ESV, Good News, NET Bible, or Living Bible?
Q: I can't understand the King James Bible, so I use the NASB, is it okay?
A Many of my KJV-only (King James only Bible) friends condemn the use of modern Bible versions. They only use the KJV (AV, KJB), and regard all modern Bible translations as corrupted; which is true.
Moderate KJV-only believers would say it is being naive, and perhaps a little foolish, to use a modern translation.
Hopping Mad
There's an extreme KJV-only teaching called "Ruckmanism", whose adherents insist the KJV itself is the inspired, perfect, and infallible word of God. Where the KJV differs slightly from the original Hebrew and Greek texts, Ruckmanites claim the KJV is accurate, and the original languages wrong. That's as mad as a box of frogs!
No Stumbling Blocks Please
The discussion of KJV versus new versions tends to be divisive, and can become inflammatory, even splitting fellowships. So it needs to be handled in the love and wisdom of Christ. Much like the Lord advises us regarding the matter of vegetarianism in Romans 14, and eating food sacrificed to idols in 1 Co. 8. His point being, speak and act in love. Those who know the truth must not cause the immature to stumble.
The Best Translation Isn't a Book
Regular visitors to this site know our opinion, the Lord settled it decades ago. See Which is the Best Bible Translation?
I use the Cambridge Standard Text KJV as my sole authority for all doctrine, and scriptural textual accuracy, and I read Tyndale's 1534 New Testament because I'm a ploughboy. (I have come to regard William Tyndale as my personal friend and beloved brother in Christ.)
In addition, I've used the 1984 NIV in the past, since becoming a Christian in 1988. I refer to it now and then if the KJV seems a little opaque. It's sometimes easier to understand than the KJV, though far less accurate. However, I find the LORD anoints His word and blesses me whilst studying each of them. He's not as fussy as the KJV-only people.
Though a word of warning about the new NIV 2011 is in order: Beware New NIV. Read our five page review to find out why no Christian can safely use it. And for that reason it's best to avoid the 1984 NIV as well, because using it may lead people to trust the seriously corrupt 2011 NIV.
Please read some of the Dean John Burgon books for information about the basic problem with all modern Bibles, and why the Traditional Text is the most accurate. Burgon's scholarship is wonderfully comprehensive, and detailed.
My sheep hear my Voice
So, with those provisos, whatever Protestant Holy Bible you study, as long as the Lord is using it to speak to you, continue with it daily, don't be intimidated by frowning KJV-only believers.
The important point is to always read your Bible prayerfully in the Holy Spirit; not as a book, but as the LORD Himself teaching you personally.
Once you're born of God, and have been filled with the Holy Spirit, then God's Spirit will interpret His word to you, and help you understand His will for your life. The Spirit of God in your heart is your Teacher. His Spirit always agrees with The New Covenant word; so you can check that it is God's Spirit you are listening to by reading His written word, and the two confirm each other.
Use The KJV as Your Standard
It is very unwise to confine yourself to only a modern English Bible version. Get a KJV to read alongside, and ask the Lord to show you which is best. Whilst reading any modern version, your spirit (your heart) will alert you when the translation is poor, or wrong. They often are, so listen to your heart and notice the spiritual "check or wrinkle", then study the same passage in the KJV, and sense the Spirit of God in your heart confirming the KJV translation. Simply ask Him to explain what it means, and He will give you wisdom and revelation whilst you prayerfully meditate on His Word.
As you familiarize yourself with the KJV's more formal language, it becomes much easier to comprehend. By keeping it as your base reference, and reading it in the Spirit, you will be less likely to be led astray by false teachings.
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