To ensure you receive the best experience on Lifeway. For more information, see our Privacy Policy. Shop All Bibles. Shop All Bible Studies. Shop All Books. Shop All Events. Church Ordering. God's Word changes lives. But how do you know which translation and style is best? Conside these three questions when selecting a Bible for yourself or to give as a gift. Whether you're looking for your first Bible, replacing an older one, or giving a Bible as a gift, we can guide you through the Bible selection process.
Are you a new Christian looking for an introductory Bible? Maybe you're looking for devotions or study notes built into your Bible. Or perhaps you have a long commute and would like an audio Bible. Bibles come in a variety of sizes, formats, and features, giving you many options to choose from. Check out the descriptions below to discover what editions are available and what might be the best fit for you. Choosing a translation can be tricky.
Above all, our advice is this: pick the translation that is most readable to you. While God is the author of all Scripture, the human writers wrote in three languages. These translation philosophies are often referred to as "word-for-word" or "thought-for-thought. Find best-sellers, Bibles on sale, and the perfect Bible for you. Select a Bible Cover Protect your Bible with a Bible cover or carrying case that can also be used to organize journaling supplies and study accessories.
Log out. View Details. Ordering Christmas Gifts? See our holiday shipping schedule to receive your gifts on time. Which translation? Accuracy or meaning? Which is the best Bible translation? How do I choose my Bible translation? First of all, consider how you'll be reading the Bible I'm new to the Bible You might like to start with a translation that avoids too much technical language. I'll be reading with other people Decide whether it would help you to have the same version as everyone else or a different one so that you can see how different translators have translated the passage you are reading.
I'll be reading big sections at a time e. Translation guide Click on the title to find out more about each translation. Date first published: What kind of translation? Dynamic equivalence — still a translation but is often very colloquial and renders the original language loosely Average reading age? Formal equivalence — literal, staying close to the original sentence structure but changing it where meaning is compromised Average reading age? Yes Often stated pros of the translation: Designed to be accessible to and is very popular among non-native English speakers, especially in Africa and the Far East.
Its line drawings are iconic and help with understanding the text An easy-to-read and understand version Often stated cons of the translation: Often criticised for lack of depth in its phrasing Some feel that, occasionally, it goes too far from the original text in its attempt to communicate meaning Sample verse: 'If we are rich and see others in need, yet close our hearts against them, how can we claim that we love God?
Jerusalem Bible JB. Dynamic equivalence — does not try to follow original sentence structure and focuses on what the text means Average reading age? No Often stated pros of the translation: Beautiful poetic language Language that has influenced many phrases in modern English Very close to the original text Often stated cons of the translation: Archaic language that many people do not understand Based on the Hebrew and Greek texts available in the 16th century.
Some words used in the KJV now have very different meanings e. No Often stated pros of the translation: One of the very few genuine paraphrases, based on the American Standard Version translation One of the earliest accessible versions of the Bible Careful to communicate the meaning of each passage Often stated cons of the translation: One of the very few genuine paraphrases The language is not designed to be elegant Sometimes the verses or passages are given unusual interpretations.
The Message MSG. Yes Often stated pros of the translation: A fresh easy-to-read, idiomatic translation It often presents a different insight to a passage It captures some of the passion of the original Often stated cons of the translations: Its colloquial style works for some and not for others Its idioms are quite American and British readers can find this difficult The translation is very free, which can lead to questions about its accuracy Sample verse: 'If you see some brother or sister in need and have the means to do something about it but turn a cold shoulder and do nothing, what happens to God's love?
It disappears. And you made it disappear. Date first published: updated in What kind of translation? Nowadays, Bibles come in every shape, size, and variety you can imagine, from serious study Bibles like the ESV Study Bible , to trendy editions like Faithgirlz!
Bible, and even a video game-themed variety -- the Minecrafters Bible. With seemingly endless options, making a decision can be confusing and challenging at best. Here are some tips to consider when choosing which Bible to buy. It's important to take time to compare Bible translations before you buy.
For a brief and basic look at some of the major translations today, Sam O'Neal has done a first-rate job unscrambling the mystery in this quick overview of Bible translations. It's a good idea to have at least one Bible in the same translation that your minister uses to teach and preach from in church.
That way you'll find it easier to follow along during church services. You may also want to have a personal study Bible in a translation that is easy for you to understand. Your devotional time ought to be relaxed and meaningful. You won't want to struggle with Bible dictionaries and lexicons when you're reading for inspiration and growth. Consider your primary purpose for purchasing a Bible.
Will you be taking this Bible to church or Sunday School class, or will it stay at home for daily reading or Bible study? A large print, leather-bound version may not be the best option for your grab-and-go Bible. If you're in Bible school, the purchase of a Thompson Chain-Reference Bible [ Buy on Amazon ] could make in-depth topical study much more manageable.
And an Archaeological Study Bible [ Buy on Amazon ] will enrich your cultural and historical understanding of the Bible. As you can see, it's vital to think about how you will use your Bible, where you will take it, and what purpose the Bible will serve before you invest. One of the best ways to research is to talk to people about their favorite Bibles. Ask them to explain which features they like most and why.
Even my ministers have liked the translation. Ask Christians teachers, leaders, and believers you admire and respect about which Bibles they use.
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