Why use different Bible versions?
Using only
one Bible version in both written and oral discourse seems practical and
expedient. This should not pose any problem if and when those who translated
the Bible in various languages are completely free of bias or are theologically
neutral. Unfortunately, they are not. And this has resulted not only in
differences in shades of meaning in some portions of the verse, but also in
differences in interpretation of the entire passage:
“All translation involves interpretation.
Interpretation, of course, involves the influence of theology; so all
translation involves theology, …Translator cannot avoid totally the necessity
of making the interpretive decisions, nor can they avoid completely the
influence of personal views of truth on their work. Translation is not
hermeneutically neutral and translators are not theologically neutral.” (Accuracy of Translation, p. 41)
For these
reasons, there are times when it is
necessary to choose the version that is not only easier to comprehend, but most
of all renders the precise meaning-thus, the need to use more than one version
of the Bible.
How do we
determine which particular version of the Bible to use! Apostle Paul taught the
guiding principle when it comes to the teachings written in the Holy
Scriptures:
“But God has
revealed them to us through His
Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God.
“These things
we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy
Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual” (I Cor. 2:10, 13, New King James Version).
Spiritual
truths must be compared with spiritual truths, and in doing so, there must be
no contradiction. Hence, if a term or phrase in a particular version contradicts
the true doctrine, then there is an error in translation. Therefore, it
behooves us to use a version that does not contradict the biblical truth.
However, an
important thing must be understood when it comes to comparing spiritual truths
with spiritual truths. A preacher of the gospel must be sent or duly
commissioned by God for him to receive the Holy Spirit and be able to correctly
compare spiritual truths with spiritual things. Hence, not everyone can
rightfully explain the contents of the Bible. Apostle Paul said, “And how shall
they preach unless they are sent?...” (Rom. 10:15, Ibid.)
John the Baptist also taught the importance of
being sent by God:
“The one whom
God has sent speaks God’s words, because God gives him the fullness of his
Spirit.” (Jn. 3:34, Today’s English
Version)
God gave the
knowledge of His words only to His messengers. They are the ones entrusted with
the ministry and the message of reconciliation (II Cor. 5:18-20), and thus they
are the ones who can rightfully teach the contents of the Holy Scriptures.
People should listen to their preaching to be able to know and understand the
will of God expressed in His Holy Book.