choose your Bible version
Here is a comparison of 7 different Bible translations. Some Bibles prioritize readability, others emphasize accuracy, and some believe that older versions are superior.
We've included the same verse (Proverbs 4:23) in each Bible translation so you can easily compare and decide which one suits you best in terms of readability.
New International Version: NIV
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it”
The New International Version (NIV) of the Bible is the most popular English translation. The translators focused on staying true to the intent of the original language, trying to do literal translation in most cases, but adding in a little thought for thought translation to improve readability where needed.
It is intended to be written at a 7th-8th grade reading level, making it a very appropriate choice for most adults.
English Standard Version: ESV
“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life”
In the English Standard Version (ESV) of the Bible, the translators decided that they wanted a more literal translation of the Bible and sacrificed some readability to get this.
This results in a higher reading level and the ESV is estimated to be appropriate for 10th graders.
New Living Translation: NLT
“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it is the wellspring of life”
If you like sticking closely to the original words of the Bible, the ESV is a good choice. If you want a bit more readability without straying too far from the original meaning, the NIV is a solid option. But if you prioritize understanding the overall message of the passage over exact wording, the NLT might be perfect for you.
The NLT aims for a 6th grade reading level, making it easy to follow along. There's a slight risk of losing some of the original intent with this approach, but it's not as risky as a paraphrase Bible.
So, if you're finding the NIV tough to grasp, give the NLT a try – it's a great balance of accuracy and accessibility.
King James Version: KJV
“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life”
Some people really like the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible due to the fact that it has been used by Christians for hundreds of years, but this is also one of the major problems with the KJV. When this particular translation was first published in 1611, the English language was quite different from today.
In this particular passage, we see words like begotten, believeth, and hath, but some verses have even harder words than these. If you are taking a college course in Middle English, this translation may be a great choice, but for the average adult, the language is at a 12th grade reading level and is likely to cause more problems than it is worth.
Additionally, there are quite a few errors in translation in the KJV. More modern translations had teams of people working on them and they made careful checks before publishing. The KJV process was not nearly as thorough, and there are more translation errors than most people consider acceptable. Further, some of these errors are due to the source that was used to translate. The authors used a mediocre Greek translation of the Bible as their main source, which means that many of the passages were first translated from another language to Greek, and then from Greek to English. Any errors in the first translation could be compounded in the second.
It is our advice that this version not be used as a primary Bible.
Good News Translation: GNT
“Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts”
The Good News Translation (GNT) of the Bible is designed for those who prefer a simpler reading experience, similar to a 4th-6th grade level. It's great for people who find complex language and sentence structures challenging. Like the NLT, it's a thought-for-thought translation.
This version is perfect for children or those learning English, but as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 3:2, just as babies need milk before they can handle solid food, there may come a time when a more advanced version of the Bible is needed.
While the GNT has its merits, as you grow older or improve your English skills, you may find that another translation offers more depth and accuracy. For instance, the GNT often substitutes "happy" for "blessed," but "blessed" carries a richer meaning.
The Message: MSG
“Keep vigilant watch over your heart; that's where life starts”
We find the Message translation to be a bit frustrating, as it is more of a paraphrase Bible rather than a true translation. The author not only interprets the text but presents it as the actual word of God. While some Christians may appreciate it, we personally believe it crosses a line by essentially being the author's interpretation rather than God's word. Although there is value in the interpretation, we struggle with calling it a Bible.
When we look at Deuteronomy 4:2 in the ESV version, the most literal translation, it advises against adding to or taking away from God's commands. To us, this means that interpreting the Bible and then claiming it as God's word contradicts this command. It's a shame that the author didn't label their work as something other than a Bible translation.
Easy to Read Version: ERV
(We use this version at Atonement)
“Above all, be careful what you think because your thoughts control your life”
The Easy-to-Read Version (ERV) Bible is a translation that aims to make the Bible easier to understand for new believers, children, and those learning English. It simplifies complex language while staying true to the original meaning, making it more approachable for everyone.
Initially created for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, the ERV quickly became popular among children, new believers, and those who struggle with traditional Bible translations.
Key Features of the ERV Bible:
Simple, easy-to-understand language that is perfect for readers of all levels.
Thoughtful translation that maintains accuracy while enhancing readability.
Designed for accessibility, making it great for ESL readers, children, and those new to the Bible.
Available in various editions, including study, large print, and youth Bibles.
The ERV Bible is a fantastic choice for those seeking a clear, engaging, and easy-to-read translation. Whether you need a beginner's Bible, youth Bible, or devotional ERV Bible, there’s an edition for everyone.