Understanding the Different Bible Versions

 Today, the Bible has been translated into more than 1,000 different languages, resulting in numerous translations. The primary difference in these translations relates to how the original manuscripts have been translated. The Bible Translation Spectrum Charts helps explain the variations in the versions. 

• Some translations, like the New American Standard, King James Version, and New King James Version, utilize a word for word translation. 
• Other translations, like the New International Version and the New Living Translation, employ a thought for thought translation. 
• Finally, some translations, like The Living Bible and The Message, are a paraphrase.

Word for word translations are considered the most accurate, while paraphrase versions may be easier to understand. Sometimes it is also nice to read the same passage in various versions.