Ever wonder which Bible translations we like best? Everybody has a favorite and we wanted to share ours with you. And if you are curious about the differences in translations and translation methods, we encourage you to read How to Judge a Book by its Cover.
Teri Lynne: Oh so hard!! I love the English Standard Version (ESV) for study and that’s what I carry to church. But I also use the New Living Translation (NLT) for devotional reading. So those are the two that I turn to most often … but I can’t deny my fondness for the Amplified Bible (AMP) or the New American Standard Bible (NASB) which is what I grew up with.
Julie: I’ve been using the English Standard Version (ESV) as my primary translation for the past couple of years. Not only have I appreciated the word for word translation, I’ve also really enjoyed the study notes in my particular version. Much of what I have memorized and studied until now has been from the New American Standard (NASB). I logged most of my early spiritual growth in the NASB.
Sandra: My go-to Bible translation is the English Standard Version. I think it’s easy to read while sticking close to the original text. I especially love the study Bible version (it’s heavy though so it stays home!). I get this question every week because I work at LifeWay, and I always recommend the ESV.
Kathy: I use the NIV and the ESV for study, but I love to use the New Living Translation for my devotional reading. The NLT is a “dynamic (or functional) equivalence” translation, which translates thought-for-thought rather than word-for-word as in the formal equivalence. Although not as literal, it makes for easier devotional reading since it updates idioms and figures of speech. (Here is a great article about the kinds of translations and how to choose one.)
Stephanie: Amplified. Since I’m a studier and a word girl, my hands-down favorite is always the Amplified. I read the New King James for my quiet time and I use the New Living Translation when I want to convey something in modern terms. Yet, I still love the King James Version – especially when I’m reading through the Psalms.
Kristi: For serious study, I love my NASB! Just this past year I have begun using the ESV for study, also, and I’ve really enjoyed it. My most common go-to is the NIV, however. I grew up on the NIV, have memorized most consistently out of the NIV, and just find it comforting and familiar. Speaking of… my favorite well-marked, well-traveled, well-loved NIV disappeared after church a few weeks ago, so if you’ve seen it send it back. I miss it. :)
I love my Ryrie NASB and that is what I study out of most of the time. But…I also love my ‘well-marked’ NIV. I can totally identify with Kristi – when I pick up that Bible I feel so much comfort. It is like an old friend.
Love you, ladies! I don’t always comment, but I love your articles.
Thanks for your input ladies. I find this very interesting. I’ve ALWAYS studied the NIV and I am surprised to see so many of you preferring the ESV. I’m going to have to check that out!
Thanks for sharing. My favorite is the ESV as well. I really have enjoyed studying through it the last few years. I used to use the NIV all the time and still enjoy it. I’m with Stephanie though on reading the Psalms in the KJV. The Psalms just flow in that version. Beautiful!
Blessings~
Marita