The NIV Is the Best Bible Translation, And So's the NIrV.

For Certain People in Certain Circumstances.
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[@staceycohorst7132]

"What if people actually read their NIV's hard? What bad stuff is going to happen?" Solid. Solid. Solid point.

[@markwardonwords]

I was asking myself this again this morning!

[@leonardbramhill6889]

A lot of Christians have enjoyed the Chronicles of Narnia but a few Christians know that it’s a required reading for, becoming a witch . It has citations in it that summon demons. God says in his word that anyone that wants wisdom to ask for it but if you don’t ask for it you’re going to play the fool.

[@b.6184]

Thanks, Mark, as a pastor I'm so weary of translation wars in a culture that is increasingly biblically illiterate. I enjoy various translations, and I think It's incredible how three letters on the spine are more of a focal point to some folks than the thousands inside.

[@markwardonwords]

RIGHT!

[@gregtowle8830]

@@markwardonwords Warning: Shocking Reasons You Should Not Use the NIV Bible kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4WTkqNopJaYp68si=UukgYXmRXMmBP0C6 Please watch this.

[@legolandmafia]

So, I know it's been ages since you posted this and I first watched it.... HOWEVER, as someone who is (most gratefully) able to receive quality, well-though-out content such as this for free, I feel it is my onus (? that may be a little strong) to feedback when your work has been a personal blessing. Thanks heaps for this one. Being told for years that only the a small handful of decidedly 'literal' translations were trustworthy, a view further emphasised in seminary (some professors wouldn't even accept my beloved ESV), this video gave me permission to enjoy a more casual translation in my daily readings. As someone who struggles to read, this is no small thing... Looking back, it sounds silly that it even needed to be said, but thank you for being the one to say it.

[@markwardonwords]

You're so welcome! I obviously had to go through a similar process!

[@TheBlessedgardner]

So glad this channel was recommended to me. I've watched about a dozen today and I must say I have learned and enjoyed each one. I also appreciate your kind and gentle way of bringing both sides of topics. God's blessings. Keith

[@markwardonwords]

I'm honored! Thank you!

[@felixmarinjr.66]

Hello Mark. I really enjoyed this video. I like the talking outside and in different locations. Really nice touch with the transitions. All the points you made were so spot on. I am a Bible geek and have a dozen plus translations. I treasure each one and my biggest challenge is settling on one to be sort of my main base translation. I keep changing my mind every few months lol.

[@markwardonwords]

God doesn't tell you you have to settle. =) I think it's prudent to do so. I do love the ESV. I default to more formal translations for preaching. As you know, I'm not trying to make anyone else's decision for them. If I were a pastor, I would choose differently depending on my sheep.

[@felixmarinjr.66]

@@markwardonwords I haven’t been able to settle with one. So I try to use a couple as my main go to bibles and use several others as comparisons. But you are so right in that getting in the habit of comparing translations, looking up words, has enriched my Bible reading.

[@jmcgregor316]

The NIV Quest Study Bible brought me back to Bible reading in the late 80s. I'm back for good. :)

[@markwardonwords]

Welcome back!

[@sandersdca]

As a college student in the 1970s I discovered the NIV New Testament. I devoured it in a week! And the NIV Study Bible is still my favorite for its helpful notes.

[@markwardonwords]

Excellent!

[@mj6493]

Same here. I had never read the bible in big chunks before.

[@marjoriedonnett5467]

The NIV is my favorite translation. I've used it for about 35 years after growing up with the KJV (which I also still love for the beauty of its language). My church likes the NKJV, but I don't. I recently tried many of the other translations (e.g., NLT, ESV, CSB, Amplified), but discovered I still love the NIV,

[@markwardonwords]

It’s a worthy love!

[@ejwoods2457]

I used to strongly prefer formal equivalent translations and even mocked the NIV. Without even reading much of it. And although I still prefer the NASB 2020 and ESV I’ve come to really enjoy the NIV. It’s a truly scholarly translation. I like that it actually makes much more use the DSS and LXX in the OT than most other translations. It’s often much more literal than you’d expect.

[@ghostl1124]

NIV is great Great companions include the NKJV, HCSB, Amplified Bible

[@jonriley127]

Dude, props for the Music Man rewrite!! These videos are super helpful btw. Making the choice of what translation to use for our church right now. I've been bouncing between the ESV (my home base) and the NIV because some of our congregation speaks English as a second language. Your video on the CSB has me thinking I should give it a seriously look too, but then I may get stuck in the paralysis of analysis.

[@markwardonwords]

You can't do wrong, my friend. I don't think you can sin merely by choosing any of these options. I think the CSB pretty neatly solves some pastoral problems that might arise over the NIV. I think it's a great option! And I see utility in the formal approach of the ESV, too. Honestly: I might just flip a coin between the NIV and CSB. Or take a vote. That will communicate to others what kind of decision you're making. You're not standing on principle to pick THE ONE RING TO RULE THEM ALL. You're picking one of any number of good translations-and you're inviting your people to do the same. They might find it useful to bring a different translation to church. No problem.

[@jonriley127]

@@markwardonwords Thanks brother, I appreciate the response and the support. Be blessed!

[@JonAdamsMinistries]

Awesome stuff, I really like that you’re changing up the background, keeps me engaged.

[@markwardonwords]

It's a lot of work and expense, I'll be honest-but it's also fun and a good challenge.

[@JonAdamsMinistries]

@@markwardonwords I totally get that, glad you’re doing it though, it shows a love for the both the craft of engaging teaching and film making. Well done!

[@williamholiman6830]

Thank you for this helpful discussion and teaching. I found it beneficial from start to finish.

[@markwardonwords]

Thanks for watching!

[@jimyoung9262]

Thank you Mark. These videos are liberating and illuminating. I found your channel and work after running into some dear friends who are firmly KJV only to the Ruckmanite level. Through watching your videos I have realized that I have some of the same prejudices my KJVO friends have regarding non literal translations (I'm an unashamed NKJV reader). Having my children grow up and ask me questions about word choices in the NKJV caused me to realize that I have not considered what it means to people that are 30 years younger than me. I've dug out my old NIV study bible and have started to read it again and haven't been struck by a lightning bolt yet.

[@markwardonwords]

Awesome! I just love this!

[@gregtowle8830]

@@markwardonwords The NIV removes many verses from the chapters, Plus the NIV changes words to make it have a different meaning , Plus they cut off many verses and not complete the full verse. I'd stay away from that NIV , There is a chart that tells what the most accurate bible version there or. The NIV is thought for thought. Its very missleading .

[@markwardonwords]

@@gregtowle8830 My friend, the New King James Version and the Modern English Version both use the same underlying Hebrew and Greek texts as the King James. And they translate those texts into fully intelligible contemporary English, which means they meet the principle of 1 Corinthians 14, edification requires intelligibility. I recommend the NKJV and MEV to you.

[@gregtowle8830]

@@markwardonwords But the KJV 1611 writes God as LORD in all large letters

[@rhyne9388]

Fantastic Mark. One of your best videos. Well, put together superb.

[@markwardonwords]

Many thanks!

[@gen_lee_accepted5530]

So looking forward to reading through the NIV in 2022. I have never spent much time with the NIV. This video was a great kickoff for me.

[@markwardonwords]

Excellent! I've read a reader's TNIV all the way through and a reader's NIV all the way through; and I've listened all the way through the TNIV Bible Experience. Each was great.

[@SirChristoferus]

One of my favorite aspects of the NIV is its consideration of how English is used in the broader international Anglosphere, like how it opts to use "certainly" when "surely" is seen to denote the exact opposite of its meaning when used by the British in certain contexts.

[@markwardonwords]

Interesting. Hadn't noticed that!

[@JosephAlanMeador]

The NIV is a great translation! I must admit that I looked down my nose at it in the past, and was wrong to do so. Now when I'm studying the ESV, I'll read the same passage again in the NIV Archaeological Study Bible, and that's really been helping me understand the scripture and the context better. Thanks Mark!

[@markwardonwords]

Excellent! I went through a similar process years ago!

[@Ancient-Paths]

Thank you so much for that message. I always felt so guilty using the NIV translation for the notes I gave to my Gospel Group (unbelievers), Nurture Group (new Christians), and for tracts I produced for cults and church heresies - because my pastor was KJV-only man. He never told me off - but sighed a lot when he read my tracts. I tried to explain that anything that could make the Bible more readily and easily understandable to the uninitiated was a good thing - and he never mentioned it again. I think he secretly agreed. That was in the 1980's when we were always being told that verses had been removed - and a lesbian was on the translation team - so I was very careful what verses I did use. Can I ask - what do you think about the Amplified Bible? I also used that in the Nurture Group - and it was greatly appreciated. Although one young lady said she thought it amplified her sins. I replied that indeed it did - but it also amplified God's love and forgiveness. At the end of the day - God would rather have someone obedient to the NIV than disobedient to the NASB.

[@markwardonwords]

Interesting. And excellent final line. Here's my take on the Amplified Bible: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pGbNipelbcahr9k

[@BrianLassek]

interrobang... this clinches my respect for your work. The kind of nerdy that adds an interrobang to a bible review is just what we new need.

[@markwardonwords]

When will a Bible translation first use one, and where? =)

[@edwinalvarez1619]

Next video “The NLT is the best translation”. This is great thank you for this. I’m currently reading my bible in the NIV. I was saved reading a CEV bible that was gifted to me then bought an NIV. I ditched the NIV for an ESV for 10 years. Switching back to the NIV was good for me. Enjoy reading the word in the translation that speaks to you the most. No one should be disparaging others for their choice of bible translation.

[@markwardonwords]

That last line is so key.

[@jakesarms8996]

I heard good things about the NLT , I'm getting one .

[@richardvoogd705]

I was gifted a first edition NLT when it first came out. A number of updates have been made. One thing I noticed a year or two back is that the earlier editions seem to reflect the wording of the Living Bible in more places.

[@akhiker01]

Do you have a video on the NLT ? I like the older versions and very careful with recent updates. I have a copy of several translations and avoid the many crackpot bibles that should not be called bibles . Like the message and the passion and so many more these days 😂

[@user-sy2ri2xe9m]

Hi Mark, I have appreciated and benefited from your work! I began what I would call more serious study of scripture in the '84 NIV and moved to the ESV later and have remained there for many many years. Work like yours, my interest in premium Bibles and some of those FB pages so associated started me on a quest to read through multiple translations myself...slow going but I started by pairing ESV and NLT for this year and want to move to NIV '11 and NASB 95 as soon as I finish my current plan.

[@user-sy2ri2xe9m]

Sorry for the quick finger on the carriage return....at any rate there certainly has been some tribalism in my reformed circles around the ESV...not harsh and not in any condemnation of other translations that I have experienced but at a minimum a firm residence there. I am not off-put by the gender accuracy choices...and don't want this to be too long of a post so I will get to the heart of my question...curious for your insight on a passage such as Gal 3:26 where children is rendered instead of sons. It is true, in that culture, that the daughters could not inherit property and I think we can miss some of what Paul is saying correcting the gender use in a case like this. I believe in this case that son meant legal heir...rights not available to the woman...but women are clearly heirs in the gospel and clearly a radical claim in a sense that women are sons of God in like manner....I have really liked the little that I have read of the NIV '11 and would like to continue the joy in using it...but I am wondering about instances like this and if it is too quick to correct. Your thoughts would be appreciated.Thanks. Grace to you. - Andy

[@brendaboykin3281]

Thank you Brother Mark. 🌹🌹🌹

[@markwardonwords]

You are very welcome!

[@PurpleGiraffe9533]

Thank you for shedding some light on the NIV and also other modern translations. I’ve always been around the KJVO Independent Baptist crowd. I’ve tried in the past to read NKJV NASB NLT CSB ESV ERV (I could never bring my self to getting an NIV) but I just couldn’t read them for very long always thinking in the back of my mind that the KJV was the only true Bible in English 😬 but 2022, I want things to be different because I’m going to be using multiple translations but I will read my ESV Key Word Study Bible primarily. 😎

[@markwardonwords]

A great choice!

[@deanshaffer4522]

Thanks - fantastic video!

[@markwardonwords]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@stephaniemccreight976]

I love this. When I started my Christian walk, I didn't realize there were so many transcriptions, I ended up buying the NIV because I liked the outside. I bought 2, 1 to write in and 1 to read. Because it does have such simple language, I understood it so much better and got me into purchasing the other translations so that I can see what other words are used depending on the translation I am reading. And you are very correct in saying that it is so much easier to read bulk amounts at a time in the NIV, I still love this version and will always refer back to it if I need to understand the more expressive language that I may not grasp.

[@markwardonwords]

I love it, too! It's a good gift of God. Not perfect, but good. Very good!

[@carloswater7]

Thank you so much for making this video. A lot of people should watch this video. I read the KJV, NKJV, NLT, NASB, NIV, and Reina Valeria 1960. But my favorite translation is the NIV.

[@markwardonwords]

Share it with your friends! Thank you for the kind word!

[@allankempson6951]

The NIV is my favourite translation, I find that it's very accurate, and it's in today's English. When I read and listen to the NIV it feels like the Bible is relevant for today far more than when I'd read the KJV or the ESV, but I like that it's not too thought for thought like the Good News Bible or the NLT.

[@markwardonwords]

A good assessment! I think the ESV/KJV on the one hand and the NLT/GNB on the other have their place, for sure. But the NIV hits a good place in the middle of the road. So does the CSB.

[@richardvoogd705]

My first Bible was a GNB, the second was an NIV (prior to the 1984 edition). I don't shy away from other translations - each of the ones I have purchased have their place, and each can help shed light on various passages.

[@thetruthshallsetyoufree2040]

NIV is my fav translation, English is my second language and it has been tremendous help for me! plus Dr Daniel Wallace recommending it

[@markwardonwords]

Wallace is a true scholar.

[@timcarr6401]

@@markwardonwords Dr. Wallace is on the Biblica team.

[@BBC600]

Have you ever looked into the International Children's Bible (ICB). It's the translation I usually have to hand. I'm particularly curious how it stands up head to head with the NIrV.

[@markwardonwords]

I really haven't. I can't speak with knowledge about the ICB.

[@BibleBuyingGuide]

I like your analogy of a smooth road. I've often described reading editions as those that remove the roadblocks for smoother reading. I even prefer text-only editions and editions that don't include reference and footnote keys in the text. The shorter sentences in the NIrV is the way my WordPress clients want me to write articles for their blogs. Fewer people are reading, so we have to write shorter and simpler sentences. This makes me wonder if we'll see shorter sentences in future updates of other translations.

[@markwardonwords]

Wow! Really? Very interesting! What kinds of clients? Who do they think their audience is? That's what I'm curious about.

[@BibleBuyingGuide]

@@markwardonwordsmy largest client is Elegant Themes. Their audience ranges from beginners to advanced WordPress users across the globe. So, for many of their readers, English isn't their first language. Their writer's guidelines are similar to other clients I've written for, such as GoDaddy. It's the same guidelines they give in articles about writing for the web in general.

[@BibleBuyingGuide]

This is why my writing is often choppy.

[@TheJesusNerd40]

So NIrV is the twitter Bible of the Bible translation world.

[@goodjohnjr]

@@TheJesusNerd40 No 😁, the NIrV (New International Reader's Version) is simply among the easiest to read / understand bible translations, thanks to it being written at a third grade reading level. I am currently reading through it now for the first time, trying to read about 6 pages a day, so far I have stuck to my goal unlike with any other bible translation that I have tried. And it is helping me pick up details that I missed and did not understand in the KJV (King James Version) et cetera, so I definitely recommend giving it a try. You might be surprised, too, it is not just for kids et cetera, and can benefit anyone.

[@harryswitzer7190]

I used the NIV (84) for years but also had a KJV study bible which was difficult to read then my church changed to ESV. Then one day ordered a one year bible without checking which translation it was and when I opened it it was a NLT. It was an eye opener so I bought a NLT and it is now my daily reader, I find it accurate, understandable and just so easy to read large pieces with greater retention as it is in the language I use daily. Makes the Old Testament especially readable

[@markwardonwords]

The NLT is valuable! I still hope at some point to do a "The NLT Is the Best Bible Translation" video.

[@lucasmotasanantoniorealestate]

@@markwardonwordsPLEASE DO THAT VIDEO 🙌

[@MetalThrashinPietist]

Awesome. I sincerely appreciate this. I fell for it but you cleared the fog and I’ll be dusting it off for side by side reading! TY!

[@stephenhagen234]

This is one of the most balanced and unbiased explanation I have ever heard on the NIV translation. Mark is so wise in saying we need both, formal and dynamic translations of God's word. I have to remind my self to "trust in the Lord with all my heart, and don't lean upon my own understanding (Proverbs 3:5&6) when I read His word along with being teachable in my spirit, having a humble spirit. Thank you Mark!

[@markwardonwords]

Thank you so much!

[@susieqds7351]

Thank you! I mainly use the ESV & NASB but also like reading the NIV (& recently the CSB) especially when tired and sentences flow easier over the more difficult passages.

[@markwardonwords]

All are good choices, useful tools for understanding God's Word!

[@scotthixson111]

Biblese and Greeklish. Love it. Good video Mark. Grew up on the KJV but have used the NIV from the beginning, 1978. So I have somewhat of a nostalgia factor with it just like the KJV. Trying to find my original 1978 hardcover but no luck yet😬😬

[@markwardonwords]

Ah, yes! Those two special languages! There's Hebrewlish, too!

[@bruceanable7739]

I understand the lack of the reading ability in some people. including myself who grew up in special Ed all through school. I’m very thankful for translations like,GNB,NIV,NLT it makes it to comprehend what the Bible is saying.

[@markwardonwords]

Right!

[@makarov138]

Mark, you may find it interesting, that while the NIV84 translates MT 24:30 incorrectly from the Greek; however, the 2011 NIV gets it correct! Why the NIV84 felt the need to rearrange the word order is beyond me, when there is no need for it. That Greek is even clear to ME. The light is still lit my friend. I've just ordered a new 2011 NIV, and am waiting on it to arrive. Still deciding whether to add another shelf on the wall for more bibles. Getting kinda close in here. Keep on with it Mark! Love these videos!

[@markwardonwords]

Thank you!

[@jowilliebear]

Are hurricanes and ships still referred to in the feminine tense? Should hurricanes named after males be called himicanes? A wife asked her sea-going husband, "when we got married, you said I had the lines of a beautiful ship. Do you still feel that way?" The old sailor replied, "Yes, but your cargo has shifted."

[@markwardonwords]

;)

[@makarov138]

Just this very morning, Sept 4, 2022, I found a used 1988 printing of an NIV reference bible by Zondervan online. This version has not to this time been one of my much used versions. I noticed that it was a direct translation from the Critical Text, and not gone through the traditions of the other bible versions. I got loads of them already. After reading on biblegateway some of its verses that I look up to see if I like a particular version; I LIKE IT! So I purchased it at a very fare price. Double column with center reference. Can't wait to get it!!

[@markwardonwords]

It's a good one!

[@19king14]

Another nice job/video! The NIV is one of the first translations I read through from Genesis to Revelation. Yes, it is a good “cruising” bible, it is easier reading, but, as you mention, sometimes “cruising” can cause you to drift. It’s just a matter of being more aware. Anytime NIV is discussed with my circles, I make it know that it is really a paraphrase and they’re better off seeing it that way, especially for deeper, word or doctrine study. Using NIV in that way is a No-No. As far as the gender-neutral stuff. It doesn’t seem to be a big or even a little issue in the area I live in. My kids did notice that at times the bible says “He” or “Man” when it means everyone. I remind them that God and the Bible wants us to think, this is one of those cases. That about settled it. As far as how translations on two of the scriptures you discuss. I notice 1 Corinthians 2:1 in the NWT has “... I did not come with extravagant speech or wisdom..” easy, clear and accurate. Ephesians 6:10 “Go on acquiring power in the Lord and in the mightiness of his strength” also quite literal, understandable and in modern vernacular. Just comparing notes.

[@markwardonwords]

Thank you! But I do think it's important to keep The Message in the paraphrase category and not let centrist translations like the NIV come into it. It really is different.

[@19king14]

One concern I have is why the NIV translators so often change the text when the original text was easy to read, understand and not archaic. This is just one example I mentioned before because it avoids controversy; NIV removes the word "begotten" in places like John 3:16. I noticed that because I was born and raised on KJV. As far as I found there are no Greek textual variants. The Greek word is monogenes, not monadikos. Clearly Jesus is not the 'only' son of God. Then NIV removes the words "sons of God" in other places. Maybe, so there is no contradiction? The words "sons of God" is the exact translation of the original languages, they are among the easiest words to read and understand, even for 3rd graders, and they're not archaic. It seems God's Holy Spirit wants us to know that God even calls his angels his sons! Why do scholars say it's OK for them to remove all of that since they're scholars? This presents just one or two of countless examples that justify so often disagreeing with mainstream scholars. They need to be careful.

[@johnreynolds875]

How do you use a concordance when the NIV is not a word for word translation, rather it is a "dynamic equivalence"? Meaning you have no basis to understand the Hebrew or Greek used in the original texts. NIV really means Nearly Inspired Version.

[@markwardonwords]

Asking seriously: do you want an answer, or is this a rhetorical question?

[@PrentissYeates]

Since watching your videos videos, it made me relook at the translation. ( yes, I was raised with KJV, cleave to the NKJV). But, 1. My pastor uses the translation, our Sunday school ( that still meets?) class curriculum is the NIV . And really what if all translations are about is word choices. Has the doctrine changed? But sadly, when the NIV 2011 came out, my denomination went out of their way to destroy the translation, only to make a cover-band translation. So, I’m re reading the NIV, having a few “ ah ha” moments.

[@storyofscripture]

love your poetic language good sir

[@markwardonwords]

Many thanks!

[@mariolis]

Ah the NIV , my favourite translation The one that actually reads like a book and I dont have to pause to look closer to double check if I really understand something Not the best for deep understanding (I always reference multiple translations on my phone app for that) But when I just wanna read in a constant flow , thats where the NIV shines Also , because of this video, I checked ouy the NIrV , I was surprised by the simplicity of the language , I felt like it was patronising ,but then I remembered... this bible is NOT for me , but it is useful for others who perhaps were not as lucky to have an education... it is by no means an "inferior" version , the meaning is all still there And I think I kind of understand people who Champion literal translations a bit better now , even though the NIV is anything but , it still might feel "dumbed down" to people used to the NASB , which is how i felt when comparing the NIV to the NIrV in the app As someone who is not a biblical scholar , I always feel like im missing some meaning in literal translatioms through idioms that are translated word for word rather than what they mean in English... It alwsys feels like im missing some cultural context... but this is not an issue at all for me in the NIV

[@markwardonwords]

All of these are reasons to use all good Bible translations! Your thinking is following the same path mine has followed!

[@mariolis]

@@markwardonwords Comparing the same verse in different translations always helps me understand more , so using more than one translation , in my opinion is the "minimum" for anyone who claims to understand the bible

[@RyanGill86]

Thank you for this video. I am an ESV guy and have been using the CSB more and more. I had been very critical of the NIV around 15 years ago or so but have softened largely due to your videos. I am frustrated by tribalism even in my own Calvinist camp: John MacArthur famously said, when asked why his study Bible was going to me made available in the 2011 NIV (now out of print), John asked himself, "Do the readers of the NIV even care what the Bible means?" 😐😑😐 The audience at Grace Community laughed. It was an amusing burn but unjustified. I would argue that jab could me made at users of The Message paraphrase and especially The Passion Translation, but not toward the NIV -- even the NIV 2011.

[@markwardonwords]

Yeah, I have to call that a cheapshot. =| I've been pushing back against that sentiment (not always delivered as a cheapshot) for a long time.

[@sammywonder4502]

I'm glad I found your channel. Reading through the comment section though is really exhausting sometimes. The theological division in the body of Christ is laughable, especially when we agree on 80% of the same teachings (Trinity, Resurrection etc) I'm not the book smartest person so in my early 20s I relied on sermons to reveal hidden Bible truths or just wouldnt bother at all. Now with all the new accessible ways of studying the Bible (ie Mark Ward YT channel 😉) , a birds eye view of many translations instead of picking at the integrity of the translators and the help of Holy Spirit to teach me what was intended in scripture and have that shape my life, I can gladly say that I'm a budding scholar 😊. The word of God has helped be break addiction and subside cravings. The word of God is actively softening my heart everyday. The word of God is my therapy when I can't afford it. The word of God is shaping me to be a father different to the one I had. If the word of God is blowing up your head and not changing your life then I think your doing it wrong lol

[@markwardonwords]

Ha! Love that!

[@sammywonder4502]

@@markwardonwords :)

[@EricGreniervideo]

Thank you for opening my mind on this.

[@markwardonwords]

My pleasure!

[@donclowers7666]

I have attended a kjvo church for many years and really never questioned it until I attended a Christian university. They used the NIV as their text and I grew to really like it. I primarily use the ESV these days for personal study as I prefer a formal translation. I often comparison read with the NIV although I’m in the camp of not caring much for the gender inclusive language. I enjoyed this discussion and look forward to hearing more.

[@markwardonwords]

✔

[@CyndiMiller]

Yes the NIV opens up many passages for me and it helps me to REALLY understand them, if you know what I mean. It clicks a new understanding inside my brain and spirit and reveals a full explanation, that I totally get.

[@Dwayne_Green]

I've actually gone back into some of my emails and discovered that I've used the non-gender specific 'they' without even thinking about it.

[@brendaboykin3281]

Hey Dwayne, love your work! 🌹🌹🌹

[@markwardonwords]

Very interesting!

[@hopehilton]

We were born into different camps, but I enjoy everything I’ve heard from you. Thanks for your ministry 😊

[@markwardonwords]

You are so welcome!

[@oliverjaymichaels6683]

As a former KJVO, I am so grateful for these videos! It’s helped me heal from my former church. I still have questions, especially many of the things that Gail Riplinger said regarding Westport and Hort and their involvement in occult practices.

[@MAMoreno]

Riplinger's argument is a classic case of ad hominem. Tischendorf, the man who kicked off the modern critical editions of the New Testament, didn't come across Codex Sinaiticus through occult practices. He came across it in a monastery.

[@oliverjaymichaels6683]

@@glenn1611 I don’t disagree with you but I need more solid proof than that. It was facts and proof that got me into KJVO (although I’ve now learned they were false) and I need to know what I was told is for sure false.

[@markwardonwords]

Oliver, I, too, feel comfortable simply saying that Riplinger cannot be trusted. Doubt every last thing she said. Of course, nobody is 100% wrong. I'm sure there's something in her work that's true. But every time I've read a page of her work, I've had that feeling you have, the where-do-I-even-start feeling. If you want to listen to someone responsible on Westcott and Hort, turn to Dan Wallace. www.credocourses.com/product/textual-criticism/ And I've got more recommendations here: byfaithweunderstand.com/2020/09/03/answering-a-question-i-get-all-the-time-the-places-to-start-in-studying-new-testament-textual-criticism/

[@oliverjaymichaels6683]

@@markwardonwords thank you for your reply. I’ll look into those resources.

[@oliverjaymichaels6683]

@@AboveGodsName thank you but I have already used the King James Bible exclusively in the past and I’m not interested in switching back. I’ve watched several of Mark Ward’s videos and I agree with him. The King James is a good Bible but there are other versions that are more clear in today’s English.

[@dirtypatwalsh]

I’ve read the 1979 NIV all of my Christian walk. I love it…I love the KJV as well, but I don’t know if I could understand the word as well without my NIV. I have a 2011 as well but I’m always drawn to my old one. Thanks for this ✝️🙏❤️‍🔥

[@markwardonwords]

And do you believe in the deity of Christ? Do you trust in the blood of Christ to save you? I have a reason for asking!

[@2bYshuas]

I do. around 25 yrs ago as a new christian I struggled especially with OT 'thees and thous" and got a NIV. It truly helped me. I moved back to KJV and some NKJV. I truly love the Psalms in KJV and have primarily remained in that version with some reading of the "easy to read version". After your message on CSB, I will look at that too and not be 'afraid' to use NIV. Yes, I heard the warnings about it even from the pulpits... I seek Jesus and to know Him better and follow Him only, not man. I love listening to you and thank you@@markwardonwords

[@samanthagraveswalters8443]

Love your videos

[@markwardonwords]

Many thanks!

[@timcarr6401]

A superlative presentation. It was very meaningful to me. I appreciate your careful thoughtfulness. I have some very minor disagreements. You said 'The ESV doesn't use inclusive language." It certainly does --much more than the 1984 NIV. But the ESV uses less than the 1969 Modern Language Bible. The latter was my favorite before I went with the 1984 NIV in 1998. I do think that the 2011 NIV uses the correct amount of and usage of inclusive language. The Collins word bank determined how much they used in the translation as you referenced. The 2011 NIV and TNIV are the translations I use quite regularly. The NLT is my next favored one. I also make use of the NET, NJB, REB, Goodspeed, Norlie, Weymouth, ESV, NASB2020, MLB and the CEB (sparingly).

[@markwardonwords]

A good friend of mine made the same point. I can see that. I need to think about this more. I may be wrong on that point!

[@panamaprincess1]

Hi! What do you mean when you use the term "Radical Feminists"? Thank you

[@markwardonwords]

I'm happy enough with the Wikipedia definition: "Radical feminism is a perspective within feminism that calls for a radical re-ordering of society in which male supremacy is eliminated in all social and economic contexts." I like Louise Perry on this topic-very insightful.

[@panamaprincess1]

@@markwardonwords Thanks for the reference!

[@davecrawford4377]

Great 👍 job as usual Mark 👏 another great episode, you explained everything very well about the NIV and NIRV.. I'll be honest it's not favorite translation. God Bless 🙌 🙏 ❤

[@markwardonwords]

Thanks for watching!

[@omarkamal5017]

Would you put the NLT in the same category as the NIV and would the things you said about the NIV apply to the NLT also? I find the NLT much easier to understand the NIV

[@markwardonwords]

Yes, I would. I really do plan to make a "The NLT Is the Best Bible Translation" video!

[@omarkamal5017]

@@markwardonwords thank you, I would love that

[@thetickedoffpianoplayer4193]

I'm curious about how the NIRV handles those long sections of begats and the passages of big ol' long lists. That's always been the part that trips me up most in the Bible, especially because I use audio, and I don't think that was ever meant to be read aloud. I could see someone at the NIRV reading level getting really frustrated when they get to those parts.

[@markwardonwords]

Interesting question! Check it out and let me know!

[@thetickedoffpianoplayer4193]

@@markwardonwords Okay, I just found an audio version of the NIRV. The begats are still hard to listen to, especially since that reader pronounced the Hebrew names like you would say them in English. I have audio/tactile synesthesia, and that jaz feels really weird. I would have a hard time if I had to read it in Braille, because I'd be all obsessed with trying to figure out the Hebrew pronunciation.

[@MartinLujanJr.-th4zw]

Just got me an NIV I am excited to start reading it

[@RandomTChance]

I couple it with the New Living Translation for better understanding. 🙏🕊️🙏

[@RandomTChance]

The Blue Letter Bible app is a great resource. ✌️🤠

[@armchairtheologicalpiper4967]

Thank you for the message and the explanation. I have both the TNIV and the ESV in hard bound and Logos. I aways use more than one translation, but you still have to do your research on the translation. It is like ice cream. You like a variety of flavors. (sorry for the bad analogy).

[@markwardonwords]

No, that’s good!

[@krissaundersjoinery2881]

Mark. The niv translation is really weighing on me. I think it's a good idea to have a word for word which I have esv. But I would like to have also a thought for thought dynamic but im worried about niv. I've watch Daniel B Wallace and lije yourself he is a very clever man, he says the niv is very accurate and unbiased and to use his words nothing regards the translation was done in the corner. Whats your thoughts on this bible. Is it accurate? Is it worth it or stick with esv? Or do you advise a different thought for thought? Many Thanks

[@markwardonwords]

I have read the NIV multiple times. It is an excellent translation that is somewhat less literal than the ESV. It is still a translation: it is not perfect. But its imperfections are incredibly unlikely to lead you astray-especially if you are using a more literal translation alongside it.

[@krissaundersjoinery2881]

@markwardonwords but is it trustworthy accurate or do you think there's better options? Thanks

[@markwardonwords]

@@krissaundersjoinery2881 It is trustworthy and accurate. But the CSB is a "better option" for one reason: not as many people hate it. You won't have to suffer blows to your trust from constant efforts to discredit it. I might go for the CSB if I were you.

[@krissaundersjoinery2881]

@markwardonwords Thanks Mark. I did think of the CSB. Seem to be highly rated but a lot say its got a southen baptist bias?

[@markwardonwords]

@@krissaundersjoinery2881 I've never seen anyone present actual evidence of that, and you might enjoy my video on the topic. Just search my channel!

[@wordsofthislife8073]

Enjoyed your talk in this video Mark. Truly we have an embarrassment of riches when it comes English translations of the Bible. I'm not a regular reader of the NIV but I agree it is useful in reading and comprehending larger sections of the Bible especially OT narrative. I enjoyed your thoughts on the gender question in translation work. One problem I've had with the 2011 is in Psalm 8 where "Son of Man" was changed to "human beings" and the corresponding pronoun from "Him" to "they." Considing the well known messianic usage of the term as a divine name and used that way in apostolic writing of the NT see Hebrews 2. This had kind of hindered me in recommending it. Ive always wondered why they went with that rendering in Psalm 8. Anyway I recognize every translation has its specific glitches. Thanks for you ironic presentation - we need more of that.

[@markwardonwords]

I can see this. But then I think that the connection is visible going back the other direction; that is, someone reading Heb 2 can easily look up Ps 8. I tend to think that a minimal level of education on what more functional translations do and what more formal translations do will arm Bible readers sufficiently to see what's going on. On balance, though, and before I do further work to verify what the NIV translators were thinking, I do tend to think I'd prefer to keep "son of man" (not "Son of Man") in Psalm 8.

[@wordsofthislife8073]

* irenic

[@markwardonwords]

@@wordsofthislife8073, I figured! =)

[@henrymalinowski5125]

On the guys-gals front. I have a lady friend who is the oldest of three sisters. During my time hanging out with them, I’ve lost count of how many times they refer to each other as “bro”.

[@markwardonwords]

A good example of what I mentioned!

[@lonnieclemens8028]

Thank you Mark. I love my NIV2011 Buffalo Hide Thompson Chain Reference Bible. It even has comfort print.

[@markwardonwords]

Love it!

[@datchet11]

What makes me sick is that there was a time when people longed to have a bible in English and giving their lives to get it such as William Tyndale and know we have countless bible translations and we are all fighting and arguing over it, instead of doing what it says its really sad.

[@markwardonwords]

I agree!

[@datchet11]

@@markwardonwords I know you do, have a watch of this kzbin.info/www/bejne/rYacnY2Fmcl4fNk

[@onehundredN80degrees]

Some see psalm 1:1 as messianic, how come that perspective wasn't taken into account?

[@markwardonwords]

A good question. I acknowledge I did not consider it in the video. In a sense, every model person in Scripture-the wise person, the honest person, the chaste person-is fulfilled only in Christ. In my judgment-and before I preached the passage, I'd do more work on this question-Psalm 1 is not so clearly Messianic that it's important to retain "man" in 1:1 in every translation. But I'm happy that some translations do retain it, so that exegetical possibility can occur to people.

[@jerryavalos9610]

I have various translations. I like the NIV for its readability and reading large amounts of scripture in a short time.

[@markwardonwords]

Yes, me too!

[@miarfesoya953]

I really love NIV translation ever since. Its the translation I can easily read and understand. Praise the Lord! May I ask if anybody have an old or used leather NIV/ESV bible? Can I buy it for cheaper price it's quite expensive here in my place. I really love to have one, a leather bible, it's my dream🙏

[@michaelanthis2644]

Mark, thanks for your humility and fair analysis in all your videos! I really enjoy them! I'm a lifetime SBC member and I love the NIV (despite being the minority now amongst church members who use more formal translations). Do you have a preference for the NIV 1984 or 2011? Do you think the 84 or 11 is more memorable (for scripture memory purposes)? Thanks again!

[@markwardonwords]

No strong preference. I just like more recent paper editions because of superior typography, so that would put me in the 2011 camp. And I see no appreciable difference in memorability.

[@michaelanthis2644]

Thanks for quick response. My main issue is memorability. For years (I'm 45) I've been trying to fully move to the 2011 because of its accuracy. But I have so many verses/passages memorized in the old 84 NIV that it causes me to stick with it. So just confused. Half of me wants to "cut the cord" and the other half does not. Any advice or suggestions?@@markwardonwords

[@apmcrobert2270]

Thanks, Mark. A very good summary. I found myself going back and forth while listening. A question, if I may. What do you think of the change to Genesis 1:27 in the NIV2011? I can accept pronoun changes in places where the meaning is unclear due to changes in English, but I don't see the change to Genesis 1:27 as fitting those conditions. It already has "them" at the end of the verse. It was that particular translation choice that caused me to suspect the reasoning behind pronoun changes in other places in the NIV. Can you see how that particular change is justified or could it be merely an overzealous translator?

[@markwardonwords]

Good question. I do not have a solid opinion off the top of my head; this is not one I've looked into. Just one minor point: the KJV does something similar (?) in Psalm 12:7. It takes "them … him" and turns it into "them … them." My initial hypothesis going into this question would be that that's what the NIV translators have done: they've quietly adjusted the translation to the expectations of English grammar. But I'd have to look at commentaries and grammars to be sure of this hypothesis, or to establish another one. Saving this in my files! Do you have access to any exegetical Hebrew commentaries on Genesis?

[@apmcrobert2270]

Not personally, but I have friends who will have some. I wonder if they'll back my view that the verse provides biblical and theological precedent for the generic masculine 😊.

[@markwardonwords]

@@apmcrobert2270 I'm a complementarian-who is skeptical that you're going to get this clearly from that passage. I do think that, even in a less literal translation like the NIV, I'd have said "him" instead of "them" there. But it's such terse language…

[@apmcrobert2270]

​@@markwardonwords, I think many scholars today would be skeptical of what Paul gets from the Creation narrative if it weren't in Scripture 😄. Every jot and tittle 😁 (I guess I should add that I don't base that view on this verse alone).

[@carpetpro9903]

Thank you Mark for this about the niv translation, I am so tired of people putting down the Niv, saying it is missing certain verses, and its satanic, I believe it to be God inspired regardless of how some people who are ignorant of the truth! Thank you for your videos!❤

[@markwardonwords]

My pleasure.

[@carpetpro9903]

Hi Mark , Question, could you suggest a comeback to people who say the Niv is missing scriptures and some of the negativity that is going around , in a simplistic way, if possible? Thank you

[@markwardonwords]

@@carpetpro9903 I've got a video on that! Hope this helps! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hHLUloynpZVgbdE

[@dustinburlet7249]

One of the best uses of the NIV is how it is 'keyed' (via the G/K numbers) to an abundance of lexical tools. In fact, as far as I am aware, no other translation and no other numbering systems (including the Tyndale one employed by the NLT Study Bible, for example) has as many resources connected to it (such as the NIDOTTE, NIDNTTA, NIDNTTE, The Revised Expositors Bible Commentary Series, The Cornerstone Biblical Commentary Series, all of the Zondervan produced English-Hebrew or English-Greek Concordances, and so on). For this reason, which I do not believe was mentioned by Mark in an otherwise excellent video, the NIV may be the best translation of choice for some (and this despite the proliferation of online and other digital tools)

[@markwardonwords]

This is an excellent, excellent point! I've never used G/K numbers, because I haven't needed to. I can go straight to the Hebrew and Greek in Logos. That's why I overlooked this great point!

[@ccchhhrrriiisss100]

Great video, Mark! BTW, do you live near the Bay Area? I live in Palo Alto; but, we visit and hike Land's End in San Francisco. It's a great hiking area!

[@markwardonwords]

No, I just visited once with my wife and brought my camera gear!

[@coonplatoon]

I'm personally partial to the NLT translation. But I enjoy my NIV book as well

[@markwardonwords]

Enjoy!

[@nobodyspecial1852]

Some translations have more punch than others, the current NLT "hits". I agree with most of the interpretive liberties and such, yeah some people don't like them doing some steering and it sounds bad, but almost everytime I research their efforts I agree. Galatians 5:11 mutilation is funny, stuff about various despots in 1 Kings definitely came out clearer and more braveheart style.... that's worth trading for the finer details sometimes.

[@jaysonbryanmutuc76]

I'm wondering if there will be an episode "NLT is the best translation".

[@MAMoreno]

@@glenn1611 I blame the American Bible Society for not making the Good News Bible available in a variety of editions. When I recently purchased some copies for my students in a high school Bible class, I found that the options were quite limited (and essentially nonexistent for anyone who wants a premium Bible.) The translation itself is still one of the best of its kind.

[@markwardonwords]

Such an episode is planned!

[@richardvoogd705]

@@MAMoreno I have a copy of the GNB which has been "Anglicised" and have seen an Australian edition. The copy in my library which includes the Apocrypha/Deuterocanonicals in a section between Malachi and Matthew is the American text.

[@migueld5211]

Such a great video Mark, as always. Just for Curiosity, what do you think about the bible versions translated by roman catholics such as NAB(RE), Douay Rheims or Jerusalem Bible? As former roman catholic, I ask myself: Is my Roman catholic family, at least, reading a truthful bible? Keep doing these videos 👏

[@markwardonwords]

This is a great question. I don't have a ton of relevant experience. My impression is that your Roman Catholic family has more than enough gospel in those translations, if they will read them, for them to come to saving faith. I don't agree with the NAB(RE)'s note on the key word in the key paragraph on penal substitution, but I still think there's gospel here: "21 But now[g] the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, though testified to by the law and the prophets, 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction; 23 all have sinned and are deprived of the glory of God. 24 They are justified freely by his grace through the redemption in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God set forth as an expiation,[h] through faith, by his blood, to prove his righteousness because of the forgiveness of sins previously committed, 26 through the forbearance of God-to prove his righteousness in the present time, that he might be righteous and justify the one who has faith in Jesus." When I have checked Catholic translations, I have generally come to feel that they are responsible, even if they come from a bit of a different perspective.

[@migueld5211]

@@markwardonwords Thank you so much for your answer Mark. God bless you.

[@rickc.4723]

Miguel, to be perfectly honest...the NIV is almost identical to the Jesuit bible...most of the passages have been altered or removed all together. Here is an in depth study done by Professor Walter Veith on bible changes you may find interesting and helpful. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iKKldqiufL5qeqs

[@acurisur]

@@rickc.4723 That video is just trying to push the King James Bible as the best English translation, I notice they turned the comments off, probably because the KJV itself has translation errors, owing to the fact that the scholars who translated that version didn't know Greek and Hebrew as well as we do today and they also borrowed heavily from earlier English translations. The scholars who translated the KJV added verses to the Bible that are not present in the original Greek and Hebrew translations, that is why they were removed. The KJV is erroneous, not the other way around. "When comparing the NIV with the King James Version (KJV), it would seem that there are some verses “missing” in the NIV (and other trusted translations such as the CEV, CSB, ESV, GNB, HCSB, NET, NLT, etc.). Actually, that is not the case. In 1611, the translators of the KJV used the best resources available to them at that time. For their day, the King James translation was a monumental achievement. However, one of its shortcomings is that the KJV translation committee of 50 scholars drew heavily on William Tyndale’s New Testament. As much as 80% of Tyndale’s translation is reused in the King James version. Tyndale used several sources in his translation of the Old and New Testaments. For the New Testament, he referred to the third edition (1522) of Desiderius Erasmus’s Greek New Testament, often referred to as the Textus Receptus (“Received Text”). In the years since 1611, many older manuscripts have been discovered and carefully evaluated by scholars. Their conclusion is that the older manuscripts are more reliable. This has given modern translators unprecedented access to manuscripts much closer in time to the original documents. Therefore, translations such as the NIV actually reflect better Bible scholarship than was available in 1611 when the KJV was published. The verses or phrases that appeared in the KJV, but have been “omitted” in most trusted translations today, are not found in the oldest and most reliable manuscripts. Modern translators include or reference them in footnotes. These footnotes are intended to help the reader understand that certain perceived differences in the text are due to improved biblical scholarship. The treatment of these verses has not changed recently and reflects a consensus among the majority of Bible scholars. It is important and comforting to note that no doctrines of the Christian faith are affected by differences between the KJV and translations such as the NIV that follow more reliable sources." www.biblica.com/resources/bible-faqs/why-does-the-niv-bible-omit-or-have-missing-verses/ What I do is not rely on any one translation, I use many different ones and can switch between them instantly on my phone to see what the differences are.

[@rickc.4723]

@@acurisur I would say it's not pushing the KJV...it is showing historical, and documental facts that the KJV is the closest to the original recieved text in existience. In fact, every bible on earth prior to thec1900 carried the exact same doctrine, with the exception on the Jesuit Bible or the Vulgate. I find it interesting, so many claims are made as to the authenticity and accuracy of the...mostly propigated by Rome who uses the gnostic corrupted texts written by Origen from the occult capitol of the ancient world Alexandria. Funny thing is, facts don't lie...the KJV matches the dead sea scrolls with only a letter difference here and there.

[@makarov138]

I think that one of the reasons that Peter said that some of Paul's writings were hard to understand could be that both Peter and John were examined in Acts 4 and were determined to be uneducated and "unlettered." Naturally they had time to learn a common usage in reading and writing during their Apostolic service. However, Paul was a "Pharisee of Pharisees," which required him to have had a higher education than the average person in that day. Paul could write "lawyer ease," while they might not be able to do. And could most probably find some of his writings confusing.

[@user-zw5xh6qf1c]

[ just bought a super gorgeous deluxe cambridge edition of niv about 2 bills and now i realize it was a wise decision thanks to you the gold gilt pages and the morroco leather binding is truly something to behold as well as to hold they claim to be the oldest publishers of the bible in the world no small boast

[@markwardonwords]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@laramiefrank479]

I never thought I'd be an NIV user. I was set on knjv as a teen. I then liked the esv. Then the NASB 2020 caught my eye, but the more I learn about the NIV, the more that I feel that it is readable and accurate and is probably the main translation I'll stick with

[@PeopleoftheFreeGift]

You stated it would take a massive undertaking to shift the entire use of pronouns to change. Isn’t that what is happening right in front of our eyes and being mandated by the culture to refer to those who desire as they who identify as non-binary? Curious what your feelings are about the impact of lgbtq+ pronouns on future Bible translation?

[@markwardonwords]

I think that at this point there is a clear distinction between 1) using (or being legally or just socially required to use) pronouns that obviously do not reflect a person's true sex and 2) using "one" or "people" in a Bible translation instead of "man" when the latter would communicate something gender-specific that the original did not communicate. I will not give in on the former, because I love my trans neighbors. I can't call a square a circle, no matter what pressure is on me.

[@PeopleoftheFreeGift]

@@markwardonwords I agree with you and respect your conviction on this matter.

[@johndeorian6654]

I'm reading through the entire Bible for the first time. I'm using the ESV, but I frequently realize I have no idea what they're saying (Job 41:8-9). Then I reread it in the NIV and suddenly I get it! I think, for someone like me who's trying to understand the big picture, the NIV is really attractive. I don't know enough where small turns of phrase are a big deal because I'm still learning the broad strokes.

[@markwardonwords]

An excellent plan. Then, when you get to know the Bible better, come back through and puzzle through the things that appear different in the ESV. Ask yourself why they differ. You'll run into some good Bible study journeys that way.

[@triciamaddoxbehncke4191]

1:49 2:09 😂 music man influece there, hilarious. Did you practice that long? I love NIV. I probably already said this somewhere, but I'm finding NIrV great for my adult daughter, who has a disability.

[@markwardonwords]

So glad to see someone else enjoying the NIrV!

[@SirMillz]

Reads beautifully! It's not the best for deep study. Ive went to my knees in tears of contrition as the Holy Spirit moved in me from reading verses in the NIV. Yes, I'd much rather read a CSB, NASB2020 or ESV today, but in the 80s and 90s, those didn't exist. Great video and explanation!

[@markwardonwords]

Thank you!

[@pattube]

I really appreciated Mark Ward's section on the debate over inclusive language in the NIV 2011 (beginning at approximately 15:00 and ending at approximately 32:00). It's a great contribution to the debate. A plea for peace indeed! And I agree with all that Ward has said here. I especially appreciate Ward framing the debate around the following four questions: 1. Is it true that a generic reference was intended by the Spirit speaking by the tongue of David? Did the Spirit intend to speak of males or of mankind excluding women? 2. Is it true that "Blessed is the man" is now in fact now understood by the average non-ideological reader to mean "Blessed is the male"? Has English changed? 3. If the Spirit did intend to specify males, did he do so because of linguistic or because of theological reasons? That is, does this passage say "Blessed is the man" in Hebrew (and it does) because that's the word, ish, that was used in such circumstances around the time, or because "man" is what Poythress and Grudem call a "representative generic"? Is it important to maintain "man" here in order to preserve the truth that the man was not created for the woman but the woman for the man or that the man was created first? Or is that reading too much into a merely linguistic choice? 4. If English has changed, and man is no longer generic in contexts like Psalm 1:1, has it changed because of ideological pressure from feminists or due to natural forces within the language?

[@markwardonwords]

Yes! Thank you for doing this!

[@Asher0208]

So many in the world do not ave access to a Bible they can read in this world. I praise God for having the priviedge of having a NIV. I have grown and learnt so much using it in the last 40 years. Yes, there are other versions that are better in one area or another. But I enjoy its balenced approach and I think it has served me well.

[@markwardonwords]

Right!

[@lukewagner8871]

If you want to study to be approved, 2 Ti 2:15, then the Strong's Concordance is a must for examining word definitions of the Hebrew and Greek words that all Bible translations are translated from. And the only Bible that is keyed to the Strong's Concordance is the King James version.

[@markwardonwords]

Luke, actually other Bibles are keyed to Strong's, too-sort of. It's a bit complicated to explain. In Logos you can look up Hebrew and Greek words from any major English translation. But actually, that word "study" in 2 Tim 2:15. What does it mean? Are you sure you know? I always thought I did, but I was wrong! I encourage you to watch my video on it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKvKnpxsfpd7f6c

[@lukewagner8871]

@@markwardonwords Do you know Mark, that is the first time I looked up the Strongs Concordance definition for the Greek word translated into English word study. I see the point you are making. But I think Paul makes clear about what he means by study he writes in the next chapter. 2 Timothy 3:14-17 KJVS [14] But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them ; [15] And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. [16] All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: [17] That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. Granted the end target is to be found in Christ at the first resurrection. It requires due diligence to allow the Spirit to grow the fruit of the spirit in you. Symbiosis of both parties. Romans 8:13 KJVS [13] For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. Mark, you may find some value in my website. Read the first article and see if you want to read on. There may be insight on subject matter for future videos for you. www.justifiedfreely.com I have the Tecarta Bible app with Strong’s p, cost 99 cents. The words are underlined and when you tap on them you can open the Strong’s and Thayer definitions

[@markwardonwords]

​@@lukewagner8871, I checked out your site. May the Lord use you to bless his people! Another dictionary you might get is Louw-Nida's NT lexicon.

[@Me2Lancer]

Thank you for addressing the NIV and NirV translations and their associations with gender inclusivity considerations. Most of my peers read the NIV 1984 most of the time. I read it as well, yet most of the translations I read are more literal. I'll admit that after purchasing the NIV 1911 seeing "brothers and sisters," instead of brothers came as a big surprise. Arguments like yours help me appreciate the merits of this inclusivity.

[@markwardonwords]

There aren't maybe a ton of people in my conservative environs who are defending gender inclusivity. But if Carson can do it… So can I! ;)

[@Me2Lancer]

@@markwardonwords I just watched this video again. I must say that I admire your compassion for recognizing the merits of using a simplified translations for those with reading difficulties. Thank you for that and God bless.

[@Asher0208]

We are so priviledged to have the Bible in our language. I have done ok reading the NIV all theses years. I use other versions as well but the NIV has been a blessing to me.

[@markwardonwords]

Amen!

[@mike245401]

I actually think the nirv is better than the niv. For the way it breaks down passages and gives a clear dumbed down (excuse the expression) translation. I use it beside the Nkjv. When i need to break down a passage or several passages to give a clear understanding to people. Sometimes i think it's dumbed down to much. But can something be dumbed down to much? Still in my opinion a great tool to use for clarity. So I give it a 👍 up😊

[@reneedavis9438]

What a wonderfully informative video. Thank you so much. 39:21

[@markwardonwords]

Glad it was helpful!

[@windpeoples]

Very thought-provoking. I will now have to buy (and read) an NVI (the Spanish equivalent of the NIV). I have been too proud to do so in the past. God forgive me.

[@markwardonwords]

My Spanish isn't as good as my English, but I had the NVI for years until I lost it somehow. I remember liking it!

[@pattube]

Although the English translation I most love and use in my personal life is the ESV, I have a tremendous amount of respect and appreciation for the NIV including the NIV 2011. The NIV was the English translation by which God saved me, and it's the first English translation I read in its entirety. My main issue with the NIV 2011 is not that it uses gender inclusive language, which I don't have a principled objection to (in fact I think it is often more accurate, e.g., "brothers and sisters" when it's clear women are included), but rather the degree to which it uses gender inclusive language. That is, I would've preferred the NIV 2011 to have scaled back on its gender inclusive language use. For example, I would've preferred less frequent use of the singular plural pronoun ("they", "them") for third person masculine singulars ("he", "him"). That's because, even if its use is linguistically defensible (which I think it is), it more often than not sounds stylistically clunky to my ears, and as a consequence it makes for a less smooth reading experience to me as well; yet readability or clarity and naturalness is one of the NIV's best hallmarks. (As a side note, I sometimes imagine the CSB wouldn't have been necessary or at least it wouldn't have been as successful as it is now (at least within the SBC) if the NIV 2011 had been more conservative in its gender inclusive language use.) There are other issues I have with the NIV (e.g. I think "meaningless" for hebel in Ecclesiastes is a poor translation), but every translation has similar issues. Anyway, all this notwithstanding, I still very much like and use the NIV 2011. And one of the biblical scholars I most respect, Don Carson, says he really likes the NIV and regularly uses it all the time. See Carson's comments regarding the NIV here for example (starting at around 2:25): kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6nCeXifdrJ8ldksi=02jffXqAL-_j1pJZ&t=145

[@freethinker9210]

Wonderful video. I appreciate your balanced and thoughtful perspective. I can't help but wonder though, with the forced feeding of transgenderism and the false notion of genders other than male and female to our children, will gender neutral verbiage in the Bible used to subvert the Word of God?

[@markwardonwords]

Fallen people will twist all good things in sinful directions. I have this fear, too. But it takes a terrible effort to twist the Bible like this, “brothers and sisters” or no.

[@Rawkabilly57]

I really enjoyed your breakdown of the gender inclusive debate. Over all I agree with you, most of the time it doesn't bother me when it makes sense that the author is talking to more than just men. But you also touched on something that I do think is compelling from the other side of the argument and that's the male representational theological idea. And to some degree we still do this in contemporary English when we refer to the whole of humanity "mankind". And I think that should be preserved. However, that's what multiple translations do!

[@markwardonwords]

Right! And surely good Christians can disagree on this point!

[@CyndiMiller]

I really like the NIV Bible. I've been reading it since zondervan put it out years ago. I listen to only NIV when I listen to the audio Bible. Thank you for this informative video, I truly appreciate it. 😊 P. S. I was also told that it was a devilish version of the Bible, which is bologna.🙄

[@kennethwilson3441]

That was great!! do you live in SF?

[@markwardonwords]

No-was just visiting with my wife!

[@benhughesky]

MUSIC MAN - well done Prof Hill

[@markwardonwords]

Ha! My pleasure!

[@TheJesusNerd40]

NIrV better than 1978, 1984, 2011 NIV and TNIV 2005?

[@markwardonwords]

The NIrV is better for certain people in certain circumstances. It was better for me when I pastored a small congregation of functionally illiterate adults.

[@goodjohnjr]

The NIrV (New International Reader's Version) is easier to understand / read than those, it is written at about a third grade reading level, the others that you mentioned were written at about a seventh grade reading level. If you want a bible that most people can understand / read, I would recommend giving the NIrV a try, especially a large or giant print version.

[@BenMordecai]

If the argument is that English has changed, its important to realize that this change was not an accident, but a targeted revolutionary movement to mold language around ideologies. If we allow Bible translations to follow English wherever it goes, we allow the enemies of the truth to be setting the agenda for Bible translation. In Christian speech, we ought to always set an example of using speech in a way that establishes Biblical truth, rather than merely aiding understanding. Ultimately the core argument here is based on functionality, not fidelity. It's not the translation's job to make my job easy as a reader. It's the translation's job to give me God's word in English, faithfully. If I struggle with comprehension, there are a myriad of secondary tools I could use and I have no problem at all with the idea that people would use secondary tools like commentaries, study notes, devotionals, sermons, and so forth to aid their understanding.

[@markwardonwords]

Brother, I think I show in this video that I'm open to the argument in your first paragraph. But I'm left wondering if you actually heard what I said. This doesn't seem to be a response to what I said-or am I missing something? I used to follow the argument in your second paragraph, and I think it does have some relevance. In other words, I think the NIV does sometimes draw the line too far toward interpretation. But then I think the ESV, KJV, NKJV, and NASB sometimes draw the line too far toward preserving Hebrew and Greek forms at the cost of intelligibility. So I'm glad I have both kinds of translations. I wouldn't be happy if I had only the one, now that I know I can have both. (I also get the sense that your second paragraph is not an answer to anything I actually said-but please do correct me if I'm wrong!)

[@nobodyspecial1852]

I think you want people to call them study guides not bibles, remember the persecution the Catholics and Anglicans used to establish doctrinal tyranny, and God's kingdom wasn't furthered by it. Why not Latin only, why not Aramaic and Koine Greek, how about poors shouldn't have bibles? How do you feel about study bibles and reference bibles, they're not purely the word.... and is the word the books as written by human hands or the message and intent of Almighty God? The word predated bibles....

[@djpodesta]

I was disappointed when I found that I could only purchase the 2011 version within my electronic suite… but once I looked at the changes… I decided that my disappointment was unfounded. Paragraphs suit my reading style quite well.

[@markwardonwords]

Yes, paragraphs! Love 'em!

[@djpodesta]

@@markwardonwords Plus… it is easier to go over scripture context when people grab one verse to justify a ‘new’ revelation.