Why I Switched to Berean Standard Bible (My Honest Review)

[@keithferrin]

QUESTION OF THE DAY: What is your favorite translation?

[@kolsonmaddox777]

I love the NASB20 along with the 95. Recently I’ve been interested in the BSB and CSB.

[@kdf]

I've heard the new NASB20 is great. Definitely check out the BSB and CSB. They're both terrific!@@kolsonmaddox777

[@LIGHTBEARER4JESUS777]

I have used the NASB95 for 37 years. Although I have a ton of versions on my LOGOS software. I also use my interlinear Bibles for Indepth study.

[@keithferrin]

You can definitely spend LOTS of time comparing with Logos! Great software!@@LIGHTBEARER4JESUS777

[@richardvoogd705]

For many years, my usual "go to" translation has been the NKJV. In recent years, I have been open to using others, including CSB and NIV.

[@MariaSantana-hx4bb]

Very Interesting! I was considering going back to my BSB translation as well. I purchased their 1st edition when it came out a couple years ago. NKJV is my primary translation, however the BSB smooths out some of the difficult to understand passages while maintaining the traditional familiarity of the NKJV. I just wish they offered a wide margin for notes. Gotta get this BSB translation better known so we can get the big names to create more options for the rest of us. Great review! God bless ❤

[@keithferrin]

I agree! I love my "notetaking Bible." I would love a thinner "preaching" Bible too. Hopefully the new ones will keep coming!

[@pamcadd8658]

Thanks for introducing us to the Berean Bible. I'd like to see it available in a single column wide margin journaling format (I have an NIV with these 2" margins, and it's great for studying and making notes), as well as interleaved format for those who want to add extensive notes and artwork.

[@keithferrin]

Me too! I love my CSB Legacy Notetaking Bible for that very reason!

[@vbetta8979]

Yes and it has to have leather so it doesn't just fall apart. Big font. And if one could be spoiled... gold on the edges so it stays clean looking.... ❤

[@cameronsnodgrass5883]

I bought a BSB last year and it has been my go to for just reading. It reads so smooth but it accurate to the Greek as well. It’s printed in the USA which is awesome! I recommend the BSB to everyone I talk to about bibles to. It’s great to read along my NKJV. But I would recommend it being just a do it all as well .

[@keithferrin]

It's quickly become my "go to" as well. So good!

[@nhbiblesociety9671]

That's a big deal -- putting it into public domain. wow! Thanks for pointing us in that direction.

[@keithferrin]

Absolutely huge! It opens up the door to create SO many resources!

[@krisshiplet4497]

Man you just converted me to CSB last year! Now trying to win us over to BSB lol. No, I appreciate this and I’ll definitely give it a deeper look.

[@keithferrin]

Hahaha. They're BOTH fantastic translations for sure! If you're creating resources, the "public domain" aspect of the BSB is the "tipping point" in favor of the BSB.

[@krisshiplet4497]

@@keithferrin I’ve downloaded it on the Bible app and read a few chapters in it.

[@shalyntybo3739]

This was an excellent recommendation Bible and comparison of versions video

[@keithferrin]

Thanks Shalyn! Glad you liked it. Great translation!

[@sonofZeruiah]

It’s my opinion that going forward, everyone attempting to publish a Bible resource or other Christian book will quote the BSB which in turn will cause the BSB to become nearly ubiquitous. That in turn will drive sales. Which in turn will cause all the other copyrighted Bible translations to take notice and say “hey, we’re losing sales because everyone is switching to the BSB. Maybe we should also release our version to public domain as well.”

[@keithferrin]

Hmmm....Wouldn't that be something?!?!

[@captiosus_77]

An optimistic hope but if that were going to happen, it would have already happened with the World English Bible, which has been in the public domain a LOT longer than the BSB.

[@Heather5073-hr1jw]

thanks for the info- looks like a great version!

[@keithferrin]

It's really good! Check it out and let me know what you think!

[@lbd0723]

They also have fantastic translator notes. And I appreciate how much they have tried to stay as neutral as possible with their textual notes.

[@keithferrin]

I completely agree! The transparency of their translation process (with free access to the full translation tables) is a huge plus!

[@jimmyleavesacomment]

Great video! I been reading the BSB on You Version and I love it! I wanted to buy the leather BSB, but I can't afford it. Of course I could get the Hard Cover, but I love my Bible in leather. I've read from the CSB which feels familiar to the NLT, My Church reads from the ESV. But the BSB feels like a balance between NLT/ESV. So my hope is one day to afford a BSB Leather Bible. Until then I use Youversion/Bible Hub. The BSB is easy to read/understand while staying true to the original text.

[@keithferrin]

I agree. The BSB is a great “middle ground” of the other mainstream translations. Press on!

[@sharonandrews2568]

I just started reading the BSB recently. So far I like what I see. Flows easily. Although I love the NKJV and NASB95, they sometimes sound like Yoda. The BSB does a good job of putting familiar passages in more natural sounding sentence structure and word choices without making it sound foreign to someone who is used to the traditional readings.

[@keithferrin]

Agreed! It reads so well. And since I almost always read out loud, that's very important to me!

[@robertkeith7274]

First of all, I'm a HUGE fan of the Bible Hub; it's my go to for more in depth study. I'm currently using the NKJV as my everyday reading and study Bible, though I have an ESV and I love the way it reads so smoothly. The BSB seems to me to be every bit as good as the ESV, I guess it depends upon personal preference. I can't recommend the Bible Hub enough. I had a co-worker try to turn me on to it for awhile, so I finally checked it out, and I can't imagine Bible study without being able to access all it's features - not the least of which is access to roughly 40 different English translations, with an interlinear keyed to Strong's. What I also find so helpful is the half-dozen or so commentaries which contain so much good information.

[@keithferrin]

@@robertkeith7274 I agree. BibleHub is SO helpful!

[@JudithBrooks-d8v]

Thanks for grabbing my attention and Bible Hub is the best!

[@keithferrin]

@@JudithBrooks-d8v BibleHub is SO good!!

[@robertkeith7274]

LOVE Bible Hub!

[@keithferrin]

@@robertkeith7274 Me too!

[@nsj2kx]

I love the BSB. It’s become my favorite translation. It reads so well and is so easy to understand.

[@keithferrin]

Agreed!

[@rosecato7755]

Hey, I just recently got the BSB, I think a week or two ago. I absolutely LOVE it. I just miss having the references next to the verses. I really like my references. 😊 I also have been using the CSB in the last year or so and have been using it along with 1995 NASB. Grew up with KJV and NKJV, so have used many translations over the years.

[@keithferrin]

Yup. One of the downsides of NOT having a big publisher behind it is that there aren't a bunch of different styles/formats to choose from. We can dream... ;)

[@thedrumssayyes]

I don't have a BSB, but I have adopted the NET - very similar stuff. The difference is the full notes NET is different than any other translation. I love it.

[@keithferrin]

I have heard great things about the NET. Press on!

[@AndyB35042]

This is fantastic news, thanks for sharing, and thank you so much, and God bless the BSB creators.

[@keithferrin]

My pleasure! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

[@lrwilliamsjr]

Fantastic translation! I found it to fit nicely between the ESV and CSB in terms of readability. Picked up a physical copy in genuine leather but wasn't happy with the quality so I exchanged it for a copy in the Tosca Cowhide. If you're going to invest in a physical copy that's the way to go.

[@keithferrin]

So glad you like it. Yes...with the NIV, NLT, ESV and CSB being 4 of my all-time favorites, I find the BSB is about as perfect a "blend" as you'll find!

[@timhuguenin]

the NET bible had a similar translation process with a lot of feedback given and considered. Their Full Notes Edition is an amazing resource and look into the minds of the translators. They also have a similarly free-use sort of license, even though I don't think it's technically in the public domain

[@keithferrin]

You're right. Good translation. As for licensing, churches can use it. But if you're putting it in a book (or want to print/share a whole book of the Bible) you can't do it. With the BSB, I can use it, print it, share it, etc. Blessings!

[@summermartin1705]

Definitely looking into this… thanks!

[@keithferrin]

My pleasure. I think you'll really like it!

[@kenfhill84083]

Thanks. The BSB is available in Logos and in freebie theWord (TW). The TW version is tagged for Strong's numbers and also for morphology.

[@keithferrin]

Now that it's in the Public Domain, it's showing up in so many more places. I'm thrilled. It's a great translation!

[@DanS-kh4tc]

BSB has one of the best text layouts of any translation

[@keithferrin]

Agreed! How did you "discover" the BSB?

[@DanS-kh4tc]

@@keithferrin Through Utube bible reviews.

[@keithbryner40]

The BSB is my main Bible now and is the one I'm using for Bible memory. I'm using Verse Locker as one of my review apps which has the BSB as a translation. I've been an NKJV and NASB '95 guy for many years, and the BSB feels like home... with just a touch of NIV '84. I hope the publisher produces a large print single column like Holman's single column large print of the CSB. I wonder if Tyndale would pick up the BSB. It would be a great compliment to the NLT.

[@keithferrin]

I agree. Believe it or not, I looked into what it would take to have a BSB Bible printed. Looks like I'd have to get 1,000 printed...at a cost of about $14,000. Hmmm... :)

[@lunchandlearn]

I recently discovered the BSB and I really like it. The CSB is my daily reader (supplemented by the ESV) but I’ve found that the BSB is great for memorization.

[@keithferrin]

All 3 of those are GREAT translations!

[@scribnermj]

very interesting analysis.

[@keithferrin]

Thanks. Let me know what you think if/when you check it out.

[@rolandfourie3224]

Hi Keith. Are you rememorising the wording of all the scripture you have previously learnt using the NIV 1984 text? That's probably the biggest reason I'd be hesitant to change versions.

[@keithferrin]

@@rolandfourie3224 I’m not relearning all of it, but I am relearning some. And yes…it’s hard! 😜

[@jesuschristbiblebiblestudy]

The BSB is the only version at this time it appears, that is Public domain. BSB is a great translation, and you can use it alongside others (Nasb, esv, nkjv, etc). Blessings. Pastor John

[@keithferrin]

Thanks John.

[@4321_dcba]

I'm pretty sure the NET is public domain. It was done by Dallas Theological Seminary, although they don't advertise that fact.

[@keithferrin]

@@4321_dcba It doesn't look like it. It appears they renewed their copyright status in 2019. netbible.com/copyright/

[@captiosus_77]

The World English Bible is public domain as well and has been there for years.

[@keithferrin]

@@captiosus_77 Thanks for letting me know!

[@shellimccormack]

I like the MEV, and Simplified King James. I just wish they had them in a study bible format and cross references.

[@keithferrin]

I agree. Some of the reference tools and printed options are lacking with the "lesser known" translations. One of the drawbacks of not having a huge publisher behind it.

[@jocelyn4981]

Looks super cool and I can't wait to try it -- but the print version only comes in normal sized font! Wah!

[@keithferrin]

Yup. That's one of the drawbacks of being "public domain" and NOT backed by a huge publisher. It's VERY expensive to print Bibles and so the BSB (for now at least) doesn't come in very many options.

[@jocelyn4981]

Kind of makes that "read the physical copy" thing you suggested in another video I just watched difficult for us "my optic nerve hates me" people. 😇

[@keithferrin]

@@jocelyn4981 Hmmm...not sure what to suggest there...

[@jocelyn4981]

Kindle. This translation has audio, and I'll just keep on with my other translations in kindle and stupid-big-font translations in print 😇

[@keithferrin]

@@jocelyn4981 Press on sister!

[@procop4063]

I recently shifted from NASB 95 to NIV ....I find it quite accuate.

[@keithferrin]

@@procop4063 The NIV is what I grew up on. The BSB is similar enough that it “sounds right” in my head. 😃

[@auh2o148]

I recommend everyone using interlinear bibles, especially the ones having the Strong's numbers above the words. This way, you are getting the raw original language before anyone's interpretation starts to cloud things.

[@keithferrin]

Good point. Did you know that the BSB also has made available (also for free) the Berean Literal Bible and the Berean Interlinear Bible for that very reason. You can access them all on this page: berean.bible/downloads.htm

[@auh2o148]

@keithferrin Thanx. But, which of those downloads do you recommend?

[@keithferrin]

@@auh2o148 Since you were talking about interlinear and the original Greek, I would go with the Berean Literal Bible and the Berean Interlinear New Testament. They're all free so have at it! :)

[@auh2o148]

@@keithferrin thx

[@CupofCloud]

I switched from CSB to BSB too

[@keithferrin]

What do you think? Enjoying it?

[@CupofCloud]

​@@keithferrin I love it. It's the main translation that I'm using for my Bible in a Year plan. On my youversion Bible app, I also enjoy the audio BSB too, this translation really sounds great being read aloud. I'm a KJV lover, and I like that while the BSB is a modern translation, the style of English that the translation employs has a 'majestic' (for lack of a better word) feel to it, which is one of the reasons why I like the KJV. CSB, as much as I appreciate it, and was totally all about the CSB when it came out, the English style lacks this quality, though I do appreciate the style of English they went with, and love their text formatting (ie bold text for OT quotes) I appreciate in your video your acknowledgement of the NLT's place in thought-for-thought. I love the NLT. I use the NLT for casual reading devotion, and there's an endearing and unique style of English that they use too. For study these days, I keep these translation tabs open: KJV, BSB, NLT and also NET and Lexham English Bible too (mainly for their translator notes) But yeah, all that said, right now BSB is my favorite. I love the accuracy, readability, and the style of English it features.

[@keithferrin]

@@CupofCloud That's fantastic. If you want to "listen" to it, I'm recording a book at a time, based on the BSB. You can look up "Storyteller Bible" on my channel. Right now, I have Philippians and Ephesians. 2 Timothy comes out next week.

[@CupofCloud]

@@keithferrin Thank you so much for the heads up, I'll check it out!

[@red58impala]

I cut my teeth as a new believer on the NIV84 and used that for years. I then switched to the NASB 77. I liked the Hebrew flavor of the Complete Jewish Bible, a messianic Jewish "translation", and read that for about 10 years. Oddly enough the font shrunk in my Bible and I found it difficult to read. During my journey to find a new translation, I felt it was time to move on from the CJB to something more literal, I stumbled on the HCSB, CSB, ESV, BSB and a variety of others. I read through the HCSB and actually enjoyed my time in that translation... the CSB did nothing for me for some reason. I just couldn't embrace it and it's odd because it is still very similar to the HCSB. All that said I read through the BSB and loved every minute of it. I was reading through various translations to see which ones resonated with me and might be my "one. I decided it was time to start a new read through and I found myself missing the BSB while I was reading the new translation. I think the BSB may well be my one. On the BSB website they do have the whole BSB available for free on audio Bible. Lastly, I was using a BSB I downloaded to my tablet, not sure if it was in an app but I'm thinking it was, and it was loaded with study notes. If I can figure out what app that was, I'll be sure to comment here again for you and your viewers. I prefer no study notes, as I find myself reading those more than the Bible itself, so I turned it off and just kept the Bible text.

[@keithferrin]

Your journey is very similar to mine (except for the part about the CJB). If you download the BibleHub app, the BSB is built in. You can read, listen, or both. Enjoy!

[@ryanburr8419]

From what I've seen it's good translation and I'll probably get a copy. For now I'll probably stick with the CSB and ESV as my primary versions because they are available in many different bible formats, so I find it easier to find editions that suite my needs. My favourite sort of bible is a single column format in a large 12-13pt font with an attractive layout (i.e. text not falling into the gutter) and typography. That's surprisingly hard to find even in mainstream translations. I also enjoy using a journaling bible to slowly create my own personal study bible. Maybe the BSB marketing team can get some different publishers to start making their own editions of the BSB then it's popularity would increase.

[@keithferrin]

That would be great!

[@CompostWatcher]

My group reads from different translations. No one else there has the Berean, so it would be an extra.

[@keithferrin]

You can find it for free inside the YouVersion Bible app, at BibleHub.com or through berean.bible. Enjoy!

[@2Snakes]

The BSB is nice from what I've read of it, however, I don't like the fact that they have not released the full list of translators. Also, I don't see sufficient reason for choosing it over the CSB. Now, I'll throw you a curve ball here: my favorite translation is the NRSVue :)

[@keithferrin]

Yes. That is a curveball. What do you like about the NRSVue? As for the "sufficient reason," I actually don't encourage people to switch UNLESS 1 of 2 things is true. 1. For people (like me) who LOVE the CSB and who grew up on the NIV, I find the BSB to be the perfect "blend" of the two. 2. If you create Bible resources (as I do), the fact that the BSB was put into the Public Domain is HUGE! It removes any barrier to adding it to resources (books, Bible studies, videos, etc.) that we create. But to be clear. I still love and use the CSB as well!

[@2Snakes]

@@keithferrin Sorry for the late response. I like the NRSVue because it has an ecumenical translation team as opposed to strictly evangelical. This safeguards against bias to an extent.

[@keithferrin]

@@2Snakes Interesting. Thanks!

[@davidsutter1846]

Who are the translators?

[@keithferrin]

Hundreds of people from all denominations! They used an open translation process where they allowed people to comment on their translation tables. There was an editorial team of 6 bereanbibles.com/about-berean-study-bible/translation-process/

[@stacyclark5910]

I have used bible hub for quite some time… i have used the BSB for that long also! Our church uses the ESV, so that usually what I study/read from… but the BSB Is always close at hand! Which would you recommend ‘internalizing with? Thanks!

[@keithferrin]

Great question! It's a bit of a "personal preference" question, but for me, while I LOVE to study with the ESV (and recommend their study Bible more than any other) it doesn't "sound right" when I speak it. The BSB is accurate AND it "speaks well." I would say read both of them out loud and see which one feels right as you see/hear it.

[@RobertP_1960]

I have read this translation and like it but it is not easy to get a real nice copy. I have the hardcover version for now. They just are not producing high quality versions yet. NKJV, ESV, and NLT are my go to for different readings..but I do use the CSB when I go camping for switch up.

[@keithferrin]

It's that fine balance between keeping it in the public domain (free) and having a publisher with lots of resources creating different versions. But I agree...I would love a "Thinline" version that was super easy to take with me!

[@Ldgreggbell]

My church is bilingual and uses the NIV, im considering getting a BSB as i prefer a more literal translation. While its not as verbose as the NRSV... Its still pretty good. I too love the CSB, but i prefer a more ESV/NRSV literalness.

[@keithferrin]

That's great. Our church is bilingual as well! Dios te bendiga!

[@Prayer_warrior]

Totally with you on this one Keith. I study multiple translations with deep dives into many passages and love them all. TPT and MSG to KJV and NASB and especially TLB for me personally, have had extended time in many versions - some may say Christ is Living and Active indeed and definitely not stuck in any one place by any stretch of the imagination; but for me if I had to pick one and go, it would definitely be the Berean Standard Bible. It just resonates with our favourite translations and makes The Word of God ❣️ aka Jesus Christ The MESSIAH ( Rev 19:12-13) easily accessible to all. That and the free license... FINALLY, but how Our LORD spoilt us with His final version choice ❤ Wins hands down. An incredible achievement and a beautiful and accurate translation that flows naturally. Blessings to you 🕊️ Michael

[@keithferrin]

Thanks Michael. Comparing translations is one of my all-time favorite ways to begin studying a passage. Have you seen the app "The Parallel Bible?" If not, give it a search. Amazing!

[@Prayer_warrior]

@@keithferrin I will definitely check it out. Thank you 🙏

[@paulreyes7064]

I was wondering if they have a Berean pocket Bible for travel, I have a KJV I carry with me everywhere I go to and from work for example and a Berean pocket Bible would be awesome but I can't find one

[@keithferrin]

I agree. That would be awesome. Unfortunately, so far I think you'll only find the ones they have at www.berean.bible

[@kylemaclachlan9209]

Berean bible, eh? This is new to me. Definitely will check it out. Struggling in my NKJV

[@keithferrin]

I think you'll really like it. LMK what you think!

[@orangemanbad]

What’s interesting to me about the BSB is it used the majority text of manuscripts.

[@keithferrin]

Tell me more. Interesting good, or interesting bad?

[@sergloera]

The Byzantine priority folks would probably find this version appealing just for the simple fact that it doesn’t default to TR or CT. I’ll have to read up on this. 👍

[@keithferrin]

@@sergloera Let me now your thoughts!

[@traderbry]

Keith, would you favor the Berean translation over the Readable Bible translation or vice versa?

[@keithferrin]

Great question. the Berean Standard Bible is my "go to" translation for study, reading, etc. The Readable Bible is a fantastic "reading Bible" and the layout makes it great. Bottom Line: If someone was looking to buy only one Bible, go with the BSB.

[@traderbry]

@@keithferrin Thanks for the reply Keith (I wish I would’ve asked before I placed my Readable order 😂)

[@keithferrin]

@@traderbry I really do think you'll love it! :)

[@captiosus_77]

Like you I grew up with the NIV84. The NIV2011 felt like a completely foreign translation. I've adapted to using the CSB and the NASB2020, but I agree with you that the BSB seems like the closest cousin to the old NIV84. I have it on my Kindle since it was free. I've thought about buying a physical copy but I'm pretty sure my wife would kill me if I order another Bible, especially since we're on a fixed income. 🤣

[@keithferrin]

"Happy wife. Happy life." ;)

[@janetblickle7924]

I enjoy listening to the bible on the Blue letter bible. I wish I had a set of the bible on CD so I could listen to the bible in my car.

[@keithferrin]

I don't know if you have an "AUX" plugin in your car, but you can buy a cable that attaches your smartphone to the AUX and list just like you would on your phone. Just an idea...

[@shirleygoss1988]

I did like this video! I am hoping to get a physical copy of this Bible in the next month or so. I like what I see online of this Bible. I know there are numerous Received Text manuscripts, and that is my preference. I use many versions for comparative purposes. So far, I lean towards the CSB, and the BSB Although I also like the 1984 NIV and the 1995 NASB. I'm not a super fan of the more gender inclusive readings. Contextually, I can usually descern what gender is referred to by the generic term man

[@keithferrin]

Hey Shirley. That's one thing I like about the BSB. Since it's in the public domain, a word translated "brothers" can be read "brothers and sisters." If I'm speaking to a mixed-gender audience, I usually say "brothers and sisters," because that's how I would speak it. If I'm speaking at a men's retreat (as an example) I will leave it "brothers."

[@waynetaylor11]

I have grown to love the NKJV and use it when preaching as well...

[@keithferrin]

I've heard great things about it!

[@MichaelTheophilus906]

Deut 6.4-6, Mark 12.28-32, John 17.3, John 20.17, Rom 15.6, Rom 16.27, I Cor 8.6, II Cor 11.31, I Tim 2.5, Rev 1.5-6, Rev 3.12.

[@Learningthetruth7]

Geneva!! CSB is good, too.

[@keithferrin]

I haven't done much with the Geneva Bible, but I've heard good things.

[@francesvincent793]

I like the NKJV but my top favorite is the MEV BIBLE

[@keithferrin]

I haven't heard of the MEV. Hmmm...

[@Ldgreggbell]

​@@keithferrinThey've just released the 2nd edition on youversion bible app. Its essentially a KJV in contemporary language.

[@marthapruett8008]

Why does the Berean Bible refer to the book of Jashar? (2Timothy 3:8)

[@keithferrin]

Great question! Jannes and Jambres (mentioned by Paul in 2 Timothy 3:8) or talked about in the book of Jashar. The BSB isn't saying the book of Jashar is part of - or equivalent to - the Bible. They're just referencing where those guys are talked about. I believe that's why they put it ONLY in the footnote. Thanks!

[@living_the_mac_and_cheese_life]

Awesome video. Thanks for all the details. I was not familiar with this translation. Public domain makes this very appealing. Subbed 👍

[@keithferrin]

Public domain is a game-changer. Not only can I use it freely, but if there's a specific word/phrase that I like in another translation, I can substitute it without "breaking copyright." Love it! Glad you're here!

[@living_the_mac_and_cheese_life]

@@keithferrin i want to print it out from the pdf on their site and make a study bible binder, but i am afraid of how much ink that will take lol.

[@keithferrin]

@@living_the_mac_and_cheese_life It would take a lot for sure! Might be worth it to print out a "book at a time" as you're reading/studying.

[@living_the_mac_and_cheese_life]

@@keithferrin a great idea. I can save them all in individual binders as I go through them.

[@keithferrin]

@@living_the_mac_and_cheese_life Let me know how it turns out!

[@waynemetcalf4254]

Hello, I have been using the BSB for a year maybe a little longer. I grew up on the NIV also. I saw a few reviews on it and ordered it and haven’t looked back. I kinda see that the NIV has become a little woke and the BSB is holding true. I like it so much I bought a book block and had it rebound.

[@keithferrin]

@@waynemetcalf4254 Glad you like it!

[@normanmcdonald5985]

NASB

[@peteherrera1502]

I have used the NIV as my main bible Translation for many, many years and am now switching from the NIV to the Berean standard bible as my main bible translation of use which I believe to be more accurate than the NIV bible translation because the NIV uses the word "commands" where the word "commandments" should have been used in NIV and is not. For examples. Rev 14:12, John 14:15, 1 John 2:3, 1 John 2:4. John 14:21, John 15:10, 1 John 3:24, 1 John 5:3, 2 John 1:6, to name a few. I wish Zondervan created a Thompson Chain reference bible using the Berean standard bible text. what a great bible that would be.

[@keithferrin]

@@peteherrera1502 The Thompson Chain Reference was my very first study Bible!

[@terry.stafford]

I use the NASB95. I’m very suspect of any recent translation because I don’t know who has been infected by woke society. But I appreciate your assessment and may give it a look.

[@keithferrin]

When it comes to choosing a Bible, skepticism isn't all bad. That said...these are the folks behind BibleHub.com and Discovery Bible. Very solid.

[@pkmcnett5649]

The publisher of the BSB is the publisher of the NASB.

[@keithferrin]

@@pkmcnett5649 Actually, the publisher of the BSB is "BSB Publishers, LLC" and the publisher of the NASB is the "Lockman Foundation." Unless something changed recently.

[@SVHoyt]

Subd_ 👍 Keep Digging. Our knowledge and wisdom on earth is foolisness to God. So there is never enough and God will show us if we prove to really want Heavens Knowledge. You're digging and I love that brother. 👍

[@keithferrin]

Amen. One step further....each day...

[@americanswan]

World English Bible is nice. It is also Public Domain.

[@keithferrin]

Thanks. It seems like a good translation. I find the BSB a bit more "natural" in the way it reads. (Since I almost exclusively read out loud, this is super important to me.)

[@jimjim8253]

I am a KJV fossil but have enjoyed the BSB as it appears to be very clear and thoughtful. While I would like to make a switch, the word for word strength of the KJV retains my loyalty.

[@keithferrin]

I certainly don't have anything against the KJV. I would suggest using the BSB as a "comparison" to get a different perspective. Sort of like asking a friend to "put this in your own words." Press on brother!

[@dooglitas]

Does anyone think it's a bit screwy that in this day and age we have nearly 1000 English Bible translations and that Christians need a "Bible coach" to help them sort through all the confusion and the vast number of English versions to be able to figure out which translation you should use? God is not the author of confusion, so what is wrong with this picture?

[@keithferrin]

I understand the confusion. There are certain more translations than we need. However, there are LOTS of good reasons why we have different ones. Reading level. Language changes over time. Translating anything from one language to another always has nuance to it. Discovery of more manuscripts. To name a few... As for the "Bible coach" part, we get coaches for all kinds of different things we "could" do on our own. Fitness coach. Leadership coach. Life coach. Nutrition coach. CAN you do it on your own? Sure. Will it be better, faster, and more consistent with a coach? Absolutely!

[@dooglitas]

@@keithferrin There are many reasons we have nearly 1000 translations. Few of those reasons I would call "good." In 1971 the Living Bible came out. It reasonably answered the issue of "reading level" and "language changes." It was a simplified paraphrase version. It became quite popular in the 1970s. I had one. I only used it occasionally. The issue of problems with translating one language to another. But that does not justify 1000 translations. I am a 50+ year student of Greek and Hebrew. So I understand that issue very well. However, having many translations does not actually help that problem very much unless you know Greek and Hebrew and can understand the issue. Having different translations for people who do not know Greek and Hebrew only serves to confuse, not help. For centuries the main translation of the English Bible that was commonly available was the KJV. I grew up at a time when this was still mostly true. There were only a handful of translations available, and the KJV was still the most read by far. You could go into any evangelical church, and when a scripture was read, virtually everyone had the same version. That is no longer true. I have noted over the past 67 years since I came to faith in Jesus, how the church has become weaker in knowledge and understanding of and commitment to scripture as more and more translations have come out. And don't even get me started on the issue of manuscripts and variant readings and newer versions that omit verses and even an entire chapter of the Bible which have stood as part of the text of scripture for hundreds of years. Suddenly we are told that the so-called "best manuscripts" do not contain this text. So based upon the word of 6 or 7 individuals, the entire church bows to this decision. This has served to cause not only confusion but distrust of the reliability of the Biblical text. There is less faith and weaker faith today in the English-speaking world than there was when almost everyone had only the KJV to read. I see absolutely no evidence that all these translations have made Christians stronger, more knowledgeable or that they have stronger faith today than Christians had 50-60 years ago. Confusion reigns today, not faith.

[@keithferrin]

@@dooglitas Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Lots to ponder. I don't fully agree...but I DO agree that people are LESS biblically literate or committed than they were. Press on!

[@JS-lv5pn]

LSB is the bible for me.

[@keithferrin]

It's a great update to the NASB...another wonderful translation.

[@JS-lv5pn]

@@keithferrin It is but always check it with KJV, and the original text so far it's okay.

[@samuelm.5752]

Calvinist, John McArthur had his influence on it. Not a fan.

[@JS-lv5pn]

@@samuelm.5752 Fair always check it with the KJV.

[@keithferrin]

@@samuelm.5752 Which one? The LSB or the BSB?

[@peterschmidt6754]

I as an educated pastor I cannot digest many of these dynamic transactions- they continue to dumb down God’s people. I suggest the ESV, NASB, NKJV, LSV, even KJV etc. over the Berean, NIV, CSB, because there a too many important subtleties in the text that the dynamic translations destroy. See for example Jer. 17:7 (NASB or KJV).

[@keithferrin]

@@peterschmidt6754 I appreciate your thoughts and I’m glad you’ve found some great translations that work for you! Thanks for sharing.

[@tjmaverick1765]

I also appreciate how they stuck with traditional gender language.

[@keithferrin]

While I "mostly" agree, I do wish some of the very general uses (like beginnings of Paul's letters) would say "brothers and sisters" when it is clear from the context that the author is speaking to believers in general rather then men in specific. That said, I do appreciate the use of "son" (as an example) when sonship carries a lot of significant weight that "child" would not carry. Thanks!

[@donrwhite]

I agree with Keith. When the context is clearly gender-inclusive, I wish they would use gender-inclusive language. This is the main reason I do not use the BSB for public reading. While I understand that "brothers" is gender-inclusive, some in the audience may not.

[@keithferrin]

@@donrwhite I agree. One of the wonderful things about the BSB, is that it is not in the "public domain," which means you are not breaking any copyright when you say "brothers and sisters" in a public reading. That's what I do!

[@richardwashington421]

And they got Deuteronomy 32:8 right!

[@keithferrin]

I haven't really compared that verse. What incorrect translations of it have you found?

[@sergloera]

@@keithferrin I’d say it’s safe to assume they’re referring to “sons of God” vs “people of Israel”. There’s a lot of folks with itching ears and “teachers” eager to scratch them that insist “sons of God” is a reference to angels and not the people of Israel despite the context of the passage being entirely about the human people of Israel and more significantly despite the fact that the Hebrew very clearly reads “יַצֵּב גְּבֻלֹת עַמִּים לְמִסְפַּר בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל” ben Yisrael being literally “sons of Israel” … some people 😅

[@LegBuilder]

King james

[@MadlyinLovewithJesus-1953]

I can't believe the BSB translates Proverbs 17:8 as "A bribe is a charm to its giver; wherever he turns, he succeeds." I would be okay with something like, "To someone who gives bribes, those bribes are the key to success." I don't know. The BSB translation really bugs me, because too many people could EASILY read the BSB translation as encouraging bribes. (At least to the cherry pickers.)

[@keithferrin]

Hmmm...I find that to be true with at least a verse or two of almost every translation. That's why I think it's important to have a primary translation...AND compare translations. Thanks!

[@MadlyinLovewithJesus-1953]

@@keithferrin Agreed. I've gotten so that daily I am checking verses in at least four different bibles and in some cases a lot more than that. I've had a bit of a grudge against the NIV when I discovered verses a couple of times where translator interpretation was put in with the text parenthetically rather than footnoted, but when I saw that the NIV had one of the BEST translations for Proverbs 17:8 I realized that it was definitely worth getting a copy. And they are not the only ones I have seen put interpretation right into the text. Shockingly, to me, I have seen them do that in the NET bible where it could have SO easily gone in the NOTES section. For instance, the NIV and NET both inserted OPINION when they put in basically "all by this all foods were made clean." That is an opinion -- NOT a quote from actual scripture. I personally do not see it as a "salvation issue," but I know from the Old Testament that bottom-feeders in the sea and pigs for instance were not CREATED as victuals (food for humans). I avoid eating food listed as an abomination and/or unclean in the Old Testament because I know this and it annoys me terribly for translators, thinking I am too stupid to think for myself, decide to tell me what was meant. If God didn't create it to be eaten by humans, I do not want to eat it (very much including bioengineered food ingredients are seeing today). It is something I do willingly and not because I am "afraid" to eat bacon. It used to be, along with shrimp, one of my MOST favorite things to eat. It pleases me to deny myself of things I would otherwise desire "just because I know God doesn't like it." I don't judge others for eating those things, and I could possibly end up in a situation where I would feel I should eat something like that anyway, but thus far I have felt no such need. Sorry. I type too much!

[@keithferrin]

@@MadlyinLovewithJesus-1953 No worries. Have you seen the app "Parallel Plus?" It's my favorite for comparing multiple translations. So good! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYbQdYpthtCtb9U

[@eijentwun5509]

NIV translators did not seem to Believe the Bible... or rather that Evolution and billions of years and Creationism can both be true (In Job they think Behemoth is a Hippo and Leviathan a Crocodile!) Having to PAY for God's FREE WORD is insane! They are preventing people from Hearing the Word with the Copyright restrictions. KJV and BSB parallel is needed.

[@keithferrin]

Copyright issues are challenging for sure. And it's a very in-depth conversation (that I've had with publishers for and against copyright). The biggest challenge is the creating/printing Bibles is REALLY expensive. If people want physical Bibles, then free is really difficult to pull off. I hear you though!

[@larrybedouin2921]

Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, [katapausis] any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. For we which have believed do enter into rest, [katapausis] as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: [katapausis] although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. For he spake in a certain place of *the seventh day* on this wise, And God did rest [katapauō] *the seventh day* from all his works. And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest. [katapausis] Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief: Again, *he limiteth a certain day* saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. For if Jesus had given them rest, [katapauō] then *would he not afterward have spoken of another day* There remaineth therefore a rest [sabbatismós] to the people of God. {Hebrews 4:1-9} G2663 katapausis - a resting place G2664 katapauō - to lead to a quiet abode G4520 sabbatismós - a keeping sabbath

[@keithferrin]

Ok

[@larrybedouin2921]

@@keithferrin This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. {2 Timothy 3:1-7}

[@keithferrin]

@@larrybedouin2921 Great passage. I agree wholeheartedly!

[@larrybedouin2921]

​@@keithferrin Happy reformation day

[@4321_dcba]

After the underhanded and inexcusable erasure of the old NIV, and it's replacement with a politically correct apology of a translation, I have spent years wondering what to use. I listened to the ESV on CD just too often while driving to work, and heard a passage that I was already very familiar with and said "what?! Are they talking about?!" It is poor for reading in my opinion, if you don't have a Greek lexicon and expert interpretations at hand to tell you what it means. I've sampled all of the translations over the last seven years or so. And the best replacement I have read is the BSB. It is the most like the NIV of anything I've found. My only problem with it is the reverential capitalizations. Rubs me the wrong way and seems juvenile to me. To me, be reverential in your life, not in capitalizing H's and Y's. And for the NIV they seemed to have a team of poets working for them, which the BSB didn't. This shows up in Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes.

[@keithferrin]

Glad you've landed on the BSB. Good stuff!

[@bradleyoverton8026]

I only use the KJV because the other versions contain too many errors. Ezekiel 4:1-4 is the perfect way to test the different versions. The words "tile" and the phrase "iron pan" are the keys. The city of Jerusalem was as fragile as a "tile" because it was very vulnerable to attack and could easily be conquered during that time. The phrase "iron pan" was an ancient Macedonian god of war. Ezekiel was warning the people in Jerusalem that they were going be attacked by a man who worshipped "iron pan" and also warned them that if they allowed this false god to be worshipped in Jerusalem that this would create a "wall of iron" between them and their god. This prophecy was fulfilled in 321 B.C. when a Macedonian General conquered Jerusalem. The people ignored Ezekiel's warning and allowed this false god to be worshipped in Jerusalem. As a result, they were punished in 70 A.D. when their city and their temple were destroyed. Good luck finding out which god was named "iron plate" in the CSB... LOL

[@sergloera]

That fascinating bit of fan fiction is not only not even chronologically accurate, none of the words chosen by the KJV translators is significantly different enough that one couldn’t arrive at the same conclusions if that was what the passage was trying to communicate, which again is debatable. The passage does not even implicitly allude to the worship of any false god in particular. The failure of Jerusalem, and Israel more generally, throughout Ezekiel and in this passage in particular, is their failure to obey God’s commandments generally but certainly their idolatry in particular but there is 0 contextual support for the idea that a specific false deity was in view in this passage. You should consider studying Hebrew, English in general and 17th Century Elizabethan English in particular is painfully insufficient for the kind of detailed and context rich study whoever related that story to you was grasping at straws for when they made it up.

[@sergloera]

By the way Jerusalem fell to the Macedonians under Alexander the Great in 332 B.C. No reliable primary sources record any significant conquests of Jerusalem after that point, especially considering there wouldn’t be any significant conquests carried out by any Macedonians on an already established Macedonian territory i.e. Proto-Hellenistic Palestine after it’s fall to Alexander in 332 B.C.

[@bradleyoverton8026]

@@sergloera To solve Ezekiel 4 you must have some historical knowledge before you fully understand that Ezekiel was simply using mathematics to warn the Jewish people that their temple would be destroyed in 70 A.D. because of their iniquities against God. Calculated 390 years from 321 A.D. and then adding the one missing zero year = 70 A.D. That is what Ezekiel wanted them to know. The false god "iron pan" began to be worshipped in Jerusalem in 321 A.D. when it was conquered by Ptolemy I Soter. Sorry that your bible translation caused you to misinterpret these scriptures which proves that the bible translation that you are using contains a serious error. We just do not know how many... The Holy Ghost interceded in the late 1500's to give us a more accurate translation of the bible... the KJV. To learn more about the bible prophecies and which bible version to use read the book: The Bible Prophecies Prove Which Church is True...

[@larrybedouin2921]

It's not a translation. All modern bibles are interpitations of the text.

[@keithferrin]

Hmmm...Isn't every translation of anything an interpretation of the original language into whatever language you're translating into? I'm a bit confused by your point. Can you explain?

[@sergloera]

By that standard the KJV is an “interpretation” of the text. Unless you’re reading Hebrew and Greek manuscripts, you’re really not qualified to make that strong of an assertion brother.

[@larrybedouin2921]

@@keithferrin Omitted verses from modern-day corrupted bibles. (As to think to have a works based gospel.) • Matthew 17:21 • Matthew 18:11 • Matthew 23:14 • Mark 7:16 • Mark 9:44 and 9:46 • Mark 11:26 • Mark 15:28 • Mark 16:9-20 • Luke 17:36 • John 5:3-4 • Acts 8:37 • Acts 15:44 • Acts 24:6-8 • Acts 28:29 • Romans 16:24 • 1 John 5:7-8 Partially, and other omitted verses • Matthew 20:16b • Mark 6:11b • Luke 4:8b • Luke 9:55-56 • Luke 23:17 (preserved in Matthew 27:15 and as Mark 15:6) • Acts 9:5-6 • Acts 13:42 • Acts 23:9b • Titus 2:13b

[@keithferrin]

@@larrybedouin2921 Not "omitted." Just put into the notes with reference to different manuscripts.

[@larrybedouin2921]

@keithferrin Westcott and Hort [Wolves in sheeps clothing] identified four text types, including the Alexandrian, Western, and Syrian. *They preferred the Alexandrian text* which they called the "Neutral Text", and considered the Syrian text to be inferior. Why? Jesuits to counter the reformation? Westcott and Hort refined the methods of *textual criticism* and their classification system is still used today. The Westcott and Hort edition is the foundation for the Nestle-Aland and United Bible Society editions. Almost all modern English New Testament translations are based on the *critical text* in the 1881 edition. You're wondering after the beast.

[@Imsaved777]

That version is no different than the other many versions on the market today.

[@keithferrin]

Being in the public domain is a big differentiator for sure!

[@sergloera]

We should hope not considering they’re all supposed to be same book 😂

[@Willi-g9o]

Is it printed in China? I recently went shopping for a new bible as a gift and I was appalled that they were ALL printed in China! A country that persecutes its own citizens that read the Bible! Unbelievable that we trust them to print God’s word!!

[@keithferrin]

No. It's printed in the U.S.A.

[@Willi-g9o]

@@keithferrin so very good to hear that! Thank you for the response!

[@keithferrin]

@@Willi-g9o 🙏🏼

[@oldschoolbiblebaptist]

It's all just confusion and speculation....Get you an every word perfect King James Bible. Preserved without error by Divine providence. The fulfillment of God's promise in Psalms 12:6,7 KJB. Anything else is just enticing words of man's wisdom. Science, falsely so called.

[@keithferrin]

If that's the belief you hold to (that all other translations are based on man's wisdom) then I respectfully encourage you to find another YT channel to watch. I don't think I will serve you well.

[@oldschoolbiblebaptist]

@@keithferrin I have a perfect Bible...Sorry you don't know that. It is my final authority, not any man's opinion of what some originals that turned to dust centuries ago might have said, basing eternity on your best guess. Good luck with your confusion and speculation. Psalms 12:6,7 KJB. My channel would absolutely serve you well!

[@captiosus_77]

@@oldschoolbiblebaptist You preach idolatry. You worship a flawed translation as "fact" over the word of God. Your channel serves no one well.

[@Believe_the_Bible]

Sad. A bible coach who doesn't use the word of God. Your "honest" review lacks truth. Don't play into the publishers love of money, "new bible" game.

[@keithferrin]

Oh my. How exactly am I not using the Word of God? And you obviously didn't watch the whole thing. The BSB doesn't have a "publisher" behind it making a ton of money. They give it away for free!

[@Believe_the_Bible]

​@@keithferrin You are correct I listen to the first part and you are also correct that if you are not using the KJB, you are not using the words of God. But my point still stands, God's word is only in the KJB in English. Anything else is not the words of God. Question: God said his word is pure, and true. God also said he would preserve his word forever. So my question is, where is God's pure, true, and preserved words that he promised in his word that would be available throughout time? Matt 24:35 KJV Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. Thanks for your reply.

[@keithferrin]

@ So…there was no Word of God before 1611?!?!

[@Believe_the_Bible]

​@@keithferrin Thanks for your reply. Of course God's perfect word existed before 1611, just not in English. For a correct translation to be made it has to come from a correct copy of the originals. I could ask you a similar question. We didn't have God's correct words until the 1900's. Where is God's perfect, true, pure, words He promised to preserve? Matt 24:35 KJV Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. Ps 12:6 KJV The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Ps 12:7 KJV Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever. Could you please tell me where you think God's perfect word is? Jesus is called the :Word of God" don't you think it would be perfect?

[@keithferrin]

@@Believe_the_Bible I think the KJV is a great translation. it's just not the ONLY translation that's good. Coming from the original Greek/Hebrew/Aramaic, there can be different word choices (based on reading level, for example) that are still "pure" and accurate. I know we're not going to agree. It's just that when you're starting point is to tell me that I "don't use the Word of God" it's such a judgmental, divisive, unhelpful statement. Completely unhelpful.