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Some have been asking, “What Bible do you use?” particularly in reference to the Bible I preach from on Sundays. In the last two years I have gradually switched to preaching from NRSV instead of the NIV. Let it be clear – which Bible you read is to a great extent a matter of preference. There are a host of choices when it comes to a solid English translation of the Bible and while the NRSV is not as popular in America I prefer it for several reasons.

• It’s the Bible I studied from in seminary. Academia prefers this translation because the word order follows the original language more closely – leaving more for the reader to interpret and less
  to the translation’s paraphrase. (Click here for a translation comparison.)
• I like the language that is used in the NRSV, it’s a bit more complex but I just like the English it uses. (Click here for a readability comparison.)
• The NRSV uses gender inclusive language for portions of scripture where it’s appropriate. As in many other languages the dominant gender of pronouns (they, we, you, etc.) is masculine. Therefore when translating these words into English most translations use “brothers,” “man,” etc. The NRSV however uses gender inclusive words like “brothers and sisters,” “humanity,” “people,” etc. when appropriate. If the translation needs a specific gender in a passage such as addressing husbands or elders the NRSV uses the masculine or feminine form as required.
• It’s different and gives a new perspective on scripture. I’ve read the NIV through and have read the NIV since childhood. Reading the NRSV has given me a new perspective on some passages, the unique words catch me off guard sometimes and help me to see something in the Bible I’ve overlooked.

How long will I use the NRSV? Probably forever, I’ve become so used to it in study that I’m not likely to change anytime soon. And, I want to preach from the Bible I study – so I’ll likely preach from it indefinitely. It’s my choice and you have yours. Some of you at BGCC may want to switch Bibles to follow along from on Sunday, some of you may want to keep what you already have. There’s merit in both, by having another translation you’re able to compare how that Bible translated the passage differently. Sometimes this a very revealing exercise! Whatever you decide, I just hope that you’ll read the Bible – the Bible that you call yours.