Own and Use a Bible

The main way God lets you know about who He is and what He wants is through His word.

Owning a Bible that you can use to know His word is the best way to grow your faith and knowledge. There are many different translations or versions of the Bible. Some are easier to read than others, and some are more accurate to the original texts.

For example, some translations of the Bible use a word-for-word way of changing the original language into the English language. This gives a more accurate meaning of what was but in a somewhat stilted or awkward way. King James Version (KJV), New King James Version (NKJV), New American Standard Bible (NASB...Dr. Marr preaches from this version), English Standard Version (ESV), Revised Standard Version (RSV), and New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) are all examples of this.

Other translations use a thought for thought method. This typically gives an easier reading of the text but is not always as accurate. New Living Translation (NLT), Contemporary English Version (CEV), or The Message Version all are written in this style. The New International Version (NIV) uses both of these styles.

Please be aware that though the Bibles listed above are good Bibles, there are some other versions which have serious errors in them. If you have any questions about a version not listed above, you can speak to any of Southcliff's pastors, and they will gladly help you.

The Bible translation you choose to use is up to your personal style. The most important part is that you read it to know more about who God is and how He wants to have a relationship with you.

Scripture:

2 Timothy 3:16-18
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

Details:

Stop by the HOME POINT located in the concourse across from the Information Desk and preview the Bibles that are on display.

Talk with friends who own Bibles and ask why they chose the version they chose. Visit a store that sells Bibles and read John 3:16 to see which version you like the most.

If a Bible does not fit into your budget, you can talk to any of the Southcliff pastors, and a Bible will be made available to you at no cost.

YouVersion App

More Pathway activities on this topic:

#5 Reread scriptures from a worship service
# 23 Read God’s Word in an organized way
#41 Memorize and understand 2 Timothy 3:17-18
#43 Read the Bible 5-7 times weekly
#67 Choose and memorize scriptures regularly