The 7 Bible Versions to Avoid for You and Your Church Bible Study

The Bible stands as a timeless source of wisdom, rich in guidance for both faith and daily life. However, the translation you select can profoundly impact your comprehension and interpretation of Scripture. Each Bible version strives to faithfully communicate God’s Word. However, certain translations may be less appropriate for specific contexts. This is especially true in a church or Bible study setting.

As emphasized in 2 Timothy 2:15, we are called to “rightly divide the word of truth.” This means choosing the right tools that facilitate accurate understanding. It also involves effective teaching.

In this article, we will explore seven Bible versions. They may not be the best fit for your church. These versions might not support your Bible study endeavors. Each entry will highlight the strengths and limitations of these versions. This information will help you make an informed decision about the texts you incorporate into your spiritual journey.

1. Amplified Bible (AMP)

The Amplified Bible (AMP) is designed to deepen the reader’s understanding of key biblical words. It clarifies phrases by providing expanded meanings and additional insights. This feature can significantly enhance personal reflection, allowing for a richer exploration of Scripture’s depth. However, these extra words can disrupt the natural flow of reading. They may create confusion, particularly in personal study or group discussions.

For instance, in John 3:16, the AMP presents the verse as follows: “For God so [greatly] loved the world. He dearly prized the world.” He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son. Whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life.” This extensive elaboration offers a fuller perspective. However, the abundance of modifiers can feel overwhelming. This can detract from the simplicity of the original text in many study settings.

Why It’s Less Suitable:

The AMP tends to be overly wordy. It is interpretative, making it challenging to follow. This is especially true for those reading the text for the first time. It is also true for those reading it a second time or within a corporate context. Sometimes, it amplifies certain passages unnecessarily, which can lead to misunderstandings and make the core message more difficult to digest.

Best Use:

The Amplified Bible is most effective for individuals in the later stages of their personal study. This includes the third or fourth reading. At this stage, they seek a deeper exploration of words used in the Scripture. Before exploring the AMP, you should use a top Bible version. Choose one from the seven best versions available. This approach particularly benefits those trying to comprehend the Bible based on its original translations. The AMP may not be optimal for beginners.

2. The Message (MSG)

The Message is commonly known as the MSG. It is a paraphrased version of the Bible. The aim is to convey Scripture using contemporary, conversational language. This approach makes it engaging and accessible for many readers, allowing them to easily grasp the essence of the text. However, this accessibility often compromises theological depth. It also reduces textual accuracy. This can lead to a diluted understanding of the original messages conveyed in Scripture.

For instance, Psalm 23:1 in The Message reads, “God, my shepherd! I don’t need a thing.” This phrasing is simple and relatable. However, it omits the richness and nuanced understanding found in more traditional translations. One example is the King James Version (KJV), which states, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” The latter provides a deeper insight into the relationship between the shepherd and the sheep. It emphasizes care and provision in a more profound way.

Why It’s Less Suitable: The Message is not a direct translation of the original texts. This makes it less appropriate for those seeking in-depth biblical study. It is also less suitable for theological teaching. Its paraphrased nature can lead to different interpretations, which may not align with scholarly analysis. Also, depending on the level of Bible knowledge, the message of continuous paraphrasing may be annoying for serious-minded Christians.

Best Use: The Message shines in devotional reading. Individuals seek personal inspiration and encouragement from the Scriptures in this context.

3. American Standard Version (ASV)

The American Standard Version was first published in 1901. It is celebrated for its dedication to literal translation. This ensures a high level of accuracy in conveying the original texts. Despite its strengths, the ASV employs language that has become increasingly antiquated. This poses challenges for today’s readers. They may struggle to grasp its meanings.

Over the years, the ASV has largely been supplanted by more contemporary translations. These include the New American Standard Bible (NASB) and the English Standard Version (ESV). Both strive to improve readability while integrating updated scholarship.

John 3:16 is a well-known example from the ASV. It states, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son. Whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life.” While rich in its theological significance, this phrasing may feel archaic for modern audiences. It is less accessible compared to newer translations that use everyday language.

Why It’s Less Suitable: The ASV’s outdated language renders it less practical for contemporary study. This can hinder understanding. It may also affect engagement with the text.

Best Use: The ASV serves as a valuable resource for historical reference. It allows for detailed word-for-word analysis. Scholars and readers alike can appreciate its fidelity to the original Scripture.

4. New World Translation (NWT)

The New World Translation, produced by the Jehovah’s Witnesses, has garnered considerable criticism. Critics argue it tends to modify crucial biblical texts. These modifications are seen as aligning better with its own doctrinal beliefs. This habit of altering texts has caused significant theological inaccuracies. Therefore, the translation is less appropriate for traditional Christian study and use.

An example of this is found in John 1:1. The NWT states: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god.” This particular rendering diverges from orthodox Christian interpretations, which typically affirm the full divinity of the Word, identifying it unequivocally with God.

Why It’s Less Suitable: The translation is seen as theologically biased. It is often inconsistent with the widely accepted principles of mainstream Christian doctrine.

Best Use: Due to these concerns, the NWT is best avoided for serious study and teaching within a Christian context.

5. Living Bible (TLB)  

The Living Bible is a paraphrase designed specifically to make Scripture more approachable for casual readers. Its engaging style aims to resonate with everyday life, but this simplification often comes at the expense of theological richness. For instance, Romans 12:2 in the TLB states, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but be a new and different person with a fresh newness in all you do and think.” While this interpretation is easy to grasp, it does not have the layered meanings. It also lacks the depth found in traditional translations like the New American Standard Bible (NASB).  

Why It’s Less Suitable: Its oversimplified approach can undermine serious study and theological exploration.  

Best Use: Ideal for personal devotions or as an introductory tool for those new to Scripture.

6. Contemporary English Version (CEV)

The Contemporary English Version focuses on readability and ease of understanding. This makes it especially accessible to children and new believers. This translation, while providing a clear message, tends to overlook the subtlety and depth that characterizes more traditional translations. For example, Matthew 5:9 in the CEV reads, “God blesses those people who make peace. They will be called his children!” Although straightforward, this rendition misses the profound nuances that can be found in translations like the Christian Standard Bible (CSB).  

Why It’s Less Suitable: Its overly basic language can limit its effectiveness for theological analysis or deeper study.  

Best Use: Particularly suited for youth groups or individuals just beginning their journey into understanding the Bible.

7. Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

The Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB) has been officially succeeded by the Christian Standard Bible (CSB). The CSB enhances the readability of the text. It resolves issues with inconsistent phrasing found in the earlier version. The HCSB is still recognized for its accuracy in translation. However, it may not be as accessible or engaging for contemporary readers. It doesn’t compare to the more polished CSB. For example, Matthew 28:19 in the HCSB states: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” While this verse maintains its theological precision, the CSB offers a refined phrasing that improves overall clarity and flow.

Why It’s Less Suitable: The HCSB has been superseded by the improved CSB, which offers a more reader-friendly approach.

Best Use: The HCSB may be referenced only when the CSB is unavailable. It is also used for specific study purposes related to its unique translation.

Conclusion and Disclaimer

In reviewing various Bible translations, it’s important to recognize both their strengths and limitations. Translations like the Amplified Bible (AMP) and The Message (MSG) can add a rich, personal dimension to individual devotions. However, they may not be the best choices for teaching or for use in group study settings. This is due to their interpretative nature and less precise wording. Additionally, some translations, like the New World Translation (NWT), raise concerns. They introduce theological inaccuracies. These inaccuracies contradict mainstream Christian beliefs.

Reflect on which Bible translations you prefer. Consider how they contribute to your personal study of Scripture. Please share your insights and experiences in the comments below! If you found this guide to be valuable, don’t hesitate to share it with friends or fellow believers. Let’s collaborate to enhance our understanding of God’s Word. We should use resources that help us discern the truth correctly. Stay motivated in your spiritual journey and remain blessed!