Answer:
As everyone knows, there are many Bible translations available today, all of which are the work of human hands and minds and none of which are completely accurate. But the imperfections in the translations are not an obstacle that keeps one from understanding the Bible. The variety of translations are actually a help, providing alternate readings where the one rendering may not seem to offer a thought in harmony with general Bible teaching. If the meaning is still in question, it is often helpful to consult a lexicon to determine the meaning of the original Greek or Hebrew word at the time the text was composed.
Also there are several excellent computer Bible programs available today. Two of the most popular are QuickVerse and Logos. Available with these programs are multiple translations of the Bible along with other tools and study aids. Some of these programs are actually “libraries.”
It would be difficult to recommend one translation over another, but as a general guide we might suggest that you select a study Bible (if you intend to use only one Bible) that is a “translation,” rather than a “paraphrase.”
Listed below are some of the better translations in modern English:
- New International Version
- New King James Version
- Revised Standard Version
- New Revised Standard Version
- New English Bible
- New American Standard Bible
- New Century Version
- New Living Translation
We feel that the Bible is the greatest “library” of books ever written. Although written millenniums ago, it remains our only source of knowledge about God and our most important source of guidance today.