Trial Runs with Bible Translations

Over the years, I have used several different Bibles.  Like many Christians, my first Bible was a King James Version.  I used it and a New International Version for years.  When I began pastoring, I preached out of the King James.  I then moved to the New King James (didn’t really click for me) and then to the NIV.  I usually used the New American Standard to teach Bible studies.  Over time, I completely switched to the NASB, and I have used it for several years.  About six or seven months ago, I was asked to lead a Bible study in another venue.  I thought it would be a good time to check out a few different translations as teaching Bibles.  I purchased a New Living Translation and I really liked the way it read, but I wasn’t sure I was comfortable teaching extensively from it.  I have used it several times for lengthy readings. 

While I was researching the NLT, I read many positive reviews of the English Standard Version.  So, a few months ago, I switched from my NASB, and began preaching and teaching out of the ESV on a trial basis.  At times, I really like it.  At other times, it makes me scratch my head.  I am getting ready to begin a trial run teaching from the Holman Christian Standard Bible.  Like the ESV, I really like parts of the HCSB.  I think the HCSB does a great job of being readable while maintaining some important concepts (like translating “doulos” as “slave” and “hilasmos” as ”propitiation” - you can read my opinion on these here and here).  Time will tell whether or not I stick with it, the ESV, or completely return to the NASB.