Under each section heading our recommendations are in order of preference.

Most Literal
(form-based translation, sometimes called 'literal, or formal equivalence')
1. English Standard Version ESV (see article1, article2, endorsements)
2. New American Standard Version (NASB, Updated Edition)
3. Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)*

Most Readable
(meaning-based translation, sometimes referred to as 'dynamic equivalence')
1. New International Version (NIV)
2. New Living Translation (NLT Second Edition)

Paraphrase
(not technically a translation but a rephrasing of the text, use with caution!)
1. The Message
2. The Living Bible

Study Bibles
Not Recommended for reading and general study! see article


Bibliography For Further Study:

Bruce, F.F., The English Bible. New York: Oxford University Press, 1970.

Fee, Gordon D., How to Choose a Translation for All Its Worth: A Guide to Understanding and Using Bible Versions, Zondervan, 2007
   
Ryken, Leland, Choosing a Bible: Understanding Bible Translation Differences, Crossway Books, 2005

Recent English Bible Versions Compared, article by Wayne Leman

Hawthorne, G.F., How To Choose A Bible. Christianity Today, Vol. 20, December 5, 1975, pp.7-10.

Translation Comparison (based on Romans 3:23-26)


Questions? Email the WebMaster

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* The Holman CSB tries to bridge the gap between form-based and meaning-based translation, ie. literal where possible--expanded where necessary for meaning.