[Knute]

The ESV is a very good word for word translation, versus a dynamic equivalent or a paraphrase. We are using it in our church. BUT, the "one Bible for all" smacks of the legalism of the King James only group. Most people I associate with are utilizing several translations for their personal study. I regularly refer to 7. (English Standard Version, King James Version, New King James Version, New International Version, New Living Translation, Amplified Bible and The Message)
I disagree totally with Professor Jacobs determination to make it the "exclusive" English one size fits all Bible

[TheGeezer]

I use different versions of the bible as well, but I find that "squishy" translations may be transliterations that express the agenda of the translator rather than the truth of the bible.

The words of the bible were written in hugely diverse times and cultural settings. Spinning verses to convey a perceived relevance to unique modern contexts can easily mislead, rather than clarify, biblical teachings. The understanding of scripture must not be divorced from its original context.

Regards.

[Gorjus]

I regularly refer to 7.

You left one study option out - but it's not a translation. There are resources where even the ignorant (like me) can find word by word explanations of the original text. There are words or phrases where the very best possible translation into English still doesn't capture the original, because the vocabulary and structure of English doesn't match the Greek (or Hebrew). An example is the three distinct words in Greek (agape, philios, eros) for which English only has one (love). Unless you look at the original, you may miss part of the message.

But for real study, your basic point is what I think is correct: Look at more than one translation (and in my case, the original) and try to understand, not just memorize the words.

[bootless]

Wjat a terrible idea. Sounds like he wants us all to read the same Q'uran ... er ...wait - maybe he's closet Taliban?!

I just got myself a copy of The Message for Christmas, and I love it.

[sweet_diane]

"We are using it in our church. BUT, the "one Bible for all" smacks of the legalism of the King James only group."

Our Pastor uses ESV for the most part. I too use several translations, tho currently only have NIV and KJV readily at hand. My KJV ONLY friends attend legalist churches and won't even touch my NIV Bible. One dear friend of mine secretly reads the NKJV at home for study, but wouldn't dare take it to church with her.

real shame. But I must admit my own avoidance of the Living Bible translations.. call me old fashioned! lol