What Bible translation should I use?

TL;DR:

No Bible translation is perfect, but the best one is the one you’ll actually read, understand, and live out. Choose a version that balances accuracy with readability so God’s Word can take root in your life.

what does the bible say?

While there isn’t a single Bible translation we should use, we must study the Bible since it guides us in righteous living and helps us to know God (Psalm 1, 119:105). We should, therefore, pick a biblically accurate translation to avoid diluting the inspired words of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Reading the Bible shouldn’t be about just reading words on a page but actually meditating on it and studying it thoroughly so we know how to apply it to our life (Joshua 1:8). Old Testament Mosaic Law commanded the Israelites to make God’s word pervasive in their lives and to teach it to their children (Deuteronomy 11:18-20). That’s wise guidance for us today, too. We can do this by using many different reputable bible translations. Since the Bible is our spiritual weapon against our enemy, Satan, we must choose a translation that is both faithful in representing the inspired text and understandable for us personally (Ephesians 6:10-20; Hebrews 4:12).

from the old testament

While access to many Bible translations can be beneficial, the most important thing is to actually read and study the Bible on our own. Having so many translations can overwhelm us with choices—so much so that we read none of them. This is not God's desire (Deuteronomy 11:18-20; Psalm 1, 119:105).
God’s Word challenges us to meditate on it and live out its teachings in our lives (Joshua 1:8). We can do this by choosing a translation that is both accurate to the original text and easy to understand.

from the new testament

No Bible translation is perfect or inspired in the way the original texts of the Bible are (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Any claims to the contrary should be corrected. What matters is that a translation accurately represents the original text.
Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” We cannot let indecisiveness about a Bible translation hold us back from reading the Holy Scriptures. Studying and applying God’s Word is essential to our spiritual growth.

implications for today

Because the English language changes rapidly, older English writings, including the Bible, require modernization to be easily read and understood. Each translation has a particular emphasis as well as strengths and weaknesses. For example, while one translation may translate the text more literally, it may be more difficult to read in contemporary English. Another translation may be easier to read yet may miss some of the key words found in a more literal translation.

The English language enjoys many Bible translations because of the easy access to information and publication. The sheer number of English speakers and the ability to publish freely in most English-speaking nations has led to numerous projects to translate the Bible. The blessing of multiple translations is the ability to compare more than one version when studying the Bible. In such cases, it is a good idea to include at least one translation that is more literal (King James Version, New King James Version, New American Standard, English Standard Version) and perhaps one that is easier to read (New International Version or New Living Translation). In doing so, we will likely find one translation we prefer as our main Bible for regular reading, while using other translations to help when studying a passage more in depth. If we cannot decide on a translation, we can consult a trusted local pastor/church leader who has studied the Bible for some time and ask for insights on what translation would be most beneficial to us.

understand

Studying and meditating on the Bible helps us know God and live for Him.
Many English Bible translations exist, from word-for-word literal to easy readability; it’s wise to choose one with a balance of these features.
Believers should not let indecisiveness about translation hinder regular Bible study.

reflect

What amount of time do you spend reading the Bible each day? Meditating on it? How does your time in the Word impact your daily life?
Which translation do you most frequently read and why?
Under what circumstances do you compare texts from different translations?

engage

How can Christians best interact with believers who are devoted to one specific translation of the Bible—e.g., KJV only?
In group Bible studies, how can referencing more than one translation of a text help the group more deeply understand it?
Why is it important in our day and age to reference at least a couple Bible translations?