Finally, the third reason for changing from the King James Version of the Bible, is due to the versatility of many translations. It may surprise the reader of these blogs for me say that I am not trying to get rid of the KJV. To the contrary, I am seeking the best way to preach, teach, and mostly communicate the bible.
One reason there are so many bibles is not because they all want to dilute, dissolve, or destroy the Word of God. The reason for the many is that there are many people and uses for each translation.
The best way to explain this is by describing the different methods of translating. One is to translate from one language to another in a word for word fashion. This is called formal equivalence. This way would get into technical word usage. If in English we say you are pulling my leg, then that is exactly how that is translated in another language.
Another method of translation is a thought for thought fashion. This is called dynamic equivalence. This way is more interested in sentence meaning. Again if we say in English you are pulling my leg, then in the other language the thought or meaning would be translated in different words.
Because of this bibles are being translated in both methods making for different version but still the same Word of God. For example the most common formal equivalence bible version happens to be the New American Standard Bible or NASB. This bible because of it's word accuracy has become the favorite of theologians, bible scholars, and pastors. They like the ability to see as close to the original in word form as possible. This however is not the best for beginner reading or study.
The best example right now of a dynamic equivalence version is the New Living Translation or NLT. This version is accurate for meditation, and enjoyable reading. This version has become one the fastest growing in popularity because of its ease of reading without sacrificing accuracy.
To some this all up, it is our intention to not just replace the KJV with another more modern version. Instead we will seek a plurality of version. Meaning we will have a primary version that is considered church wide with the freedom to preach, teach, or reference other versions as well.
We believe this is the best course for two reason: 1) to avoid any future fighting over preferential versions; 2) to leave the door open to any future version and updates that will enhance the ministry of Portage Avenue Baptist Church.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Sunday, December 16, 2007
KJV - Why Change? Part 2
The second reason for changing to a modern version of the bible really is not a reason to change, but removes a barrier from changing. For years there have been two questionable principles that have stalled the change to the modern versions:
1. God has promised a perfect"preserve"(a stealth word for inspire) version of the bible. No where in the bible does it promise perfect preservation of the Word. God has promised His Word to be eternal to all generations and beyond. But to extend this special class to the KJV is over extreme.
The problem here is to say that God has given something special and different to the KJV that has not been given to any other English language (some even say to any language) translation. To say this is to say that the 1611 translators were in a sense inspired. It is almost to say that God moved not just holy men but the KJV translators like He did Moses, Daniel, Peter and Paul.
This needless to say is a perversion of a great translation that has had a great history to an unrealistic status. No one should be saying that the days of reading, studying and even preaching from the KJV is over. But there should never be a day where we believe the KJV is the only Word of God, or even superior.
2. That all other translations are corrupt and watered down because they do not exclusively use the Textus Receptus as the manuscript for translation.
When it comes to archeology, the greatest discoveries have come in the last 50 years. A major part of these discoveries have been the finding of more copies of the the original writings. We have a larger selection today of manuscripts than they had to work with in 1611. Hence there are better chances to correct the mistakes made in the copy of the copy of the copy of the originals. The scribes who did the copying never had a devine promise of error free writing. But the way to overcome these errors was to compare and combine as many copies a possible to correct the errors.
By the way one more note. There is also a special claim of Greek and Hebrew scholarship. The claim was that there was in 1611 a group of translators that were better than at any time in history. Aside from the fact that none of those scholars would ever claim that, how could something like that be proved? All credit is due to those men who made it a lifetime to study their subject, but let's not insult the current group of scholars who work just as hard and just as devoted as those in 1611 to produce the most God honoring translation of His Word.
1. God has promised a perfect"preserve"(a stealth word for inspire) version of the bible. No where in the bible does it promise perfect preservation of the Word. God has promised His Word to be eternal to all generations and beyond. But to extend this special class to the KJV is over extreme.
The problem here is to say that God has given something special and different to the KJV that has not been given to any other English language (some even say to any language) translation. To say this is to say that the 1611 translators were in a sense inspired. It is almost to say that God moved not just holy men but the KJV translators like He did Moses, Daniel, Peter and Paul.
This needless to say is a perversion of a great translation that has had a great history to an unrealistic status. No one should be saying that the days of reading, studying and even preaching from the KJV is over. But there should never be a day where we believe the KJV is the only Word of God, or even superior.
2. That all other translations are corrupt and watered down because they do not exclusively use the Textus Receptus as the manuscript for translation.
When it comes to archeology, the greatest discoveries have come in the last 50 years. A major part of these discoveries have been the finding of more copies of the the original writings. We have a larger selection today of manuscripts than they had to work with in 1611. Hence there are better chances to correct the mistakes made in the copy of the copy of the copy of the originals. The scribes who did the copying never had a devine promise of error free writing. But the way to overcome these errors was to compare and combine as many copies a possible to correct the errors.
By the way one more note. There is also a special claim of Greek and Hebrew scholarship. The claim was that there was in 1611 a group of translators that were better than at any time in history. Aside from the fact that none of those scholars would ever claim that, how could something like that be proved? All credit is due to those men who made it a lifetime to study their subject, but let's not insult the current group of scholars who work just as hard and just as devoted as those in 1611 to produce the most God honoring translation of His Word.
KJV - Why Change? Part 1
The King James Version Bible is the best and only reliable translation of God's Word. Not only for the English language, but is the standard for any language. That was my belief when it came to bibliology. I was taught by my bible college and seminary that not only was the KJV superior, but any and all others were evil corrupt, watered down versions.
Now, I must admit I do not believe I was taught correctly. Though my professors had the best of intentions, those who hold to the KJV are going to find it harder and lonelier. Now some of them may consider that a badge of honor, but may be doing that in vain.
So with that in mind I would like to share the first of three reasons why I believe the Portage Avenue Baptist Church is ready, and should make the change from the King James Version to a more modern version.
First, because the language, (word and phrase meanings) is becoming less and less understood by common man. Even when I got saved in 1979, I had to make the adjustment of the verbiage. Some might say to me that since I did it others should too. That would be selfish and Pharisaical of me. Who is to say that my journey is a must as an example to be followed? I believe I would be putting an undue burden upon a new or weaker Christian in the name of making them in my image.
What really was the biggest influence for me was what the original KJV translators stated as their reasons for coming up the new version. Under criticism like: why do we need another version anyway, and accusations of fraud, and corruption; they forged ahead with the project. They wanted to come up with a translation that would be for the common man to be able to read easily. They made no claims of inspiration, or superiority. Actually they believed that what they were doing should be done on a regular basis as needed.
As Babel proved, when it comes to delivering a message, language is not just in important it is crucial. What good is it to fight and bicker for a great translation of the Word of God when it is shackled by a way of speech that is not spoken any longer. If the word "conversation" meant something different than verbal communication, how is the 21st century reader suppose to understand the true meaning of that verse? Our heritage has always believed that the average Christian should not have to be defendant on the clergy to interrupt the bible. The Word of God should always be available in the tongue of the common man. Because of that the KJV is no longer the best at meeting that standard any more than a Russian version of the Word of God could serve the modern English language.
Now, I must admit I do not believe I was taught correctly. Though my professors had the best of intentions, those who hold to the KJV are going to find it harder and lonelier. Now some of them may consider that a badge of honor, but may be doing that in vain.
So with that in mind I would like to share the first of three reasons why I believe the Portage Avenue Baptist Church is ready, and should make the change from the King James Version to a more modern version.
First, because the language, (word and phrase meanings) is becoming less and less understood by common man. Even when I got saved in 1979, I had to make the adjustment of the verbiage. Some might say to me that since I did it others should too. That would be selfish and Pharisaical of me. Who is to say that my journey is a must as an example to be followed? I believe I would be putting an undue burden upon a new or weaker Christian in the name of making them in my image.
What really was the biggest influence for me was what the original KJV translators stated as their reasons for coming up the new version. Under criticism like: why do we need another version anyway, and accusations of fraud, and corruption; they forged ahead with the project. They wanted to come up with a translation that would be for the common man to be able to read easily. They made no claims of inspiration, or superiority. Actually they believed that what they were doing should be done on a regular basis as needed.
As Babel proved, when it comes to delivering a message, language is not just in important it is crucial. What good is it to fight and bicker for a great translation of the Word of God when it is shackled by a way of speech that is not spoken any longer. If the word "conversation" meant something different than verbal communication, how is the 21st century reader suppose to understand the true meaning of that verse? Our heritage has always believed that the average Christian should not have to be defendant on the clergy to interrupt the bible. The Word of God should always be available in the tongue of the common man. Because of that the KJV is no longer the best at meeting that standard any more than a Russian version of the Word of God could serve the modern English language.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Worship vs. Pet Peeves
Colossians 3:8-10 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
A cellphone goes off in the auditorium, a baby cries in the back. Someone's clothing "flashes" like a New York neon sign. Why can't these people have things under control like me. Don't they realize how they distract me from worshiping God?
The first truth about this is no one can disturb us from worshiping God. The Apostle Paul say to the Romans that nothing not even supernatural nonhuman influences can separate us from the love of God. God has allowed us miraculous access to His very Throne for personal time and no one has the power to influence that unless we allow it.
The second truth is consistent faithful worship is hard, very hard. If it were easy everybody would be doing it. Jesus told us that we are to worship God in spirit and truth in a continuous and growing action. But it just seems like the environment we are in is bent on messing with it. Too hot, too cold, too sleepy, too restless, too noisy, too quiet, it never seems to end. Which leads us to...
the third truth is God has provided the put off put on principle to solve this endeavor. Along with the privilege of glorifying God, He gives us prescription the most effective worship. When get distracted by our own sinful natures but through Jesus we can put off anger, jealous etc.. just as if it were a sportscoat to put on a royal robe of pure white.
The next time a pet peeve happens at church what will be your response? Anger, wrath, or love, and compassion.
A cellphone goes off in the auditorium, a baby cries in the back. Someone's clothing "flashes" like a New York neon sign. Why can't these people have things under control like me. Don't they realize how they distract me from worshiping God?
The first truth about this is no one can disturb us from worshiping God. The Apostle Paul say to the Romans that nothing not even supernatural nonhuman influences can separate us from the love of God. God has allowed us miraculous access to His very Throne for personal time and no one has the power to influence that unless we allow it.
The second truth is consistent faithful worship is hard, very hard. If it were easy everybody would be doing it. Jesus told us that we are to worship God in spirit and truth in a continuous and growing action. But it just seems like the environment we are in is bent on messing with it. Too hot, too cold, too sleepy, too restless, too noisy, too quiet, it never seems to end. Which leads us to...
the third truth is God has provided the put off put on principle to solve this endeavor. Along with the privilege of glorifying God, He gives us prescription the most effective worship. When get distracted by our own sinful natures but through Jesus we can put off anger, jealous etc.. just as if it were a sportscoat to put on a royal robe of pure white.
The next time a pet peeve happens at church what will be your response? Anger, wrath, or love, and compassion.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Worship vs. Practice
1Corinthians 14:19-20 Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.
We like to believe are believe and practice the best way possible to worship God. Particularly in our public church services. The best illustration of this is what we believe to be unchangeable in our methods. The songs have to be performed with piano accompaniment, or we must be dress in our "Sunday Best"(which can only mean a suit and tie for men, and a dress or skirt for women).
I was listening to an older preacher on Thanksgiving. I admired his bible knowledge and his lifetime service to the work of God in foreign missions. However, I could not help but notice is desire to reach back to a more innocent time in his career. Back then spirituality was measured by large and long revival campaigns and crusades. He pine for the good old days where people came to meetings, souls getting saved was the be all end all. He thought that revival meant society returning to those methods as being the only way to true worship.
As much as I would love to see that also, I have to admit that that method does not communicate to our modern society. We can bemoan, cry and complain about how times were better then (which in many ways is true), it does us no good to deny the reality. These are different times, and we are called by God to serve our generation in the most biblical, and effective ways. The following are three impediments to this goal:
1. To give into our desire to stay the same and make people conform to "our" man made standards of conduct. Believe it or not Godly worship can come from more casual clothes and a non-piano or organ. Not everything labeled worldly really is worldly, we need to be more discerning and flexible to change.
2. To give up and just cut ourselves off directly or indirectly from society. There are places and practices that we are to change from in order to grow in Christ, but to just out of an act of frustration or pride cut ourselves off from sinners in unbiblical.
3. To give credence to the belief that because we change from older methods that are no longer effective believe that the old methods were somehow wrong. The King James Version Bible is the Word of God and has a great history and heritage. But the method of language in this version does not communicate well to this society. That does not mean the KJV was a bad version from the beginning, it just means that the unchangeable message of the Word of God needs to be retooled to communicate better to this society. Music and other elements of worship are the same the message of these elements do not change but the methods do by the priority of what best communicates effectively.
We like to believe are believe and practice the best way possible to worship God. Particularly in our public church services. The best illustration of this is what we believe to be unchangeable in our methods. The songs have to be performed with piano accompaniment, or we must be dress in our "Sunday Best"(which can only mean a suit and tie for men, and a dress or skirt for women).
I was listening to an older preacher on Thanksgiving. I admired his bible knowledge and his lifetime service to the work of God in foreign missions. However, I could not help but notice is desire to reach back to a more innocent time in his career. Back then spirituality was measured by large and long revival campaigns and crusades. He pine for the good old days where people came to meetings, souls getting saved was the be all end all. He thought that revival meant society returning to those methods as being the only way to true worship.
As much as I would love to see that also, I have to admit that that method does not communicate to our modern society. We can bemoan, cry and complain about how times were better then (which in many ways is true), it does us no good to deny the reality. These are different times, and we are called by God to serve our generation in the most biblical, and effective ways. The following are three impediments to this goal:
1. To give into our desire to stay the same and make people conform to "our" man made standards of conduct. Believe it or not Godly worship can come from more casual clothes and a non-piano or organ. Not everything labeled worldly really is worldly, we need to be more discerning and flexible to change.
2. To give up and just cut ourselves off directly or indirectly from society. There are places and practices that we are to change from in order to grow in Christ, but to just out of an act of frustration or pride cut ourselves off from sinners in unbiblical.
3. To give credence to the belief that because we change from older methods that are no longer effective believe that the old methods were somehow wrong. The King James Version Bible is the Word of God and has a great history and heritage. But the method of language in this version does not communicate well to this society. That does not mean the KJV was a bad version from the beginning, it just means that the unchangeable message of the Word of God needs to be retooled to communicate better to this society. Music and other elements of worship are the same the message of these elements do not change but the methods do by the priority of what best communicates effectively.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Worship vs. Preference
Romans 14:2-3 One person believes he may eat anything, but one who is weak eats only vegetables. One who eats must not look down on one who does not eat; and one who does not eat must not criticize one who does, because God has accepted him.
Why is it that we get distracted from the very thing we say love the most? We all probably have the same goal of wanting to please God. We even have most of the same elements of prayer, bible, singing, and preaching. And yet there are still divisions, distrust, and disappointment in our efforts to unite in real worship towards God.
The Apostle Paul exhorts us to lighten up a little when it comes to the differences in bible versions, song style, and pray content. When the temptation to criticize, look down on, or just plain stew over someone's different preference, remember God is more likely to side with the variety than the dissent.
Why is it that we get distracted from the very thing we say love the most? We all probably have the same goal of wanting to please God. We even have most of the same elements of prayer, bible, singing, and preaching. And yet there are still divisions, distrust, and disappointment in our efforts to unite in real worship towards God.
The Apostle Paul exhorts us to lighten up a little when it comes to the differences in bible versions, song style, and pray content. When the temptation to criticize, look down on, or just plain stew over someone's different preference, remember God is more likely to side with the variety than the dissent.
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Thursday, October 18, 2007
Worship Through Distraction
1 Corinthians 1:12 Some of you are saying, “I am a follower of Paul.” Others are saying, “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Peter,” or “I follow only Christ.”
"Pastor, I want to speak to you about the music in the worship service..." That's a statement said to pastors all over. Some want contemporary (rocky music), some want traditional (organ, piano music). Some want the KJV only some want the NIV. As many varieties of style as people in the congregation.However, one thing no matter what age, what style, what taste, that is in exclusively in common is exclusion. It seems that if a church service can not be in the style that I like, then I am too distracted by that "worldly" or "old-fashion" style to worship God. One side it so entrenched in keep the past at the expense being relevant to their mission field. The other side is so focused on changing the status quo they don't care who they offend.
Missing from the situation is love and concern for the other. Also, what is missing is any consideration for the possibility that worship does not have to always be "my way". What about you the reader, do you have to have it your way? What happens to your worship when something enters the service that you disagree? Over the next couple of blogs I would like to challenge your thinking and your ability to worship without being so easily swede from focusing on God. If someone can get you is the wrong spirit, how well are you worshiping?
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Friday, October 05, 2007
Working with the Wolves
Proverbs 11:12 Thieves are jealous of each other’s loot,
but the godly are well rooted and bear their own fruit. (NLT)
In sales especially, watching how co-workers interact can be quite sad. They (including me sometimes sadly) can be so fixed on what they are getting and doing. This then leads to envy, and bitterness to the point of destructive thinking. It is no wonder that we have conflicts, warring, and distrust in the workplace.
When we decide to work God's way, we become confident in what God is doing in our lives, and not concerned with the affairs of others. If we are involved in others in anyway it is to help them perform better in their duties
but the godly are well rooted and bear their own fruit. (NLT)
In sales especially, watching how co-workers interact can be quite sad. They (including me sometimes sadly) can be so fixed on what they are getting and doing. This then leads to envy, and bitterness to the point of destructive thinking. It is no wonder that we have conflicts, warring, and distrust in the workplace.
When we decide to work God's way, we become confident in what God is doing in our lives, and not concerned with the affairs of others. If we are involved in others in anyway it is to help them perform better in their duties
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Friday, January 05, 2007
Spiritual or Worldly
...present your body a living sacrifice. Romans 12:1
I ask a group of teens the other day, "if a teenage dedicates themself to abstinance until marriage, have they made a good decision?" They answered yes. I then ask "did that teen make a godly decision?" Most still believed yes.
I then went on to present the idea that a godly sounding decision may be just as worldly a one as if they smoked, or drank. This confused some. I then ask why would a teen make such a decision. Some said pregnancy, std, life goals... etc. This I explained was exactly the worldliness that I was talking about.
Worldliness is not the neglect of following a man made list of rules. Nor is it by looking, dressing and talking good make you spiritual. If the reason you do or don't do comes from a heart of desiring to please and obey God then it is worldly. What God says in His word is the sole determiner as to what is right and wrong, and not giving Him credit and glory is wrong.
I ask a group of teens the other day, "if a teenage dedicates themself to abstinance until marriage, have they made a good decision?" They answered yes. I then ask "did that teen make a godly decision?" Most still believed yes.
I then went on to present the idea that a godly sounding decision may be just as worldly a one as if they smoked, or drank. This confused some. I then ask why would a teen make such a decision. Some said pregnancy, std, life goals... etc. This I explained was exactly the worldliness that I was talking about.
Worldliness is not the neglect of following a man made list of rules. Nor is it by looking, dressing and talking good make you spiritual. If the reason you do or don't do comes from a heart of desiring to please and obey God then it is worldly. What God says in His word is the sole determiner as to what is right and wrong, and not giving Him credit and glory is wrong.
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