Have you ever wondered how Bible translations are different from each other? One difference is in the philosophy of the translation team. Does the translation intend to be literal (word for word) or more free (thought for thought).

For example, the New American Standard Bible (NASB) intends to be very literal – “word for word” from the Greek or Hebrew into English. Their attempt is to be as true to the original language as possible – even if that means sacrificing fluidity or ease of reading. A word for word translation asks the question: What English word would be best translated for that Greek/Hebrew word? A word for word translation is excellent for Bible study. When I studied Greek in seminary and had to do many translations I was amazed at how accurate the NASB is in its attempt to be a word for word translation.

In the middle of the continuum are “thought for thought” translations. For example, the New International Version is an excellent thought for thought translation. The goal is to be as accurate as possible to the original manuscript in the thought or intention of the passage while making the language modern and flow well. A thought for thought translation asks the question: what phrase best translates the original intent of the author? The NIV is the most popular version of the Bible currently in print because it blends accuracy of translation and ease of reading.

On the right of the continuum are “paraphrase” translations. The Message and The Living Bible are two examples. The translators take the liberty to ask rephrase the meaning of Scripture in language that’s contemporary and connects. There’s another layer of interpretation between you and the original as the translator asks the question: what modern language would convey the same idea in this sentence? The strength of this type of translation is that God’s message becomes updated and fresh. Often a paraphrase translation will catch you off guard as the language is down to earth and straight forward.

The three translations that I use as I prepare to speak are the NASB, ESV, and NIV. I feel that those three give me a nice blend that leans toward the more literal translation slide of the continuum. Sometimes it’s really fun and refreshing to pick up the Message and read well known passages and hear it from a fresh perspective.

What translation do you read? Maybe it’d be fun to try a version that’s on a different part of the continuum. The main thing: reading, loving, and obeying the Scripture. Enjoy more!

Kendrick on the power of initiation from Kendrick Vinar on Vimeo.

Tiger should be given a lot of space and grace. He did an amazing job humbling himself and taking full responsibility for his actions. He wasn’t blame shifting or making excuses. He is deeply sorry.

My heart goes out to Tiger. I’ve been a huge fan. I just wish he got the concept of forgiveness. Tiger said, “I have a lot to atone for.” Although he took full responsibility for his mistakes he never brought up the issue of forgiveness. His goal is to rehabilitate himself so that through being a better person he can atone for what he did wrong and have us believe in him again.

Wow… so very different than the gospel. The gospel says that we do better because we have been forgiven. Our sins are atoned for because of the good actions of someone else – Jesus. Our faith is in God who forgives not in ourselves to do better. Forgiveness is granted because a person humbly asks. Trust is restored because a forgiven person’s actions prove trustworthy.

Bubba Watson tweeted this morning: “Morning All! Tiger speaks today, but we all need to ask forgiveness because we all SIN and make mistakes!! GOD FORGIVES! #loveeveryone ” I love it! God forgives, but forgiveness does need to be asked for. I teach my kids the difference between “I am sorry” and “Will you forgive me?” – big difference!

I am praying for Tiger and his family. So grateful for God’s grace and forgiveness. How I want everyone to experience it. Except for the grace of God, there go I. It’s level ground at the foot of the cross.

Have you ever called a friend and just wanted to share some good news? It’s so great when someone listens wells and is just excited with you. It’s a drag when the person hardly hears you or one ups you with what’s been even more amazing in his/her life.

Have you ever called a friend to dump your rotten day and vent? One person simply listens empathetically and you’re deeply helped by sharing your heart and processing. Another tries to fix the situation, and you hang up frustrated.

There’s a time for problem solving or even having a tough conversation. Just don’t start there.

The Bible gives us this practical insight on being a good friend: “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” (Rom 12:15)

Take the great advice and practice it on others. Slow down. Tune in. You’ll be a true friend by simply rejoicing with those who rejoice, and weeping with those who weep.

Happy Valentine’s Day.