Bible translations in the west come in three basic styles: literal, dynamic equivalent, and paraphrase.
Now some folks say there’s just two styles: literal or word-for word, and dynamic equivalent or thought for thought. But since there’s such a pronounced difference in the strictest sense of dynamic equivalents like NIV and The Message, we feel obliged to add the third style for clarity.
The first style is literal like the New American Standard, King James, and New King James versions. These attempt to match each Hebrew and Greek word and phrase with the appropriate word in the culture that receives the translation. Consequently, they’re the longest translations in terms of words.
For example in the New Testament, the phrase “to walk in a manner worthy” (Eph. 4.1, Col 1.10, 1 Thes. 2.12) is translated literally since ancient disciples learned from their teachers through peripatetic learning: walking with the teacher.
The second is the dynamic equivalent like the New International Version (NIV) and the New Living Translation (NLT). These attempt to take the idea, doctrine, or concept and use modern terminology that more closely fits the culture.
Using our example above “to walk in a manner worthy,” the NIV translates it as “live a life worthy” since western people don’t walk together anymore due to modern transportation. How sad…
The third is a paraphrase like The Message and Living Bible, and is akin to the dynamic equivalent in some ways. These attempt to only use a vague recollection of the original Scripture and end up with a translation that’s far flung at best.
Again, using our example, The Message renders it as “I want you to get out there and walk—better yet, run!—on the road God called you to travel. I don’t want any of you sitting around on your hands.” What? This, in our opinion, is the least reliable and harmful of all translation types if used for the main resource of a Bible.
Over the years my colleagues and I here at Walk Worthy and in other kingdom work have hoped for a new and fresh translation of the Bible. Why?
The original Bible is a high context mid-east document given by the Holy Spirit thousands of years ago. It contains minimal information since a) the ancients knew the “context” extremely well, and b) to save space. Our western culture is low context which means true saints want to know every single Bible detail. An adequate modern Bible version might be too large to carry in an automobile due to its size!
I asked the Lord that this work would contain two distinct elements.
One, its crucial to include extra amplification wherever needed. For example, the Word only says “they crucified Him” (Luke 23.33). No additional information is given of this heinous torture which includes being naked on the cross in front of family, losing control of your bowels by urinating and defecating all over oneself, and experiencing a penal erection at the very end just before death.
And two, the translation would include living elements of modern life to make the richness and sobriety of the life of a little Christ, a real Christian, come alive!
Now, we’re not adding or subtracting anything from the original intent of God Almighty. This is purely a help to both the saints and the lost that they clearly see the heart of God and His kingdom desires and requirements. The original doctrines and teachings are faithful and true. If you see any areas we can improve and/or revise, please let us know at once.
Just how vital is this to the Lord and our eternal destiny?
Hebrews 4:11-13 Therefore let us be diligent to enter that rest, so that no one will fall, through following the same example of disobedience.
For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.
Amen…
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The New Amplified Living Translation (NALT) is a new paraphrase Bible translation from Walk Worthy ministries combining the elements of amplification, today’s needs, and the literal words of the original Hebrew and Greek manuscripts.
We at Walk Worthy in no way suggest that you substitute daily Bible reading and meditation in regular translations such as literal-formal (NASB, NKJV, KJV, ESV) or dynamic equivalent (NIV, GW). Always and forever study to show yourself approved to our great and holy God.
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Please comment on this post right below. Feel free to write and proclaim your leadings in the Spirit in an honorable fashion.
Your friend and brother in fighting the good fight,
Marc
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Saints, we’re one day closer to Home, and Him! Love Him wholeheartedly!
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You may view our Archives here: BIBLE TRANSLATION – ARCHIVES; Complete Archives. May our Father richly bless you with His grace, through Jesus Christ our Lord, in order to walk worthy of His name.
Please comment on this post right below. Feel free to write and proclaim your leadings in the Spirit in an honorable fashion.
Marc White, Director, Walk Worthy Ministries, www.WalkWorthy.org
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