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Download Gunn, George - History of the Bible in English 1.0

Synopsis:

King James and Other Versions by George Gunn Professor of Biblical Languages, Shasta Bible College
<http://www.shasta.ed...n/kingjames.htm>

Recently, some controversy has arisen over the issue of Bible versions. While some recommend modern language translations as a way for today's Bible reader to obtain greater understanding of God's Word, others assert that such modern versions are vastly inferior to the King James Version and should not be used. I am one who believes in the validity and helpfulness of some modern translations, and I would like to explain why in this booklet.

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This booklet is not intended to be a full scholarly treatment of the subject. Such a task would require a full length book with some rather technical discussions. Instead, It is my hope to present this material in a more popular, easily understood format. For those who desire more in-depth reading, I have included a bibliography of material I have found helpful.
 

Conclusion:

In the small handful of verses where variant readings significantly altered the meaning, no major point of Christian doctrine was seriously impacted by either reading. I am convinced, beyond any shadow of doubt, that, all other things being equal, if two sincerely born-again Christians were shipwrecked on two separate desert islands, and one had a King James Version Bible while the other had a New American Standard Bible, they would both end up with the same Christianity, the same Christ, the same salvation, the same theology.

I believe the responsibility of determining, to the best of our ability, the original text of the New Testament, is a responsibility that we must take seriously. But, at the same time, I also believe that different approaches to this task can exist along side each other in conservative, fundamental churches. I have seen too many good churches divided over the issue of Bible translations.

And I will say quite frankly, that I believe this kind of dissension is only applauded by the enemy of our souls. As long as the devil can keep us busy fighting one another on the issue of Bible versions, he will keep us from reaching the lost with the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. As a friend of mine, who happens to be a King James Only proponent, said, "Ultimately, I don't care so much what Bible a Christian has, as long as he obeys the Bible he has." To that sentiment from a King James Only proponent, I can say a hearty "Amen."