The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has recently updated its “General Handbook: Serving in The Church.” This update includes new guidance on Bible translations, emphasizing a preference for Church-published editions. The King James Version (KJV) remains the recommended Bible for English-speaking members during Church classes and meetings.
New Guidance on Bible Translations
Elder Dale G. Renlund, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, chairs the Church’s Scriptures Committee. He acknowledges the beauty of the KJV but notes its complexity for some readers. Elder Renlund encourages the use of multiple translations to enhance understanding without compromising doctrinal truths.
Understanding Through Language
The handbook highlights the importance of comprehension in the teachings of the Bible, citing Doctrine and Covenants 1:24. It asserts that God communicates in ways humans can understand, allowing followers to accept His teachings more readily.
Recommended Translations
To assist members in their scriptural studies, the Church provides a list of approved translations, including:
- English Standard Version (ESV) – Ages 14 and above
- New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) – Ages 14 and above
- New International Version (NIV) – Ages 11 to 13
- New Living Translation (NLT) – Ages 11 to 13
- New King James Version (NKJV) – Ages 14 and above
- New International Reader’s Version (NIrV) – Ages 8 and above
Each translation is recognized for its readability and clarity of doctrine, aligning with teachings in the Book of Mormon and modern revelations.
Global Editions
In various languages, the Church publishes editions that further support members’ understanding. For instance, it offers the Reina-Valera 2009 edition in Spanish and Almeida 2015 in Portuguese, among others.
The Impact of Modern Translations
Many members have found that using modern translations helps in their spiritual journey. Elder Jörg Klebingat points out that contemporary Bible translations should not be viewed as inferior. He notes that translators often work from manuscripts unavailable to earlier scholars.
Sister Tamara W. Runia expresses hope that all members feel welcomed, regardless of their chosen translation. She emphasizes the profound influence of scripture on personal spirituality.
Personal Stories of Transformation
Individuals like Alysia Burdge from Washington State illustrate the positive impact of using accessible translations. Alysia, who has ADHD, found clarity in a modern translation gifted by her grandmother, enhancing her understanding of scripture.
In the Philippines, Marc De La Peña Barredo, an institute teacher, reports similarly positive outcomes from exploring various translations, enhancing his teaching effectiveness.
In Utah, Seth Stewart, a parent of neurodivergent children, shares that accessible translations have significantly enriched their family scripture study. For those concerned about transitioning to different translations, Elder Renlund reassures members that insights can be drawn from multiple sources of scripture.
The Church encourages all followers to explore various Bible translations, fostering a deeper connection with God through His word.
