The Difference In Translations

There are many different translations of God's word. Some people feel it's wrong to use anything other than the King James Version and some people find a version they like and stick with it. Personally, for general study I prefer the New International Version, however I will often cross reference with other translations to get a different perspective on a passage. As I was studying tonight for my lesson tomorrow, I came across a great verse that really struck a chord with me. Read it below and really spend a few minutes letting the meaning sink in.

Hebrews 12:1 (New Living Translation)

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.

Now one of my favorite translations is The Message. In my opinion it is a very modern version of the Word and can be easily comprehended. Here is the same verse from The Message.

Hebrews 12:1 (The Message)

Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!

Wow! Tell me that isn't awesome! I would encourage you guys to find a translation that you like for your daily bible study, but also to reference other versions to help drive the point home.