Which version of the Bible is the easiest to ...

JF-

Here are good translations of the Bible- NAS, RSV (opposed to NRSV), NKJV. NIV is reasonably close. None of these are going to be easy to read right across the board.

Here is a good paraphrase- CEV.

I would get one of each (one good translation and the CEV).

NWT is indeed a product of the JWs. Their Greek scholarship is woeful. Their translation is inconsistent and is made to support their errant doctrines. Here is a link to support my views- http://www.waltermartin.com.

www.biblegateway.com will let you have unlimited access to many different translations.

e-Sword.net is a free download, and is excellent.

Num. 6:24-26.

JayR

The New International Version

Hi. you can find an Amplified Bible at most Christian Book Stores. I'm sure that they would be happy to let you look through it, read it as long as you want to before commiting to buy it. Here is some of the Preface:

In 1958 The Lockman Foundation and Zondervan Publishing House issued the first edition of The Amplified New Testament after more than 20,000 hours of research and prayerful study. Some four years later the first of two Old Testament volumes appeared (The Amplified Old Testament, Part Two- Job to Malachi), followed in 1964 by the publication of The Amplified Old Testament, Part One- Genesis to Esther. The next year (1965) The Amplified Bible came out in one volume.

Now, twenty two years later, Zondervan Bible Publishers and The Lockman Foundation are pleased to present The Amplified Bible, Expanded Edition. The purpose of all the characters in the story of the making of The Amplified Bible is still relevant today; to communicate the Word of God to people and to exalt Jesus Christ. This has been the fourfold aim of The Lockman Foundation from the beginning. #1. These publications shall be true to the original Hebrew and Greek.  #2. They shall be grammatically correct.  #3. They shall be understandable to the masses.  #4. They shall give the Lord Jesus his proper place, the place which the Word gives Him.

I'll tell ya, as a Christian, I appreciate having a copy of this Ampified Bible in my home so much that I bought a Large print leather bound edition and had my Family name engraved on the cover!

By the way, I was raised as a Jehovah's Wittness. They really are very lovely people, interesting.  God Bless ya'll.

Hi Jesusfreak! 

I would like to also suggest getting an Amplified Bible. What it does is elaborate a lot on the written word, and gives a much deeper explanation and understanding of what is being said.. I think you'd like having one around.. in addition.

It seems like no matter what I say, you will maintain the position you have re: them and though I cannot change your mind, I can defend them. I have had many questions about the Bible and all of them have been answered clearly and concisely no matter what translation I've used when speaking with them. Their Bible is not contradictory - do you have specific incidents/scriptures/questions? You have to remember the history of the King James version which is not a true translation from the original manuscripts. You need only to read the Forward in KJ to find this out. Secondly, the original manuscript uses the translated word stauros for stake which was used by people during the time Jesus was on earth. People who later translated the Bible inserted cross. History has proven that a cross was not used (please read any encylopedia). Thirdly, they do believe that the book of Revelation was written in signs and symbols and is truly a book of the future and that soon the events in Revelation will happen as it is a book of prophecy. They also do not convert, they try to teach you the truth because so many people are confused and have their teaching mingled with doctrines that have absolutely no biblical support and proof.  And, if you can find one perfect religion with all perfect followers please let me know because I will run to it. I am not on yedda to argue or debate. I hope you have a good day.

Point noted. You are right, understanding another's viewpoint is key and something helpful in a discussion. Thanks for the info.