How To Choose a Translation for All It’s Worth: A Guide to Understanding and Using Bible Versions
Gordon D. Fee & Mark L. Strauss 2007 Zondervan
I ordered this book in hopes of gaining understanding of the different translations available today. Like others, I wondered if some of these translations are authoritative, Fee and Strauss did not disappoint.
Among the most beneficial text in the book is the chart on page 34. It divides eighteen of the most commercial translations available into three categories: Formal Equivalence (or versions), Functional Equivalence and Mediating. He defines the formal as those which make Hebrew and Greek understandable. Functional versions modify the text to make it more natural. Mediating is that which explains the text. The chart includes strengths and weaknesses of each grouping. The text of the chapter offers detailed information concerning the meaning and task of each translation.
When addressing style and format issues within a translation, the authors suggest that readers should read the Bible as stories rather than chapters and verses. Scripture was “intended” (p123) to be read by genre; the “epistles as real letters and Hebrew Psalms as poetry.”
Fee and Strauss bring a great measure of expertise to this work. Gordon Fee is an American theologian, ordained minister and retired professor of New Testament Studies from Regent College, Vancouver Canada. Strauss is a Biblical scholar and professor at Bethel Seminary, San Diego. The writing is a comprehensive work that will help the reader “chose a translation for all it’s worth.”
I recommend it to those who wish to fully understand the process of translating the scripture from original Greek and Hebrew. Beware, it is not a casual read.
The MAP: Making the Bible Meaningful, Accessible, Practical
Nick Page
The book delivers on the promise to make the Bible meaningful, accessible & practical. Meaningful in that Page references familiar stories and passages. His metaphor of a map carries through visually as one reads. It is accessible due to Page’s format. He uses many graphics and sidebars that are consistent throughout the chapters. Each book begins with a “Quick Guide” that gives the author, genre, purpose, a key verse and a memory point. Practical because the author addresses information that normal readers need. It is not overly literary or scholarly.
Page’s choice of key verses does not always make sense to the book’s theme. He openly admits the book does not require a complete reading of the Bible. He gives you a “representative sample of the book”. In my opinion, this book is a good supplement to a more in depth study of the Bible.
Page’s conversational style of writing makes his writing easy reading. However, some comments can be controversial to the conservative Christian. His sidebars entitled “Puzzling Points” could be used by skeptics to contradict the truth of the Bible.
Page’s conversational style of writing makes his writing easy reading. However, some comments can be controversial to the conservative Christian. His sidebars entitled “Puzzling Points” could be used by skeptics to contradict the truth of the Bible.Nick Page identifies as “writer, information designer and creative consultant.” His website describes him as “writer, speaker, unlicensed historian, information-monger, applied ranter.” The website also calls him a “popular speaker for churches, church weekends, retreats, book festivals and other events.” While his books appear written for a Christian audience, no mention of Christ or Christianity is mentioned in his website or biography. Nor is there any information of his background and/or training. Nick Page appears online to be respected among the Christian community of the UK where he lives and writes.
The MAP is a valid resource for the reader looking for more insight to the books of the Bible. However, having no knowledge of his other writings and no posted credentials or faith statements, the reader should read discerningly. The MAP should not be the only resource consulted. For this author, The MAP confirmed information from other sources and/or stated a fact in a more reader-friendly format. As a resource, it was helpful in researching dates and little known Bible characters. On the few occasions when Page disagreed with other resources, this author quoted resources with clear statements of faith.
Revelation: God’s Word for the Biblical Inept
Daymond R. Duck
“Revelation (God’s Word for the Biblically-Inept) is a revolutionary commentary for those who are not interested in all the complicated stuff.”
Daymond R. Duck actually does include the “complicated stuff” in this writing but, he uncomplicates it for the common reader. In this, one of the many books he has authored on the topic of prophecy, he promises to keep it simple. And he delivers.
Rev. Duck uses a verse by verse application with icons for sixteen pragmatic sections. Each chapter covers one chapter of the book of Revelation beginning with sidebars announcing the chapter highlights, cross referenced scriptures and definitions of pertinent terms for the chapter. An introduction to the chapter is quickly followed by the verse by verse NIV text included.
Despite the not so current events and Duck’s scholarly position, his writing is easy, understandable and Biblically sound. The sections directing the reader to enhanced understanding are enjoyable as well as educational. Cross referencing scripture enhances the prophecy and is a bonus for those wanting to go further in their study.
Despite the not so current events and Duck’s scholarly position, his writing is easy, understandable and Biblically sound. The sections directing the reader to enhanced understanding are enjoyable as well as educational. Cross referencing scripture enhances the prophecy and is a bonus for those wanting to go further in their study.
All in all, this is a must have for the ordinary Christian seeking to understand Revelation without being terrified!
NOTE: In 2010, Larry Richards and Zondervan Publishing released an updated copy of Duck’s original entitled “Revelation, The Smart Guide to the Bible” in paperback and Kindle edition.