Top 10 Most Popular Bible Translations For Beginners (2024)
What are currently the most popular Bible translations?
When I say, “popular,” I mean the Bible translations that are considered the bestsellers according to the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association.
As of January 2024, we will discover the most popular Bible translations.
Let’s dive into it!
What Are The Most Popular Bible Translations?
1. New International Version (NIV)
The NIV is without a doubt the most popular Bible versions in the English speaking world. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the NIV1984 version when I was a new Christian.
The only thing I would caution about the most up-to-date version is not the most literal translation.
2. King James Version (KJV)
The KJV (or King James Bible) is loved by many. It is one of the oldest translation of the bible that still maintains the archaic language and old English, such as Thee, Thou, etc.
The KJV was published in 1611 and translated by 50 academics appointed by King James.
It is not for all Bible readers, especially if they are new Christians.
3. New Living Translation (NLT)
The NLT is a contemporary English version that makes the Bible understandable and accessible for readers. It is a thought-for-thought translation (or leaning more towards the paraphrase).
The only time I ever use the NLT is when I am studying a difficult verse, and I want to see how the NLT renders it. Other than that, I would not use it for serious Bible study.
4. English Standard Version (ESV)
The ESV was published in 2001 by Crossway. The ESV is a literal translation that has gained popularity in the past decade. Their ESV Study Bible is my favourite. At this moment, this is my personal favourite Bible translation. I use it for my Bible study and preaching.
5. Christian Standard Bible (CSB)
The CSB was designed to make reading enjoyable, easy, and clear. I can imagine that the CSB will eventually get more popular as the time goes on. Their CSB Study Bible has some of the most comprehensive notes.
6. New King James Version (NKJV)
The NKJV is based on the famous King James Version, but updating older words to fit with modern English.
7. Reina Valera
Reina Valera is a Spanish translation. I am not Spanish. Nevertheless, this translation of the Bible is the most beloved among the Spanish-speaking churches.
8. New International Reader’s Version (NIrV)
The NIrV is based off of the NIV, but it is known as the reader’s edition. Since the NIV is already understandable, this offers an easier and clearer readability.
This reader’s edition is generally good for children who are beginning to read the Bible.
9. New American Standard Bible (NASB)
Th NASB was published in 1960 was an impressive example of literal translation in English of Bible texts. I would recommend you to stick with the 1995 version as it is considered the most accurate translation.
The newer edition (2020) has sadly moved away from its predecessors as it tries to be more inclusive with its gender-neutral pronouns.
10. New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
The NRSV is based on the Revised Standard Version. The NRSV is becoming an important Bible translation for scholars in seminaries and Bible colleges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Most Accurate Bible Translation?
Learning how to choose the most accurate Bible translation requires discernment.
The NASB is considered the most accurate bible translation. However, the Legacy Standard Bible (LSB) aims to refine the NASB1995.
What Are The Translation Philosophies Of Bible Translations?
There are generally two translation philosophies: the literal translation and the free translation.
The literal translation is also known as “the word for word translation.” It aims to translate the Bible accurately and closely from the original language.
The free translation is also known as “the thought for thought translation.” It aims to communicate the main sense of the Bible so that it is easier for readers to understand.
What Are The Bible Translations That I Should Avoid?
There are several Bible translations you should avoid, but such as the Passion Translation and the New World Translation.
What version of the Bible should I start with?
I recommend you to start with the version that your church or pastor uses.
