The Voice: New Testament

The Voice: New Testament 

The Voice is a new translation from the Ecclesia Bible Society.  The goal is lofty, to update the English translation of the Bible for a modern audience and keep the message intact.  To do this they chose experts in the field of Greek as well as English.  In fact, they chose experts in many facets of English (i.e. poets, screenwriters, etc.).  Together the translation is not strictly word-for-word or thought-for-thought.  Instead, its a blend of the 2 with a narrative/screenplay style in certain places.

I am a fan of this translation style, but not the translation itself.  I see it as a great companion to my KJV.  I was saddened to see the leaving out of the condition in Romans 8:1, the changing of words in Matthew 17:21 and a few other places.  However, as a tool to help with storying, it is impressive!  I would encourage it to be used as a parallel translation.  I did enjoy the style of writing and the use of screenplay format to help bring clarity to the story.  However, I would strongly discourage it for doctrinal study.

I'd give this translation a 2 out of 5.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com  book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”