New Version Of The Bible Is A Disconnect From Diligent Bible Study

This NPR.org article, presents and discusses a new version of the Bible in an "easy to read" format. The new version is entitled 'Manuscripts' (see here). The originators of this new version admit that "each section of text is arranged in a single column, devoid of verse numbers and footnotes, so it reads less like a textbook." Beloved, when we void verse numbers and footnotes, we are setting ourselves up for major trouble in our study of the Bible (see why here).

In the above NPR.org article, the two key words presented with regard to the new version of the Bible is "ease" and "easy". The key word used by the inspired writer Paul in 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV is "study" or to "give diligence to" (ASV - 1901). The word "diligence" (Strong's 4704) means "to exert one's self" - "labor" - and is connected with the word "study" (see here). In the dictionary, the word "diligence" means someone who works hard and carefully - one who tries to do everything right (see here), and this writer might add, does it right the first time (see here). Does this sound like an endeavor that is "easy" or something done with "ease"? (to ask the question is to answer the question). Beloved, we must "work" and work "diligently" in both our reading and study of the Bible. Any less effort should be classified as sheer laziness on our part (see here).

If there are no explicit chapters and verse numbers in the above "new version", one cannot possibly connect the key words and phrases found in each book of the Bible (see here), including the totality of scripture (see here), and come to a correct analysis of any text we are studying. For example, take the phrase, "the blood of Christ" which appears verbatim in the King James Version of the New Testament four times (1 Peter 1:19; Hebrews 9:14; Ephesians 2:12-13; 1 Corinthians 10:16). With each of the four scripture references presented, one finds important lessons about the function and significance of the blood of Jesus (see here). Without verse numbers, how will this be possible in the above "new version"? Once again, to ask the question is to answer the question.

From the above logical thoughts, we can plainly see why this new 'Manuscripts' version of the Bible is a disconnect from diligent Bible study. Along with the Bible (not the "easy to read" one), this blog writer highly recommends Frank J. Dunn's book "Know Your Bible" where brother Dunn not only lists seven reasons why we should all seek to know the Bible (see here), but includes additional key words and phrases found in each book of the Bible (plus an analysis of each book).

---Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets

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