Three Reasons I Read the ESV

When I get the opportunity to read from the Word of God in public, I read from the ESV.

When I study the Bible in my quiet time, I read the ESV.

When I quote scripture on NoCamo, I quote ESV.

No, this isn’t a commercial for Crossway.

I just like the English Standard Version.

Why? Three reasons…

1. I believe in using a literal translation. The ESV is essentially a word-for-word translation. Their website says that the ESV emphasizes “word-for-word” accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning.
2. I appreciate its readability. It reads similarly to the NIV, though maybe a little dryer. But it does so, as I said, in a word-for-word context.
3. It has established itself as a lasting translation in a short span of time. In other words, I don’t believe it is going away any time soon. And unlike other translations, I do not believe it will be updated and phased out, unavailable in its current form again.

What translation do you prefer. Why?

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. 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.”