Of course, I could cite hundreds of brilliant renderings in The Message, and sometimes, when preaching, I'll cite one of them, since it powerfully drills home the point. (a) (The Message) "Since we want to become spiritually one with the Master, we must not pursue the kind of sex that avoids commitment and intimacy leaving us more lonely than ever - the kind of sex that can never "become one"." (b) Comment: Sexual immorality is reduced to "the kind of sex that avoids commitment and intimacy". So, The Messagedoes speak about those who "use and abuse each other, use and abuse sex," but what in the world does that mean? The following is a list of Bible translations that should be avoided for any real and faithful personal Bible study (in a separate article we will look at a list of Bible translations that are encouraged for use). Your email address will not be published. Even in moderation, alcohol use causes significant problemsphysically, mentally, and spiritually. Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email. The ESV reads: "You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination. I admit it can be useful in bringing clarity to certain passages, but one must learn to work through the actual scriptures, which takes effort, dedication and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The second most dangerous way to read the Bible is to let someone create preconceived notions for you. This raises questions about how accurately The Message reflects the original intent of Scripture. Bible translations are usually broken down into three major categories: Word-for-word or Formal Equivalence, Thought-for-Thought or Dynamic Equivalence, and Paraphrase. One need only look at how the cultural mindset of those who use the Message tends towards a theologically liberal or completely postmodern way of looking at things. The Bible is therefore a highly dangerous. 4) Good News Translation (GNT) - Also known as the Good News Bible (GNB), the GNT was created by the American Bible Society as a translation that would be simple enough for anyone to easily pick up and understand, including individuals learning the English language and children. And this is why, as Bible Gateway general manager Rachel Barach told Christianity Today, "The Bible has been criticized, challenged, and banned by individuals, groups, and governments through centuries of persecution.". Jonathan Kotyk There were phone calls and emails to the minister, as well as people appearing at the church office to complain about me to him in person. It confirms science, reveals the Messiah, and proves that it is supernatural in origin. Although it is a . 1Cor. Danger #2 "False guilt". I had to sit through two church services tailored to support the churchs use of The Message. 16 "Stay alert. This mans interpretation is not always correct, nor is it always what the Spirit wants YOU to get from it. There is a tool for every job. Like you, I too have had a past of far left and far right exposure politically and spiritually but these days I am where Jesus was Render unto Caesar what is Caesars and unto God what us Gods Follow the Great Commission. "[4], The Message was translated by Peterson from the original languages. There was no malice in eating and therefore not offensive. The Message Bible is a paraphrase version of the Bible. One person stormed up to me and demanded that I send her no more emails. This is why HE he stated that the Sabbath was made for man, man wasnt made for the Sabbath. The New Testament instructs believers to seek guidance from God and his Spirit only. 12 and forgive us our sins, just as we have forgiven those who have sinned against us. 1)It is often presented as being a Bible translation in modern language. Teaching the New Testament can be a dangerous thing. Rooted in his "translation" philosophy, Peterson has produced a "Message" which is nothing more than a commentary published as a translation. I reminded them that we are told to have no fellowship with darkness (Ephesians 5:11) which should mean we dont use that book as a resource. And not a great church to go to if salvation is paramount. 13 And lead us not into temptation, Many believers enjoy reading The Message because of its modern appeal; however, it is important to recognize that this unconventional version can have serious detrimental implications. Difficulty Finding a Modern Interpretation of the Bible. I admire your article and agree with the recommendation not to depend heavily on it alone. Reveal who you are. 7. Tyndale got a Bible into the hands of the common person. He introduced himself as a God of grace in Genesis. This one comes from the New Apostolic Reformation ( NAR) camp, from the brain of one man, a human-appointed "Apostle.". Galatians 1:8 condemns in the most severe terms the one who changes the gospel message of salvation. This premise, however, is dangerous and has been the cause of much bigotry, intolerance, injustice and pain.The truth is that there is no proof that this collection of books is the Word of God. This should be emphasized whenever a preacher or teacher quotes from it, I believe. he leads me beside quiet waters, In some places, The Message actually alters the gospel. Here are five countries where owning a Bible is dangerous. The CEV uses an even more simplified version of English than the GNT. Or even that the sacrificed child is evil. Those who gossip & slander are not in right fellowship with God (Rom. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. I agree The Message and other interpretive commentary, and modernized Scriptures of the Bible, are not best for study. So notice: The Bible is not meant to be placed on a shelf, but to be in your hands, to read oftenevery day, both on your own and together with others.". Today we have a different minister and new faces among the leadership. Many young people who want to serve on a short-term basis with us in the the Scottish housing schemes are on fire for the poor and passionate about being "missional" and "breaking down barriers.". Compare Micah 3:5 in the MESSage bible to the King James Bible and others. Refusing to know God, they soon didn't know how to be human either women didn't know how to be women, men didn't know how to be men. It's been the case from the beginning that Christians are slandered, and one of the worst slanders is to consider our love dangerous. 3) The Living Bible (TLB) - First published in 1971, The Living Bible is another paraphrase translation by sole translator, Kenneth Taylor. And why are they persecuted? 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. Learn why this "gospel lite" illusion is such a seductive, powerful delusion for Christians and how you can avoid it in your walk of faith. Amen. I got the phrase As above, so below which appears in The Message and googled it alongside the word Satanism in the presence of the minister. In Luke 9:61-62, we read of Jesus' conversation with a person who wanted to follow Him, but was denied due to this reason. Some people are more religious than GOD. Doing so would be like saying that the fire used in the sacrifice is also evil. as we also have forgiven our debtors. Your article caught my eye because The Message has never sat well with me, precisely because, as you point out, it is a paraphrase and not a formal translation. Your email address will not be published. [2], According to the Introduction to the New Testament of The Message, its "contemporary idiom keeps the language of the Message (Bible) current and fresh and understandable". Instead, they must be kind and gentle and not love money. That is our job. 2) The Passion Translation (TPT) - This is another paraphrase translation like The Message. Complaining isn't harmless sport; it's serious sin. However, despite this attractive feature, it is not a translation that should be used for the seriousness of Bible study, as the simplistic use of English in the Good News Translation has come at a price. 5. The Message Bible has become a field manual for false teachers. But whatever it is, it STILL shouldnt be twisting scripture. You are right-on! But nowhere in Scripture is sound thinking discouraged. Michael Brown holds a Ph.D. in Near Eastern Languages and Literatures from New York University and has served as a professor at a number of seminaries. 4 Even when walking through the dark valley of death I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me, guarding, guiding all the way. Even the publisher of The Message realizes this paraphrase cannot replace a faithful Bible translation, and I would argue further that it has the potential to ultimately mislead. In addition, Matthew 6:20 speaks of the lamp of the body being the eye. It is far more difficult to treat with love and kindness someone who disagrees with your faith than it is to denounce and dismiss them (as Paul did). They read a passage of The Message that theyve written down or read it from an app on their cell phone. Return to homepage. Yes. from. In sum, my view today of The Messageis the same as it has been for years, unchanged by the controversial events of this week. And there were other translation before the KJ Bible. makes me feel secure. However, I found that often The Message is a wonderful commentary as it helps gel the other versions in a better light for me. That is abhorrent. For a fair assessment of Dr. Peterson's comments and retraction this week, see Bill Muehlenberg's article here. I always have my NKJV Bible with me and when I saw what was on the screen it did appear correct from what I read in the NKJV. Psalm 119:1-2. They still didnt admit that it was a dubious practice to incorporate this book into a church service, but instead gave the reason that it was causing offence in the church. God's cautions are for our good, and ignoring His guidance and commands opens us up to being misled. 1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. as above, so below. 26 Comments While some good pastors may use it by mistake, many wolves love its language and use it to manipulate the flocks. They are persecuted because they wear a cross and bear witness to Jesus. 1) The Message (MSG) - This translation is a paraphrase by Eugene Peterson. 1. 10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Jesus Embodied God's Grace. The Bible warns against personal interpretations of Scripture (2 Peter 1:20). Garbage - Life's Little Slices. The goal of The Message is to engage people in the reading process and help them understand what they read. (Dis)Honorable Mention: Two translations that most Christians know to avoid but should still be mentioned are the New World Translation (NWT), which was commissioned by the Jehovahs Witness cult and the Readers Digest Bible, which cuts out about 55% of the Old Testament and another 25% of the New Testament (including Revelation 22:19, which says, if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book). [3], The publisher states: "Peterson's work has been thoroughly reviewed by a team of recognized Old and New Testament scholars to ensure that it is accurate and faithful to the original languages. In his book the Bible he expressly commands us not to change his words (Proverbs 30:6, Revelation 22:19). Its always better to refer to Scripture than to quote any pastor, preacher, biblical scholar, theological professor, etc., no matter where they are in their walk with Christ. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 2) When pastors preach from it, it encourages people to use it, this is dangerous because the Message is full of errors, false doctrine, and occult philosophy. It is a potential danger even for those who avoid its more obvious . English Standard Version (ESV): Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Answer Ignorance is the lack of knowledge or understanding. Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. Your kingdom come, Samaritans and Jews also disagreed over their holy sites. People dont see the name of the book. Rise to the occasion and preach when it is convenient and when it is not. The Revised Standard Version of the Bible was presented to the public as a completed . To them, the Bible is the world's most dangerous book. One of the most dangerous Bible revisions on the market today is "THE MESSAGE." This horrible PERversion which butchers the Word of God was published in 2002. . Sometimes we are ignorant because we did not know there was a need to learn something. We love each other, and we're not using or abusing each other.". Through Jesus Christ, we have been freed from the bondage of sin and death. 2. The most dangerous verses in the Bible will have no bearing on us when we are saved and sure; not placing our faith in the work that we have done, but rather in Christ and His finished work. Does this post violate any norms, rules, or others that you aware of? 11 Give us our food again today, as usual, Translation Comparison - Matthew 16:16-18, Good News Translation (GNT): Simon Peter answered, You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.. He asked his people to respect his grace in Numbers. He commanded them to remember his grace in Deuteronomy. The Message Bible Good vs. Thats why the bible says were should study to show ourselves approved. There are sections where the message really brings an idea into easy-to-understand language, but for me there is far too much dumbing down and softening of scripture. The following article hopes to help you make more suitable choices and get more useful information "The Message offers vibrant language that awakens my heart to the wonders of God's Word again and again. Human pride and boasting are utterly foolish and a great danger before this righteous God (2:11-17; 10:33; 13:11; 16:6; 23:9; 28:1-4). So every version that we read from is a translated interpretation. If you're reading the ESV (or most other translations) and you're sleeping with your girlfriend or committing adultery with your neighbor's spouse or practicing homosexuality, Paul's words will hit you between the eyes: "Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality . In this powerful message, Pastor Doug investigates a very real threat facing the church in the last days: Satan's plan to neutralize the transforming power of the gospel. Hoping it will appear in Google listings in time. Church officials must be in control of their own families, and they must see that their children are obedient and always respectful. My answer to the question remains the same today as it has always been: The Message is not a translation and should not be used as your primary Bible. A book through which God speaks. answer the question why the message bible is dangerous, which will help you get the most accurate answer. Some scholars, like Michael J. Gorman, consider some of Peterson's idiomatic renderings unconventional. Paraphrase is often written by a single author who translates the Bible in their own words, sometimes not even using the original biblical languages as a foundation. The Samaritans, however, believed that their temple, on Mount Gerizim, was where true worship . Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others. There are many issues I have with the Message translation, but for the sake of space I am only listing three of them. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. I found it helpful to cobble together a resource from various websites showing examples of how The Message has tampered with Bible verses, misrepresented the gospel, and added occult and New Age words. This has been a concern for my friend Ken Berding, who has been doing detailed work in the Greek New Testament and several English translations. I am not alone. Gossip always distorts and exaggerates, and is never a reliable source of truth. HE did say murder is a sin, which is ending the life of another human. The Message communicates their lack of sincerity, but it loses the message of God's coming wrath. To be fair, a more accurate comparison might be to the Jehovas In this case, divination is completely neutral. The answer to why people spend so much time studying the Bible is simple: it is the Word of God! 6. And notice also the reference in The Messageto those who "use and abuse the earth and everything in it." You committed to reading x amount of chapters or studying God's Word for x amount of minutes each day. According to NavPress, publisher of Eugene Peterson's The Message The Bible in Contemporary Language, there have been over 10,000,000 readers of The Message. The Living Bible (TLB): When the Gentiles heard this, they were very glad and rejoiced in Pauls message; and as many as wanted eternal life, believed. Bibles are banned and those found in possession of one face imprisonment, torture and even death - as do up to three generations of their family. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Matthew 3:7 Meaning lost: In Matt 3:7, John the Baptist challenges the sincerity of the Pharisees in requesting baptism and warns that they face God's wrath. We have to read them for what they say, not for what we want them to say. Finally, I have to say, the attitudes in a lot of these comments and from the opinion of the author is why many people are leaving the practice of Christianity. The latter error seems to me to be the more common danger in the church. Ignorant people are either unaware or uninformed. I so appreciate your comment, when reading the message bible which is use In my church along with the NIV and both are use, I found it to be valuable to understanding Gods word it not replacing the Bible , it all about evolving period! I saw new believers using The Message as their actual Bible during a study, and felt like The Message was robbing them of some choice meat when they read passages from it that were flowery but so watered-down. A confused sheep relies more readily on the institution for support. 4 Even though I walk when you walk at my side. When did Paul write this? I've even cited The Messagein some of my academic, biblical commentary writing. Song of Solomon: Most Amazing . Where secrecy is removed, gossip is hampered. It is written in a conversational style with contemporary language, making it easier for readers to relate to on a personal level. I ended up hearing The Message defined as all kinds of things to try to dismiss the problem that it tampered with scripture a practice which the Bible itself condemns. I hallowed be your name, ", Dr. Peterson's paraphrase here is vivid and powerful, with nothing watered down or weakened, describing the most debased aspects of homosexual practice in stark, clear terms. Surely Peterson should do the same. An overwhelming number of these translations suffer from the strong bias of an unfaithful group of translators. At one point, I emailed as many people in the church whose email addresses I could find, showing the problems with the book. HE never said that. The Message has sold over 10 million copies and has continually ranked among the top five best-selling Bibles. With verse markings (The Message: The Numbered Edition): This page was last edited on 2 March 2023, at 03:21. My answer to the question remains the same today as it has always been: The Messageis not a translation and should not be used as your primary Bible. The Message Bible translation by Eugene H. Peterson is a paraphrase of the scriptures using modern English, the author claims he is trying to make the Bible understandable to the average person. [5] The work was awarded the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association Gold Medallion in 2003 for being the title retailers prized.[6][7]. What The Message did to The Lords Prayer as you outlined here is startling all the revolutionary meaning has been sliced and diced away. And so I tell you, Peter: you are a rock, and on this rock foundation I will build my church, and not even death will ever be able to overcome it. Your trusty shepherds crook John Clark: Ise, thank you for sharing and for your openness. Millions of evangelicals and other Christian fundamentalists believe that the Bible was essentially dictated by God to men who acted as human channelers. He was speaking about HIS physical attributes. The reason it is so dangerous is that Satan blinds them and convinces them that God is not real, which keeps the person from pursuing spiritual truth, like the afterlife and the Creator of the universe. God says, in Isaiah 1:18, "Come now and let us reason together." With alcohol use we temporarily and permanently stupefy our reasoning powers. 1:18 For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. This is the latest development: a 16-page booklet available on Ebay.com that anyone around the world can order and give out: Evangelical Christian Publishers Association, "Introduction to the New Testament, from The Message", "2006 Christian Book Awards Winners - Bibles category", Eugene Peterson interview at a U2 fansite, The Holy Bible from Ancient Eastern Manuscripts, Jewish Publication Society of America Version, New Jewish Publication Society of America Tanakh, New English Translation of the Septuagint, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=The_Message_(Bible)&oldid=1142387790, Short description is different from Wikidata, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, Robert L. Hubbard Jr., North Park Theological Seminary (chair), Richard E. Averbeck, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Bryan E. Beyer, Columbia International University, Duane A. Garrett, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Donald R. Glenn, Dallas Theological Seminary, Paul R. House, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University, John N. Oswalt, Asbury Theological Seminary, Prescott H. Williams Jr., Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, William W. Klein, Denver Seminary (chair), Moises Silva, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Rodney A. Whitacre, Trinity School of Ministry.