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Customer Reviews for Thomas Nelson The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Thomas Nelson The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
The Voice Bible translation is a faithful dynamic translation of the Scriptures done as a collage of compelling narratives, poetry, song, truth, and wisdom.
The Voice calls the reader to step into the whole story of Scripture and experience the joy and wonder of God’s revelation. Created for and by a church in great transition, The Voice uniquely represents collaboration among scholars, pastors, writers, musicians, poets, and other artists, giving great attention to the beauty of the narrative. The heart of The Voice is retelling the story of the Bible in a form as fluid as modern literary works yet remaining painstakingly true to the original manuscripts. This translation promotes the public reading of longer sections of Scripture-followed by thoughtful engagement with the biblical narrative in its richness and fullness and dramatic flow.
This is an updated and revised version of the New Testament edition, now at an even more affordable price.
Features include:
The Voice calls the reader to step into the whole story of Scripture and experience the joy and wonder of God’s revelation. Created for and by a church in great transition, The Voice uniquely represents collaboration among scholars, pastors, writers, musicians, poets, and other artists, giving great attention to the beauty of the narrative. The heart of The Voice is retelling the story of the Bible in a form as fluid as modern literary works yet remaining painstakingly true to the original manuscripts. This translation promotes the public reading of longer sections of Scripture-followed by thoughtful engagement with the biblical narrative in its richness and fullness and dramatic flow.
This is an updated and revised version of the New Testament edition, now at an even more affordable price.
Features include:
- Italicized information added to help contemporary readers understand what the original readers would have known intuitively
- In-text commentary notes include cultural, historical, theological, or devotional thoughts
- Screenplay format, ideal for public readings and group studies
- Book introductions
- 8.50" x 5.50" x 1.25"
Average Customer Rating:
(31 Reviews) 31
Rating Snapshot (31 reviews)
5 stars
12
4 stars
11
3 stars
3
2 stars
3
1 star
2
25 out of 3181%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Review 1 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
The Voice
Date:August 15, 2012
outdoorextremeyo
Bookneeze provided me with an e-copy of: The Voice - New TEstement. To be honest, I could not figure out how to download the copy onto my computer. However, here is what Sarah said about it:
Designed to help readers step into the story of scripture, the Voice Bible contains the complete New Testament. A team of scholars and a host of other contributors came together in compiling the scriptures and commentary in an effort to tell the gospel in story form.
I requested this book, hoping not only for a fresh look at my favorite book, but some real meat to gnaw on. I’m not a Bible scholar and am not as studied up as I should be, but this version seemed a little over simplistic. Often the commentary did little more than repeat the previous verse when the meaning was already clear. Also, some of the terminology used and interpretation of scripture left me wondering what the original source of the translation was.
Like I said, I’m not a scholar and have no place knocking any translation on my own merit, but for now, I’m sticking with the New King James Version and the Strong’s Concordance. Not saying The Voice is, but Bible interpretations can be dangerous and destructive, so tread wisely. Pray and listen to His voice in all things.
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Review 2 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
love this Bible
Date:June 22, 2012
Salina
Location:Sinton, Tx
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I received this book from Thomas Nelson Inc. through Netgalley and I must say it took me a while to start using it because I thought it was just another Bible but now that I have used it along with the NIV I do like it! I like the way this bible was worded it reminds me of a study Bible. If there is something I don't understand when reading my NIV I will go to this New testament Bible and it has it worded to where you can understand it so it's easier for me to understand. I am not sure what Version this Bible is just like others are King James or NIV. I don't have anything bad to say about this Bible on how it was written or how it looks and I do plan on recommending this Bible to friends and family.
This is what this Bible is all about:
The VoiceTM Bible translation is a faithful dynamic translation of the Scriptures done as a collage of compelling narratives, poetry, song, truth, and wisdom. The Voice calls the reader to step into the whole story of Scripture and experience the joy and wonder of God's revelation. Created for and by a church in great transition, The Voice uniquely represents collaboration among scholars, pastors, writers, musicians, poets, and other artists, giving great attention to the beauty of the narrative. The heart of The Voice is retelling the story of the Bible in a form as fluid as modern literary works yet remaining painstakingly true to the original manuscripts. This translation promotes the public reading of longer sections of Scripture-followed by thoughtful engagement with the biblical narrative in its richness and fullness and dramatic flow.
This is an updated and revised version of the New Testament edition, now at an even more affordable price.
Features include:
Italicized information added to help contemporary readers understand what the original readers would have known intuitively
In-text commentary notes include cultural, historical, theological, or devotional thoughts
Screenplay format, ideal for public readings and group studies
Book introductions
Step into the story of Scripture
The VoiceTM Bible translation is a faithful dynamic translation of the Scriptures done as a collage of compelling narratives, poetry, song, truth, and wisdom. The Voice calls the reader to step into the whole story of Scripture and experience the joy and wonder of God's revelation. Created for and by a church in great transition, The Voice uniquely represents collaboration among scholars, pastors, writers, musicians, poets, and other artists, giving great attention to the beauty of the narrative. The heart of The Voice is retelling the story of the Bible in a form as fluid as modern literary works yet remaining painstakingly true to the original manuscripts. This translation promotes the public reading of longer sections of Scripture-followed by thoughtful engagement with the biblical narrative in its richness and fullness and dramatic flow.
This is an updated and revised version of the New Testament edition, now at an even more affordable price.
Features include:
Italicized information added to help contemporary readers understand what the original readers would have known intuitively
In-text commentary notes include cultural, historical, theological, or devotional thoughts
Screenplay format, ideal for public readings and group studies
Book introductions
Step into the story of Scripture
A revised version of the New Testament, based on the completed The Voice full Bible
A bold new translation that will engage you like no other Bible
See the artistic beauty of God's words to His people
Connect/reconnect with God in a closer relationship
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Review 3 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Rich and Highly Addictive !
Date:May 31, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Wow! I am just amazed at how much I love this Bible! Since I got it, I have barely been able to stop reading. I am addicted to this Bible! This is very exciting and I am anxious to read the entire NT. The annotations are deeply insightful; for example, in Ephesians one of them says, "Paul knows that the real battles and dangers we face are not against flesh and blood. The enemies we see are real enough, but they are animated by spiritual forces of darkness that stay strategically hidden from view...."
There is an anointing on this Bible. It is such a blessing! God seems to have gifted the people who worked on this translation with special abilities of articulation and expression. Reminds me of God blessing the Israelites with special skills to build the temple(stonecutters, etc.)
My review is inadequate to express the wonders of this Bible translation. I recommend it highly.
There is an anointing on this Bible. It is such a blessing! God seems to have gifted the people who worked on this translation with special abilities of articulation and expression. Reminds me of God blessing the Israelites with special skills to build the temple(stonecutters, etc.)
My review is inadequate to express the wonders of this Bible translation. I recommend it highly.
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Review 4 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
A Bible for New Believers
Date:April 20, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
To review The Voice (New Testament only), I read portions of the New Testament alongside my current Bible, the NASB, for clarity and accurateness. I came away very pleased with this version. They explain that The Voice is a combination of word-for-word and thought-for-thought, of which I usually fall into the word-for-word.
The fact that this is not a gender neutral version appeals to me, as well as the fact that they don’t use today’s trendy language. Their goal was to “capture the beauty and brutal honesty of the Scriptures in a language that is timeless and enduring.” I believe they have accomplished that.
I enjoyed the Screenplay format in the Gospels, as it brought out nuances I wouldn’t have thought of before. In Matthew 26, it states that Caiaphas ‘screeched’ when Jesus spoke of Who He was and His glory with God. Screeched, although I’ve never read it before in the Bible, made me think of demons screeching over the power of God. They are, after all who Jesus was making an open display of and conquering. It gave me a new perspective.
Some of the aspects included are:
Retelling the Bible not simply in words but also meaning and experience
Recapturing the passion, grit, humor and beauty that have been lost in other translations in order to foster spiritual growth and theological explorations out of a heart for the mission of the Church and to worship God
Collage of compelling narrative, poetry, song, truth and wisdom– reading the story of God with your whole heart, soul and mind
Recapturing the passion, grit, humor and beauty that have been lost in other translations in order to foster spiritual growth and theological explorations out of a heart for the mission of the Church and to worship God
Collage of compelling narrative, poetry, song, truth and wisdom– reading the story of God with your whole heart, soul and mind
They include four ways to Step into the Story:
Readings for Advent
Readings for Lent and Easter
Read the New Testament in 24 weeks
Daily readings for personal growth
Readings for Lent and Easter
Read the New Testament in 24 weeks
Daily readings for personal growth
Each book has its own introduction. I love the extra ‘delineated material that expands the theme of the reading, which is disclosed in a second (deep mustard) color that includes cultural, historical, theological or devotional thoughts to enhance your knowledge.’ This further clarifies information pertinent to that portion of Scripture that gives a deeper meaning to the context.
The end of The Voice Bible includes:
Topical guide to the notes
The titles of Jesus
The titles of Jesus
Let The Voice ‘reach, touch, change, move, teach, surprise, heal, inspire, humble and transform you!’ Will this version take the place of my current Bible? Probably not, but it certainly will enhance my understanding of the New Testament in ways never done before! For some of you, this will be your Bible of choice. (It comes in the complete New and Old Testament, but I only have the New Testament.) The purpose of reading the Bible is to grow in Christ as a believer. This version can help you do that!
This Bible was provided by Julie Belschner of Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was exchanged.
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Review 5 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Great New Translation
Date:April 5, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
The Voice New Testament is advertised as a step into the story of scripture. It is a new translation by the Ecclesia Bible Society. It is an easy to read translation for this generation with notes contained throughout the reading. It contains 4 different reading programs for those wishing to read through the Testament in varying lengths of time. The beginning tells of how the translation process from the Greek went and the decisions made on wording. This translation uses inclusive language where it makes sense and specific gender where it makes sense.
I liked this translation. I was able to get involved with the story that Jesus lived and the times lived after his death. It reads like a story. This translation I would probably also buy a waterproof edition to keep in the bathroom it is that good and easy to read. It would be a Bible to put in the hands of the very young it is so easy to understand but also has the completeness to use as a Bible resource during Bible studies. I liked knowing the gender of whom the speaker was talking so I liked this version over exclusive inclusiveness. I was very impressed with this Bible. Thomas Nelson made a good decision to publish this new translation.
I was provided this book for this review. I plan to purchase the Bible in its entirety I liked it this much.
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Review 6 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Unique Dramatization of the New Testament
Date:March 26, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
Looking for a fresh word from The Word of God? Look no further than The Voice, a brand-new, dynamic translation of the New Testament. It's presented as a "collage of compelling narratives, poetry, song, truth, and wisdom." Its creation was meant to promote longer, narrative, dramatic, public readings of the New Testament. Its unique screenplay format will draw audiences in like no other previous translation.
The Voice invites readers to "step into the story of Scripture." Additions and expanded material not found in the original languages are clearly marked in this thought-for-thought translation. Included are introductions to each book and selected readings for all of the ecclesiastical observations.
The Voice is not for everyone. But, if you're looking for a novel, dramatic way to present the story of the New Testament to an audience, then it's for you.
Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy of The Voice from Thomas Nelson via Net Galley in exchange for a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
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Review 7 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Great Gift
Date:March 23, 2012
Barb
Location:Missouri
Age:Over 65
Gender:female
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
I ordered 10 of these and passed them out to my friends...couldn't beat the cost . The print is very small, which is to be expected.
I'm enjoying my copy. It's a good companion to my other Bible. I've ordered the complete Bible and can't wait until I get it. With the full Bible, I'll be able to better evaluate this version as to translation.
I'm enjoying my copy. It's a good companion to my other Bible. I've ordered the complete Bible and can't wait until I get it. With the full Bible, I'll be able to better evaluate this version as to translation.
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Review 8 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Date:March 20, 2012
Quality:
1
out of
5
Value:
1
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
1
out of
5
The Voice is a new translation of the Bible that takes the text and rewrites it as a story. The preface gives us the following: “The Voice retains the unique literary perspective of the human writers…The heart of the project is retelling the story of the Bible in a form as fluid as modern literary works, yet remaining painstakingly true to the original Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic texts.”
The name The Voice is what they have called Christ. They base it on the Greek word logos used in John 1 to name Christ. Unfortunately saying that the Greek work logos means voice is a bad translation. Why they would have translated logos as voice while trying to stay true to the original languages is baffling. When one does a comparison of the English words they use to translate the Greek they mistranslate or even worse they admit they add words they know are not in the original language. This completely undermines the interpretative process they claim to have used.
When looking at some of the authors/contributors you will see the name Brian McLaren, a leader in the emergent church movement. To put it plainly McLaren denies much of the Bible. He believes that we have the message of Christ wrong. This is one of the individuals who are part of the translating team of The Voice.
I understand that people want a translation of the Bible that is easy to read. We need to make sure that everyone can and does understand the Bible. What we have to be careful of is rewriting what the Bible originally says. Instead of changing the Bible under the guise of making it readable why did they not make a commentary explaining what the Bible actually says, unless that isn’t what they really wanted to do?
It is unfortunate that this translation was crafted. Its goal isn’t trying to give us a “fresh translation” (their words) of Scripture, it gives us a corrupted reading of God’s Holy Word.
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Review 9 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Step into the story of scripture
Date:March 19, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
The Voice is a translation of the Bible that is designed for conversation, study, and to a certain extent, a more modern perspective. Written with a "script" type format, it clearly shows where conversations are in the text, and it includes many study helps and details that support reading for understanding.
I found it to be well-researched and written in an easy to read language. It seems like a version that could supplement any Bible collection, and I anticipate using it often for my own research. The primary use I would use it for would be to disciple or encourage a new believer. I appreciated the notes on people, such as Pharisees and Sadducees that were included, and which certainly would be helpful to anyone trying to get a clearer understanding of the various groups represented in the Bible.
The one distraction to me was the column format. It made it impossible to read on my Kindle, and it was often challenging to determine where I was in the text. Some of the new terminology was also a distraction, such as using "First Testament" to refer to what is more commonly known as the "Old Testament". I also had some difficulty with italicized and asterisked passages, which also served more as a distraction than a help, even though I understood the reasons for the additions.
Overall, this would be a useful resource, but I don't know that I would use it as my everyday Bible (I like my ESV study Bible and my NIV too much to give them up). I would find it helpful when needing a new perspective and additional information, especially during sermon prep. I would certainly recommend it, especially to a newer believer.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. 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
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Review 10 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
An Artistic Translation
Date:March 5, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
I purchased this book before receiving an electronic review copy. I pre-ordered a copy of the The Voice Bible: Step Into The Story of Scripture on September 29, 2011. I am looking forward to receiving a copy of the completed translation in April of 2012.
I come to this translation with a mixed reaction. The translation is unique in that it is not only translating the words of scripture, but also a sense of the personalities found in the individual authors and speakers seen throughout scripture. How well this is accomplished needs to be addressed by scholars better trained in the original languages than I am.
Having said that, I have found the translation to be interesting and helpful in getting a grasp of purpose of each author. This was accomplished by relying on scholars who were familiar with the original language and scholars, artists, writers, and pastors who were familiar with the best forms of English as a communication medium. Together they have come up with a dynamic translation that communicates the content of the New Testament to our modern culture.
Though I have enjoyed reading this translation - I sometimes stumble over its presentation. Because of this, I would be fearful of using The Voice as my standard Bible. I would want to have a clearly written English translation at my side. At the same time, I enjoy having The Voice at my side as I read my standard translation.
As I wrote earlier, I am looking forward looking forward to having the complete Bible available later this Spring.
______________
This review is based on a copy of the book purchased for personal use. I also received a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
______________
This review is based on a copy of the book purchased for personal use. I also received a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
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Review 11 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
A fabulous treasure
Date:February 15, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
The Voice is an absolute treasure among the many versions of the Bible that are available. I truly believe that the translation is written in a manner that will illuminate God's word anew for countless readers, for I found myself able to understand passages in a deeper way. I do recommend that readers take the time to read the preface, which explains how the translation came to be and how the text is organized. Once you've done that, you will be ready to dive in.
Many features of The Voice are truly helpful. For example, the addition of words and phrases in Italic type that were added to help the reader better understand the text brought a lot more clarity to what I was reading. When I was trying to wrestle through a passage in the book of Galatians that was written in the NIV format, I then read the same passage in The Voice New Testament, and found that I could much more easily follow the message contained in the verses! The Voice especially shines in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, as well as in the book of Acts and the book of Revelation, for it is here that the screenplay format it used, and used surprisingly effectively. When I first read about this feature, I admit I was a bit skeptical. However, this format truly brought the passages alive in a new way, and I felt like I was there, on scene, witnessing the drama of Jesus' life for myself!
The Voice really must be experienced first hand to be appreciated for what it is, and I encourage you to get this wonderful version of the Bible for yourself or for a loved one or a friend who is seeking to deepen their relationship with Jesus.
I highly recommend The Voice and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
New Testament has been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson.
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Review 12 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Unique Bible experience
Date:February 15, 2012
Bible translation is a full space, with many different translations based on a variety of different philosophies.
Every Bible I’ve read falls somewhere on a continuum, between a word-by-word translation with a focus on literal accuracy and paraphrases that capture the flavor and flow of the Biblical narrative.
The Voice is a completely different Bible-reading experience.
As its name implies, this version is intended to be experienced as a read-aloud. The audio recording of The Voice’s Book of Revelation emphasizes the strengths of this artistic rendering of the gospel message.
However, I would not recommend it for daily study.
The Voice is a unique, artistic experience. Many sections are written in script form, with cues for various readers. Additionally, there are many additions in italics which are intended to add to the flow of the reading, but are distracting in print.
If you would like to experience the New Testament in a completely new and unique way, while reading it aloud, I give this version my highest recommendation.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my unbiased review.
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Review 13 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
New Testament Revised and Updated
Date:February 12, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Are you a new Christian ? Just starting out ? It's quite surprising really as many New Christians rather than buy a full bible tend to stick with discovering the New Testament first. With The Voice , a new and revised version with contributions throughout the Voice from your favourite and inspirational male christians like David Morgan, Joseph Dodson and Jack Wisdom. The Voice contains all 23 books of the New Testament from Matthew, Mark ,Luke and John right to Revelations. For those who are wanting to study the bible in a different context and at their own pace, The Voice contains a series of Different bible daily reading patterns which include Readings to celebrate Advent (lead up to Christmas) , Readings for Lent and Easter (round the rising of Jesus) , Read the New Testament in 24weeks and Daily readings for your own personal growth. Throughout "The Voice" also contains references to the verses and explanations e.g When Jesus fed the 5000 with only 5 loaves of bread ." The point, of course, is not that Jesus couldn’t have turned these stones to bread. A little later in the story He can make food appear when He needs to. But Jesus doesn’t work miracles out of the blue, for no reason, for show or proof or spectacle. He works them in intimate, close places; He works them to meet people’s needs and to show them the way to the Kingdom."
The VoiceTM Bible translation is a faithful dynamic translation of the Scriptures done as a collage of compelling narratives, poetry, song, truth, and wisdom. The Voice calls the reader to step into the whole story of Scripture and experience the joy and wonder of God's revelation. Created for and by a church in great transition, The Voice uniquely represents collaboration among scholars, pastors, writers, musicians, poets, and other artists, giving great attention to the beauty of the narrative. The heart of The Voice is retelling the story of the Bible in a form as fluid as modern literary works yet remaining painstakingly true to the original manuscripts. This translation promotes the public reading of longer sections of Scripture-followed by thoughtful engagement with the biblical narrative in its richness and fullness and dramatic flow.
The VoiceTM Bible translation is a faithful dynamic translation of the Scriptures done as a collage of compelling narratives, poetry, song, truth, and wisdom. The Voice calls the reader to step into the whole story of Scripture and experience the joy and wonder of God's revelation. Created for and by a church in great transition, The Voice uniquely represents collaboration among scholars, pastors, writers, musicians, poets, and other artists, giving great attention to the beauty of the narrative. The heart of The Voice is retelling the story of the Bible in a form as fluid as modern literary works yet remaining painstakingly true to the original manuscripts. This translation promotes the public reading of longer sections of Scripture-followed by thoughtful engagement with the biblical narrative in its richness and fullness and dramatic flow.
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Review 14 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
A Beautiful Translation of God's Word!
Date:February 5, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
A beautiful translation of God’s Word! This New Testament version is true and accurate and so beautiful to read. I read through Mark, Ephesians and Galatians. I found myself reading scripture like a “regular book” and loving it. There are sections in between scripture where a contributor has put a paragraph or so in to explain what you have just read (or given an opinion on what you have just read) in plain speak but not watered down. This version challenged me to dig deeper, to understand the context of what I was reading. Included are four daily reading plans: 1)Celebrate Advent 2)Lent and Easter 3)New Testament in 24 Weeks 4)Daily Readings for Personal Growth. Also included at the back of the Bible is a section called The Titles of Jesus. I highly recommend The Voice and I myself will be reading this version on a regular basis.
"New Testament has been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson".
Available at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson".
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Review 15 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Scripture in today's language
Date:January 10, 2012
Michelle
Location:Australia
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
The Voice New Testament (Revised and Updated)by Ecclesia Bible Society is relatively new. It is similar in some respect to The Message version as it reads like a story, yet from what I’ve read so far, The Voice has kept the power of other translations. The team of 27 bible scholars, 51 writers and 36 contributors have created a translation that is considered a “contextual equivalence” rather than a paraphrase. REad more ... http://t.co/pP3LWmvc
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Review 16 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Like the idea, dislike the format
Date:December 30, 2011
Sheila
Location:Indiana
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
2
out of
5
Value:
2
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
2
out of
5
The Voice New Testament is a dynamic equivalent translation that aims to read like a story. The text claims to try and retain the different voices of the original authors of the books of the New Testament, and I was excited to see how that was handled. Unfortunately, I felt like there wasn’t much of a noticeable difference in the writing style of the books I read (Luke, Mark, and Philippians).
There were some positives for me – I liked the reading plans included at the front of the book, especially the one for Advent which is often neglected. I also liked the topical guide. I liked the idea of having the text formatted like a script.
I do not like how, in an effort to avoid footnotes, the layout includes embedded notes and italicized additions to the text that ends up being distracting and annoying. I also have significant concerns over the italicized additions of material not in the original text. Despite the introductory claims that the italicized words contain information “that would have been obvious to those originally addressed” by the Scripture and are intended “to help the reader better understand the text,” I felt that the additions went way beyond those admirable goals.
My usual Bible translations are the ESV and NIV, but I regularly read other translations as a way to see concepts and ideas in a new light and was excited to add a new version to my collection. However, I didn’t like the distracting format, and especially didn’t like the italicized additions, which seemed to cross the line for me from translation to commentary in the middle of the text. I doubt that I will read it again and don’t recommend it.
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Review 17 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Know your translation
Date:December 28, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
The Voice translation is a translation that tries to fill a unique space in the variety of bible translations. The translators have sought to be faithful to the original language texts while trying to capture an elegance in the final English language.
On the whole the translation itself is good but where the voice stands out amongst other translations is more to do with the layout of the text. Dialogue is set out as a play which makes it ideal for public/dramatic readings. There are also plenty of helpful side notes and context notes within the text itself which helps the reader to really grasp the relevance of what they're reading.
In all in all, as for any bible translation it is important to understand how the translators approached the process but for The Voice, it is one that I will gladly read and use but it will not replace the translations I use for serious deep bible study.
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Review 18 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Just Okay
Date:December 12, 2011
Lisareadstoomuch
Location:Michigan
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
2
out of
5
I like to read different versions of the Bible, and have several of them, so I was interested in reading The Voice. I was intrigued by its description as being “a collage of compelling narratives, poetry, song, truth, and wisdom”. But I did not find much poetry or song. Much of it is written as a script, which is interesting, and the notes throughout are helpful. Overall, I think this translation is interesting to reead, but I would go a more standard translation for actual Bible study.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://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
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://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
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Review 19 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Is "The Voice" Thomas Nelson's cultural compromise
Date:December 3, 2011
Quality:
2
out of
5
Value:
2
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
1
out of
5
Fine lines are delicate things. They often are the slimmest of separation between two radically opposing sides.
With "The Voice New Testament," publisher Thomas Nelson is playing with a fine line of producing the latest contemporary translation of the New Testament, or compromising the accuracy of God's Word by elevating cultural influences in the translation process.
I'm not sure why Thomas Nelson, partnering with Ecclesia Bible Society, thought it necessary to produce yet another translation of the New Testament, but anytime a publisher takes on generating an actual translation of the Bible, the most essential element must be accuracy of translation from the original languages.
In producing a New Testament or complete Bible, accuracy is priority one.
I've had the opportunity to read "The Voice" --- reading it was my responsibility as a reviewer. I haven't had adequate time to do any type of comprehensive analysis of the accuracy of translation from the original languages. Nor have I had enough time to adequately compare and contrast "The Voice" with other translations. From my general reading, relying on general knowledge, there's much to like about the fluidity and clarity of the contemporary style of "The Voice," but there are multiple times where I question the choice of words or phrases and would have to rely on deeper study to draw thorough conclusions.
What is an immediate red flag for me is the purposeful inclusion of artists --- such as singers, musicians, song writers, and poets --- as contributors to the translation team. In order to have the most reliable translation possible, I want the the most gifted, skilled, capable scholars in the world doing the work of translating, not an artist!
So why were "artists" included as part of the translation team?
The first few pages of "The Voice" explain the translation method for this New Testament. The goal was not a word-for-word or even a dynamic equivalence translation, but what the publisher calls a hybrid of those two as a "contextual equivalence" version. To that end, artists were added to the translation team. Under the heading of "A Different Translation Process," this explanation is offered:
"'The Voice' Bible is a different sort of translation. It combines the relative strengths of scholars who are experts in the original languages (in the case of the New Testament, Greek) and modern writers, musicians, and poets who are skilled in their use of English, our target language."
The publisher does not offer a clear or more thorough explanation about the specific contributions made by artists on the team, or their degree of influence in the translation. That is something I definitely want to know. While I appreciate the gifts and skills of artists, having the scholarly aptitude to translate ancient documents into an accurate version of the New Testament is not among their gifts, skills, or experiences. I cannot believe that Bible scholars are so lacking in their knowledge of the English language that they need the guidance of a poet to put together what is both an accurate and readable translation. Furthermore, why would a Bible scholar need the skill of a musician in Bible translation?
In today's church, there are some churches that engage culture so they can proclaim the Gospel and reach people for Christ. Other churches have gone far beyond engaging culture to embracing it, with the result being culture having a greater influence on the church than the church on culture.
This cultural influence has been so strong among some of these churches that their written mission statements speak of culture, art, beauty, and social justice but little or nothing of the original mission of the church as given by Jesus Christ --- that of making disciples.
With it's modern "screenplay" format, "The Voice" may be Thomas Nelson's reflection of these churches that embrace culture by elevating artists and "creatives" to a new level of influence. But in this case, it's not simply within the church, but in the work of translating the Word of God.
I find that disturbing.
Let me clarify that my discomfort with the inclusion of artists on the translation team is not, in any way, a disdain of art or artists. I appreciate both. I'm a writer, I've had a youthful stint as a musician, I appreciate and enjoy the arts. But it makes as much sense to put truck drivers, cashiers, and school teachers on a Bible translation team as it does to add artists to one.
One of the most important responsibilities I have as an ordained minister is the accurate teaching of the Word of God. Until Thomas Nelson can provide a thorough reasoning as to why artists were part of its translation team, and clarify with great specificity what influence these artists had in the translation process, there is no way I could recommend "The Voice" with a clear conscience.
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.”
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Review 20 for The Voice New Testament, Revised and Updated
Overall Rating:
Reviewing Ancient Words in Context
Date:November 30, 2011
Diana Harkness
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
A wise teacher once told me, “All meaning is context dependent.” That concise 5-word sentence made all the difference in my future understand of all things printed.
What is context? Literally, con means with. Context is what runs with the words, envelopes the phrases, elongates the sentences. Context fills the political, social, economic, and historical background of the temporal structure. Context may describe the author’s background, thoughts, prejudices, or intent.
When I know the context, the text has meaning I might not derive from my own time, culture, and thoughts. This is especially true for foreign cultures and ancient times. And this is where authors can get into trouble.
Of the common types of literature, historical fiction, non-fiction, and speculative fiction all take advantage of context. The good historical fiction novel recreates the original background of the time. The speculative fiction novel creates a new world context. The non-fiction work must validate its theories with facts that provide a true context.
What happens if you remove the context? For non-fiction, words can then mean whatever you want them to or whatever the reader understands them to mean, which may be two or more completely different meanings. Watch the first section of this, the second part of the Oscar winning short film Why Man Creates and you will understand how the viewer or reader perceives the artistic creation or the written word. With little or no context, the viewer brings their own meaning to the artist’s work.
I found myself confronted with mixed contexts as I read a new translation/paraphrase of the Bible, specifically the New Testament. The Voice New Testament is a thought by thought translation of the New Testament with additions. What is added makes it different from many other translations.
First, and most useful is boxed text which provides context. These context boxes explain the culture or background behind the text. Whether explaining a custom, a tradition, a practice, or describing the geographic or historic significance, or even asking questions of the reader, these text boxes these add much to the reading. In only a few cases do they leave behind context for judgments that should have been omitted. Look for the words, “apparently,” “probably,” or “it is clear” and you will be able to stop reading at that point.
Next, and least useful are italicized words and phrases within the text that have been added for readability, clarification, or whim. I use the last term because some of these added words seen to be an attempt to add alliteration or other contemporary literary devices. While a new reader of the Bible might find the style engaging, as a long time Bible reader I frequently found these italicized words and phrases intrusive and distracting from the original text.
Maybe, this Bible wasn’t meant for me or other long-time readers. Although not quite a paraphrase, a paraphrase might better fit the purpose of this The Voice New Testament. Here is a good quote from The Voice New Testament followed by the same quote from the New International Version, then from The Message, a paraphrase by Eugene Peterson.
Matthew 11:28-30
Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Put my yoke upon your shoulders—it might appear heavy at first, but it is perfectly fitted to your curves. Learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble of heart. When you are yoked to Me, your weary souls will find rest. For My yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (The Voice)
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (NIV)
Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly. (The Message.)
As you can see, The Voice New Testament is more readable than the NIV, a straight translation, but not as readable as The Message which puts the entire passage in contemporary language, making it easier for the person who has never read a Bible. I believe The Voice New Testament could be confusing. I found myself wondering whether the writers had changed the meaning with their added words. I consulted two other translations and was satisfied that the translation of The Voice New Testament was reasonably accurate. However, with the added words it falls between a strict translation and a paraphrase. I recommend using a strict translation (NIV, NASB, ESV, NKJB, etc.) for study, and The Message paraphrase for easy reading. If you have already read The Message, by all means read The Voice New Testament for another easy read.
Finally, all direct dialogue in The Voice New Testament is presented in screenplay format, with the speaker’s name on the left and their words on the right. This manner of separating dialogue from the narrative helps emphasize the dialogue. I often find myself losing the spoken word in the narrative and I greatly appreciate this format. I would like all translations to use this method of differentiating narrative from dialogue.
To summarize, this is not a Bible for someone who wants a new translation; this is for the person who wants to casually sit and read the Bible. If you are opposed to reading a paraphrase like The Message, this is both readable and accurate enough for Bible Study, but like me, long time Bible scholars are going to set The Voice New Testament aside for a good study Bible or a straight translation.
I received The Voice New Testament free from the publisher for this review. 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.
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