Lesson 2 | Expansion
Using Translations
While the variety of Bible versions available can sometimes feel overwhelming, it also offers a great opportunity to expand upon the details of a passage. One way to leverage this is to carefully compare a handful of sound translations. Doing so can refine our observations, stir new questions, and inspire vivid description in our paraphrase.
The following example from Galatians 3:1-5 showcases a spectrum of Bible translation approaches—from formal equivalence on the left, to functional equivalence in the middle, and finally the full paraphrase of Eugene Peterson's The Message on the right.
Read through the various translations, observing different approaches to specific words and phrases. Note that both differences and similarities are highlighted.
Did you notice...
- v. 1 – publicly (NASB, ESV) = vividly, clearly (NET, NIV, MSG).
- v. 2 – There is a slightly stronger emphasis on both hearing and faith in NASB, ESV
- vv. 2, 5 – All versions except the Message keep the phrase “works of the law” intact.
- v. 3 – perfected (NASB, ESV) = finish (NET, NIV)
- v. 4 – The MSG helpfully unpacks the second part of Paul’s question, “if indeed…” by emphasizing the potential total loss.
- v. 5 – MSG shifts the connection “by...” to “because…”
Know What You’re Reading
The reason we label the paraphrasing column “MINE” is to communicate the very point John Piper expounds upon in this video. It is not wrong to restate Scripture in your own words, as long as it is clear they are your words. This allows you to be wrong, adjust, and grow in your paraphrase.