What bible Translation Do Lutherans Use?

I’ve always been fascinated by the various translations of Scripture and how they shape our understanding of God’s Word. But did you know that different Christian denominations often have their preferred Bible translations?

Join me as we explore the rich tapestry of translations used by Lutherans, learn why they prefer certain versions, and uncover the fascinating historical and cultural factors that have shaped their choices.

1. A Brief Overview of Lutheranism

Lutheranism, a major branch of Protestant Christianity, boasts a rich history and a thriving present. Its roots trace back to the teachings of Martin Luther, a 16th-century German monk and theologian. His famous 95 Theses boldly challenged the Roman Catholic Church, laying the groundwork for the Protestant Reformation.

Luther’s teachings emphasized salvation by faith alone (sola fide), grace alone (sola gratia), and Scripture alone (sola scriptura). This set Lutheranism apart from the Roman Catholic Church and its practices.

Fast forward to today, Lutheranism has grown into one of the largest Christian denominations in the world, with millions of followers across the globe. It boasts a diverse range of traditions and practices, but one thing remains consistent – a deep love and reverence for the Bible.

One of the key events in Luther’s life was his translation of the Bible into German, making it accessible to the common people for the first time. Romans 1:17 became a cornerstone of his theology: “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’“

As we dig deeper into the world of Lutheran Bible translations, let’s keep in mind the importance of Scripture in the Lutheran tradition and how it shapes their faith and practice.

2. The Importance of Scripture in Lutheranism

As Bible lovers, we know that the Bible is central to Christianity, and that is especially true for Lutheranism! The Lutheran doctrine of sola scriptura (only Scripture) emphasizes the Bible as the sole authority for Christian faith and practice. This is why the question of which Bible translation is used by Lutherans is so important!

2.1. The Heart of Lutheran Beliefs – Scripture Alone

The Lutheran emphasis on the Bible is rooted in the belief that God’s Word is the ultimate source of truth and guidance. Sola scriptura underscores the idea that 2 Timothy 3:16 is at the heart of Lutheran theology: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.“

This strong foundation in Scripture shapes not only the theological beliefs but also the daily lives of Lutherans.

2.2. The Lutheran Tradition – Engaging with the Bible

Lutherans have a long tradition of engaging with the Bible, both in personal study and corporate worship. Bible studies, Sunday school classes, and sermons are all integral parts of the Lutheran faith experience, helping believers to grow in their knowledge and understanding of God’s Word.

Lutherans also value the practice of daily devotions, using Scripture as a way to connect with God and seek guidance for everyday life. Passages like Psalm 119:105 remind them of the vital role Scripture plays in their lives: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.“

2.3. Scripture in the Lutheran Liturgy

The importance of Scripture in Lutheranism is also evident in their liturgy. Lutheran worship services are designed to be centered around the Word of God, with readings from both the Old and New Testaments, as well as a sermon that connects the biblical text to the lives of the congregation.

In this way, Lutherans continually immerse themselves in Scripture, allowing the Word of God to inform and transform their faith and daily living.

3. The Lutheran Preference – The English Standard Version (ESV)

So, which translation do Lutherans use? Generally, Lutherans prefer the English Standard Version (ESV). The ESV is a modern translation that was first published in 2001. It is known for its accuracy, clarity, and literary excellence, making it a favorite choice for many Lutherans.

3.1. ESV – A Closer Look

The ESV seeks to provide an essentially literal translation of the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts. It combines word-for-word precision with readability, ensuring that the translation remains faithful to the original text while still being accessible to modern readers.

For example, let’s examine the well-known verse from the book of John:

• John 3:16 (ESV): “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.“

The ESV captures the beauty and power of this verse while maintaining its accuracy and clarity.

Let’s take a look at how John 3:16 is rendered in a few other popular Bible translations:

John 3:16 (KJV): “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

John 3:16 (NIV): “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

John 3:16 (NLT): “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”

John 3:16 (NASB): “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”

Each of these translations conveys the essential message of John 3:16, but they do so with slightly different language and phrasing.

3.2. The Lutheran Emphasis on Accuracy

For Lutherans, the accuracy of the ESV is particularly appealing because of their commitment to the doctrine of sola scriptura (only Scripture). By using a translation that closely adheres to the original text, Lutherans can be confident that their understanding of Scripture is grounded in a faithful rendering of God’s Word.

3.3. The ESV’s Literary Excellence

Another reason Lutherans love the ESV is its literary excellence. The ESV aims to preserve the beauty and majesty of the original biblical texts, resulting in a translation that is not only accurate but also a joy to read.

Consider this passage from the book of Psalms:

• Psalm 23:1-3 (ESV): “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.“

The ESV brings the poetry and imagery of this passage to life, making it an ideal choice for Lutherans who value both the accuracy and the literary quality of their Bible translation.

4. The Role of Martin Luther’s German Bible

While the ESV is the primary choice for many Lutherans today, it’s essential to acknowledge the historical significance of Martin Luther’s German Bible. Completed in 1534, this translation was a monumental achievement that made the Bible accessible to the German-speaking population for the first time.

Genesis 1:1 in Luther’s German Bible reads: “Am Anfang schuf Gott Himmel und Erde.” (“In the beginning God created heaven and earth.”). This translation opened the door for countless people to engage with Scripture for the first time and develop their faith.

Martin Luther’s German Bible played a vital role in shaping the German language and inspired other translations, like the famous King James Version (KJV). In fact, the KJV translators were heavily influenced by Luther’s work, as evident in their rendering of Romans 3:28: “For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.“

Even though not used as the primary translation today, Luther’s Bible remains an essential part of Lutheran heritage. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of making Scripture accessible to everyone, regardless of language or background.

The influence of Martin Luther’s German Bible can still be felt today in the liturgy, hymns, and theological writings of the Lutheran Church. His translation continues to inspire Christians around the world to engage with the Bible and discover the transformative power of God’s Word.

5. Other Translations Used by Lutherans

Although the ESV is the preferred choice for many Lutherans, it’s not the only translation they use. In fact, Lutherans have a rich tapestry of Bible translations to choose from, depending on personal preference and the specific needs of the congregation. Let’s take a closer look at some of these other translations that you might find in Lutheran congregations:

5.1. New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

The New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) is a popular choice among Lutherans, especially for its readability and commitment to gender-inclusive language. This translation, first published in 1989, is a revision of the Revised Standard Version (RSV) and is widely respected for its accuracy and balance between formal and dynamic equivalence.

For instance, consider this passage from the book of Isaiah:

• Isaiah 40:31 (NRSV): “but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.“
• Isaiah 40:31 (NIV): “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

In this example, we can see subtle differences in phrasing and word choice between the two translations. The NRSV uses “wait for” while the NIV uses “hope in” slightly changing the emphasis in the verse. Also, the NIV uses more concise and active language, such as “soar on wings” instead of “mount up with wings.” These variations can offer fresh perspectives and insights into the meaning of the passage.

5.2. New American Standard Bible (NASB)

The New American Standard Bible (NASB) is another translation that some Lutherans turn to. Known for its dedication to formal equivalence, the NASB is considered one of the most literal translations available, making it an excellent choice for in-depth Bible study.

Take a look at this passage from the Gospel of John:

• John 3:16 (NASB): “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.“
• Psalm 23:4 (NIV): “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.“

As you can see, the NASB’s commitment to formal equivalence results in a more literal rendering of the original Hebrew text, using the phrase “valley of the shadow of death” whereas the NIV opts for a more dynamic equivalence approach with the phrase “darkest valley.” The choice of translation can impact the tone and imagery of the verse, offering different perspectives on the same passage.

5.3. New King James Version (NKJV)

For those who appreciate the beauty and poetry of the King James Version but seek a more contemporary language, the New King James Version (NKJV) is an ideal choice. First published in 1982, the NKJV retains the literary style of the KJV while updating archaic language to make it more accessible to modern readers.

Let’s take a look at an example to see how the same passage differs between the KJV and the NKJV:

Psalm 23:1-3 (KJV): “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.“

Psalm 23:1-3 (NKJV): “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.“

While the overall meaning and structure of the passage remain the same in both versions, the NKJV updates some of the archaic language, such as replacing “maketh” with “makes” and “leadeth” with “leads.” These subtle changes make the passage more accessible to contemporary readers without sacrificing the poetic beauty of the original KJV text.

5.4. King James Version (KJV)

While some may find its language archaic, the King James Version (KJV) still holds a special place in the hearts of many Lutherans. Its poetic beauty and historical significance make it a beloved translation for personal study, prayer, and devotional use.

Take, for example, this passage from Romans 8:

Romans 8:28 (KJV): “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Now, let’s compare it to the same passage in the English Standard Version (ESV):

Romans 8:28 (ESV): “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

In this instance, there are some noticeable differences between the KJV and ESV translations. The KJV uses a more complex sentence structure, while the ESV presents the same idea in a more straightforward manner. This can make the ESV easier to understand for contemporary readers, while the KJV might be appreciated for its poetic and historical value.

6. The Beauty of Diversity – Embracing Different Translations

We’ve established that the ESV is the top choice for many Lutherans, but it’s essential to remember that the beauty of Christianity lies in its diversity. Different translations can offer fresh perspectives and insights into Scripture, helping us grow in our faith and understanding.

6.1. Delving Deeper – Comparing Translations for Enhanced Understanding

Comparing translations can be a fantastic way to delve deeper into the Word of God. For instance, let’s examine another passage from the Bible:

• Psalm 23:1 (ESV): “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.“
• Psalm 23:1 (NIV): “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.“

While both translations convey the same message, subtle differences in phrasing can evoke different emotions and highlight various aspects of the text.

6.2. Discovering the Nuances – Appreciating the Art of Translation

Translating the Bible is an art, and each translation brings forth its unique flavor and nuances. Embracing different translations can help us appreciate the richness and diversity of the biblical text. For example:

• Proverbs 3:5 (ESV): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.“
• Proverbs 3:5 (NLT): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.“

These slight variations in language can offer fresh insights and help us engage with Scripture in new and meaningful ways.

6.3. A Word of Caution – Avoiding Division

While exploring different translations can be beneficial, it’s crucial to avoid division and conflict within the Christian community. The Bible teaches us in 1 Corinthians 1:10 to “agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.“

7. Translations for Children and Youth – Engaging the Next Generation

Involving the next generation of Lutherans in Scripture is essential, and that includes finding translations that speak to them. For children and youth, more contemporary translations like the New International Version (NIV) or the New Living Translation (NLT) can be excellent choices.

7.1. The Importance of Age-Appropriate Translations

Using age-appropriate translations can help young people connect more easily with the Word of God. Clear and relatable language can foster a love for Scripture and encourage children and youth to develop their faith.

Proverbs 22:6 reminds us: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” By choosing translations that resonate with young hearts, we can pave the way for a lifelong relationship with the Bible.

7.2. The Role of Paraphrased Translations

Paraphrased translations like The Message can be an engaging introduction to the Bible for younger audiences. While they sacrifice some accuracy for the sake of readability, they can still be valuable tools for teaching biblical stories and principles in a way that resonates with young minds.

For instance, John 3:16 in The Message reads: “This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.” This paraphrase makes the verse more accessible to younger readers, helping them grasp the depth of God’s love.

7.3. Illustrated Bibles and Storybooks for Children

For very young children, illustrated Bibles and Bible storybooks can be a fantastic way to introduce them to Scripture. These resources often use simplified language and engaging illustrations to bring Bible stories to life. A popular example is The Beginner’s Bible.

7.4. Encouraging Youth to Explore Different Translations

As children grow older and become more comfortable with reading, encourage them to explore different translations. This exposure can help them gain a deeper understanding of Scripture and appreciate the unique qualities of each translation.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” By guiding children and youth in their exploration of Scripture, we can help them become well-rounded followers of Christ.

8. Online Resources and Tools for Exploring Bible Translations

In today’s digital age, there are a plethora of online resources and tools available to help you explore different Bible translations. From websites offering side-by-side comparisons of translations to mobile apps that allow you to carry multiple translations with you wherever you go, there’s never been a better time to be a Bible enthusiast!

8.1. Websites for Comparing Translations

There are several websites that allow you to compare multiple Bible translations side by side. These tools can be incredibly helpful for understanding the nuances between translations and identifying the one that resonates most with you.

One popular resource is the Bible Gateway, which offers access to numerous translations and even provides audio versions of many popular translations. You can easily switch between translations while reading a passage, making it easy to compare and contrast the differences.

Another excellent website for comparing translations is Blue Letter Bible. This resource offers access to a wealth of study tools, including commentaries, lexicons, and interlinear Bibles, in addition to multiple translations.

8.2. Mobile Apps for On-the-Go Bible Study

If you’re always on the move, mobile apps are a great way to explore different translations and engage with Scripture anytime, anywhere.

Many apps, like YouVersion, offer a wide selection of translations, as well as study tools, devotionals, and reading plans to help you deepen your relationship with God. You can even customize your experience by highlighting verses, adding notes, and creating verse images to share with friends and family.

Another fantastic app is Olive Tree, which offers a vast library of translations, commentaries, and other resources. This powerful app allows you to sync your notes and highlights across devices, ensuring you always have access to your favorite Bible translations and study materials.

For those who enjoy listening to Scripture, consider the Bible.is app. This app offers dramatized audio Bibles in various translations, bringing the Word of God to life through engaging storytelling and sound design.

9. In Conclusion – The Lutheran Love

Lutherans generally prefer the English Standard Version (ESV) for its accuracy and fidelity to the original text. However, they also appreciate and use other translations like the NRSV, NASB, NKJV, and KJV, which offer unique perspectives on Scripture.

Remember that your personal relationship with Scripture is what truly matters. Whether you prefer the ESV, KJV, or any other translation, the power of the Word of God remains unchanged.