Worship turns out to be the dangerous act of waking up to God and to the purposes of God in the world, and then living lives that actually show it. But use it with caution: It is, by design, a very free paraphrase. Looking back to past success can be very dangerous to our progress, and might hinder us from living out a life that grows more abundant with each coming day. 26 Comments It wasnt too long ago that we were stuck in this stagnant life of sin, but thankfully, God has given us a new life through Jesus Christ. Even the most liberal seminary would fail a student who turned in an essay full of Message quotes (at least I hope they would). Remove unnecessary links, images, and attachments. 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. 6. 12 And forgive us our debts, The Samaritans, however, believed that their temple, on Mount Gerizim, was where true worship . Perhaps you can give me a link to read it? I dont need a thing. I had to sit through two church services tailored to support the churchs use of The Message. I hope this list has been helpful and will steer you in the right direction as to which Bible translations are profitable for training you up in righteousness. Samaritans and Jews also disagreed over their holy sites. He has spent time on both the far Left and Far Right side of the political spectrum and lives in Canada. A historic first: Vietnam allows Franklin Graham to hold evangelism event with 300 churches, Teen who had breasts removed says health system lacks 'standards of care', School district rejects student-teachers from Arizona Christian University, Its smut: Kid reads sexually graphic book he got from school library to school board members, Ukraine war exposes weaknesses in Russia and the West, ChatGPT, consciousness and the human mind, Saving a Sick America: A Prescription for Moral and Cultural Transformation, Eugene Peterson and Jesus Cannot Both Be Right, Eugene Peterson Retracts Support for Gay Marriage, Says He Was 'Put on the Spot', Vicky Beeching on Eugene Peterson Controversy: 'American Christians' Opposition to LGBT Equality Tied to Money', U2's Bono Teams Up With Pastor Eugene Peterson to Release Documentary on the Psalms. Look for Part 2 of this article, where we will review the top 5 Bible translations to use. Gmail's spam filters can pick up on grammar and spelling mistakes. Amen. The second most dangerous way to read the Bible is to let someone create preconceived notions for you. In this section of the sermon, Jesus uses the example of wildflowers to illustrate how God provides for all creatures. Regarded as sacred and authoritative, such a complex collection of histories, legends, allegories and images becomes a monstrous Rorschach blot in which you can picture almost . Danger #2 "False guilt". However, with a number of passages warning of the erosion of faith in the last days, theres a rather strong motive to contend for the faith by insisting on an accurate Bible (Jude 3). He translated from the original languages. Compare Micah 3:5 in the MESSage bible to the King James Bible and others. We no longer need to be slaves to the ways of this world; instead, we can walk according to Gods will and purpose for our lives. Therefore, readers put a great deal more faith in the translators, as they are trusting their interpretation. 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. 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 men who spied out Canaan had returned to Israel's camp and reported that the Promised Land had giants. It's a book of faith, written over four centuries by people with very different viewpoints and agendas. (23 October 2018). It is specifically targeted toward U.S. English speakers with its use of American contemporary slang. The Message is generally avoided but there is no hard and fast rule. This phrase is used to describe someone who is wicked and deceitful, as snakes are often seen as symbols of evil in the Bible. Verse Concepts. Therefore My people go into exile for their lack of knowledge; However, he has noticed that some portions of The Message cannot be linked to anything in the Greek text, indicating that additional meaning was added. Authored by Eugene H. Peterson and published in segments from 1993 to 2002, [2] the MSG falls on the extreme dynamic end of the dynamic and formal equivalence spectrum. your rod and your staff, 41,316 Views. I got some belated support and encouragement. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God bless. Many believers enjoy reading The Message because of its modern appeal; however, it is important to recognize . For instance, the English Standard Version, a word for word literal translation puts the Lords Prayer, from Matthew 6 as: Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others. Thats why the bible says were should study to show ourselves approved. That is where true salvation begins. I read your article, with interest. And not a great church to go to if salvation is paramount. Yes. One person stormed up to me and demanded that I send her no more emails. So, if the Bible is the Word of God, and God is perfect, it follows that the Bible must be perfect, too. Hostility to it is hostility to the. 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. 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. makes me feel secure. Taking away and adding to ie Going to the casino is a sin. Good people are going to perish. And there were other translation before the KJ Bible. I would sit alone on a sofa with no one ready to converse with me. He has found that The Message often adds meaning to passages that are not present in the original Greek text. This was the only Bible they could get. Clean Up Your Email. for his names sake. Your email address will not be published. Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email. 1Cor. will inherit the kingdom of God. 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. When it comes to 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, The Messageis not clear at all, but I don't think it's because Dr. Peterson was trying to water down the two Greek terms used for homosexual practice. People dont see the name of the book. The result is a strongly sectarian translation that no longer counts as Scripture; by masquerading as a Bible it threatens to bind entire churches in thrall to a false god. The Passion Translation is even promoted by churches that share Simmons own theology (for example removing rebuking and correcting from 2 Timothy 4:2). Yes. Speak the Truth in Love. 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. With verse markings (The Message: The Numbered Edition): This page was last edited on 2 March 2023, at 03:21. The Message communicates their lack of sincerity, but it loses the message of God's coming wrath. I gave the leaders and some church members paper copies of this resource. Yes. I read through your points and paused when I came to your 2nd point bottom of the 2nd paragraph you say that Eugene Peterson did not speak about Gods attributes when saying there is nothing in there speaking about any of Gods attributes at the end to the prayer. If you look up NIV Matt. When bestows glory on anything, its beautiful. Indeed, a day of judgment is coming (2:12-22, 24:1-23), so let all the nations of the earth take heed. I remember complaining that if the church hall was hired for a function, as it often was, a member of the local community could come in, pick up the copy of The Message from the bookshelf and read a false gospel in it. I Queen Elizabeth II: A Role Model For Humanity, The Dangers of the Pan-sexual Agenda Part 1: What is Pan-sexuality. 4:29) The Mess routinely speaks "corrupt communication" with some curse words in its pages.This is just one example.. I have enjoyed listening to Peter Hobbs reading message audio on youtube. 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 . 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. [5] The work was awarded the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association Gold Medallion in 2003 for being the title retailers prized.[6][7]. Unjust people who don't care about God will not be joining in his kingdom. The Message promotes the mystical New Age message with a boldness never seen in a mainstream Bible. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error. This displays The Messageat its worst, and it's another reminder as to why we should never use it as our primary Bible. One academic I read said it this way, Peterson has confused the mission of a Bible translator with the mission of the Holy Spirit., Absolutely my spirit not going well with it n yes. However, Taylor does not follow the typical biblical translation process of using the original language manuscripts to create his translation. 7 Signs of True Salvation Isaiah lived this name well, insisting that Judah's kings and people trust only in God, make no alliances with foreign nations, and refuse to fear anyone but God. Keep us alive with three square meals. The scene in Oslo after Christian terrorist, Anders Breivik, struck. "[4], The Message was translated by Peterson from the original languages. Some do know the truth but you will only know that by discovering it yourself. Further the Message adds to the text (something forbidden by scripture) there is nothing in there speaking about any of Gods attributes at the end to the prayer, and I have no idea where he got that Yes. 9 "This, then, is how you should pray: 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). Talking to the Dead in the Bible. One such critic is biblical scholar and translator, Andrew G. Shead, who said in his article, Burning Scripture with Passion: A Review of The Psalms (The Passion Translation), that Simmons abandons all interest in textual accuracy, playing fast and loose with the original languages, and inserting so much new material into the text that it is at least 50% longer than the original. Updated Jan 9, 2023. Your kingdom come, He helps me do what honors him the most. Does this post violate any norms, rules, or others that you aware of? Youre ablaze in beauty! One implies that the one being delivered is actually out there engaging the enemy (the devil), while the other gives more of a picture of holing up away from other people and not bothering to engage. 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! (To get more detail on The Living Bible, see Michael Marlowes detailed review here on bible-researcher.com). Theological Reasons. English Standard Version (ESV): And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. Your worldview is different. Required fields are marked *. The Bible Is Dangerous, Inaccurate, And Written By Man The Bible is the most accurate historical book on planet earth. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being My priest. Word-for-word is a more literal translation of the original language used and puts more of the onus on the reader to discover the intended meaning of the author. The New International Firstly, ALL Bibles such as NKJV, NIV etc are paraphrasing. The Bible warns against personal interpretations of Scripture (2 Peter 1:20). Surely Peterson should do the same. In addition, Matthew 6:20 speaks of the lamp of the body being the eye. Your email address will not be published. Did the Bible copy other religious myths, legends, and traditions? Your trusty shepherds crook 9 Pray along these lines: Our Father in heaven, we honor your holy name. Features [ edit] 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. The Old Testament teaches that believers are defiled by their attempts at communicating with the dead, a practice that is detestable to God. The movie, which came out in the U.K. on March 16, tells the story of Mary Magdalene (Rooney Mara), detailing her fraught existence in Magdala as a single woman determined not to marry, before she. Complaining isn't harmless sport; it's serious sin. Pastors should not be encouraging people to us such a book, since it fills peoples heads with error. Youre in charge! 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. Would love to hear more. The Message loses the idea of an evil demonic power in these verses. King James translated the Bible so that it would be relevant for the time that he lived in, to bring in more people into the faith, and to oppress others, namely the Puritans, who didnt adhere to the practices of Christianity. He is asking them who directed them to flee from the wrath that is coming. There was no malice in eating and therefore not offensive. 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. Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible, extols the Word of God. Excellent observations on The Message. First, the Bible is dangerous to ignore. He guides me along the right paths I reached the conclusion that it was very bad and going to deceive a lot more people. 2. The Message has sold over 10 million copies and has continually ranked among the top five best-selling Bibles. . A book through which God speaks. This is the main message of the entire Bible, Old and New Testament, that those who have repented and trusted in Christ "have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord. I would challenge you not to believe what I say but to look it up for yourself. Isaiah was born in 760 B.C. English Standard Version (ESV): preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. And the word "abhorrent" is as good a rendering of the Hebrew as is "abomination. I just read your comments on the message bible and I agree that it is dangerous for Christians who are not seasoned in the word. People come to God on their own terms, and if the Message helps them get to him, then its done its job. Some people explode when they cannot have it. He is further identified as the son of Amoz (Isaiah 1:1). I know the author of it got parts of the Bible so right it blows your mind, but there are entire sections where he is dead wrong and injects false doctrine into it. This raises questions about how accurately The Message reflects the original intent of Scripture. For instance, the English Standard Version, a word for word literal translation puts the Lord's Prayer, from Matthew 6 as: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Taylors lack of understanding of Hebrew and Greek and absent use of the original manuscripts has led to disingenuous passages and verses such as his translation of John 12:15. Peterson's Approach Yields a Commentary. Because Eternity Matters Most. I also showed church leaders other occult words in The Message such as Light-bearers and Divine Guardians. same sex, homosexuality, trey pearson, everyday sunday, christian rock, love is love, back to school, anxiety, fear, college, worry, peace, Burning Scripture with Passion: A Review of The Psalms (The Passion Translation). Instead, they must be kind and gentle and not love money. However, by itself, the Bible is not reliable as a single historical source. 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. You are wondering about the question why the message bible is dangerous but currently there is no answer, so let kienthuctudonghoa.com summarize and list the top articles with the question. Peterson's assertion that the New Testament was written in the "street language" of the day is misleading. You cannot say that just because divination is used in human sacrifice, it is evil. Throughout history, power has influenced a lot of good . I was very surprised to find significant meanings. It confirms science, reveals the Messiah, and proves that it is supernatural in origin. Required fields are marked *. An overwhelming number of these translations suffer from the strong bias of an unfaithful group of translators. To be fair, a more accurate comparison might be to the Jehovas Lets all be careful and remember William Tyndale who first translated the bible to English but encountered fierce opposition and was killed(burnt at stake) but his work has a very large impact on the King James Version (the most accepted version of the bible) At one point, I emailed as many people in the church whose email addresses I could find, showing the problems with the book. You can do anything you want! Im not afraid We have to read them for what they say, not for what we want them to say. To them, the Bible is the world's most dangerous book. 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. Blessings my brothers n sisters stay in prayer n God Bless you all. Biblical scholars can do real spiritual harm by casually dismissing the texts that students hold dear. but deliver us from the evil one.'". 5) Contemporary English Version (CEV) - This translation is another work by the American Bible Society, commonly referred to as the Bible for Today's Family. He commanded them to remember his grace in Deuteronomy. Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others. English Standard Version (ESV): Simon Peter replied, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered him, Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! 1. hallowed be your name, 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. 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. Where is Sunday on the calender? 13 And lead us not into temptation, Not the way man tryed n break it down not like this Former Pastor: If there is a God, does he even make a difference? 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. Message Bible is completely an offline bible without requiring internet connection to study the scriptures. 2-3 He lets me rest in the meadow grass and leads me beside the quiet streams. (For the record, Paul was not saying here that homosexual couples are incapable of love or that all homosexuals are sex fiends. Authored by Eugene H. Peterson and published in segments from 1993 to 2002. A word-for-word translation like the ESV translates this as Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkeys colt!, The Living Bible translates this as, Dont be afraid of your King, people of Israel, for he will come to you meekly, sitting on a donkeys colt! Taylors use of dont be afraid is evidence that he does not realize that the common Hebrew expression of fear not means to have confidence.. Help keep The Christian Post free for everyone by making a one-time donation today. 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. .". 2) The Passion Translation (TPT) - This is another paraphrase translation like The Message. 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. Related articles What Must Someone Believe in Order to Be Saved? Are you relying on the Holy Spirit to guide your understanding? ", 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. The Message translation adds an extra layer of meaning by suggesting that having a generous eye is a way of showing respect for Gods truth. Keep pressing into the Lord! You are really understanding mans word, not Gods by using this commentary/paraphrase. Christians should only evolve to be more in line with His word. 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.". The message of the book of Isaiah to the world begins with warning. Jesus promises his disciples a reward in heaven for being persecuted and falsely accused in his name. Do what's best 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. Translation Comparison - Matthew 16:16-18, Good News Translation (GNT): Simon Peter answered, You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.. https://www.ebay.com/itm/115037693742 I was appalled and immediately went home and read A LOT . If the Bible is the truth, then ignoring it is ignoring the truth. 5. 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. The Message is obviously not a Bible translation, or even a terribly good paraphrase. We run to God to understand who he is n to lead us n trust in his word Bible translations are usually broken down into three major categories: Word-for-word or Formal Equivalence, Thought-for-Thought or Dynamic Equivalence, and Paraphrase. I think we judge too harshly. 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. When I first began to object due to the occult phrases and New Age terminology of The Message, in addition to its distortions of scripture my concerns were discussed with the church minister behind closed doors. Okay to get to the point, desire for the truth even if it means finding out everything you ever thought to be true was not, and you will, then asking Yahweh (God) to unblind you and guide you to the truth as you search for it and for protection from satanic deception so you wont be deceived. Today we have a different minister and new faces among the leadership. They attempt to validate their erroneous theological claims by editing the Bible as they see fit. The Bible admonishes us to, "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth. I reminded the church that Jesus said if we love him, we will obey his commands (John 14:23). Unjust people who don't care about God will not be joining in his kingdom. The following translations listed below should be avoided altogether, as utilizing them can lead to grave theological errors, the teaching of a radically different gospel, and a counterfeit Jesus. Share your favorite bible verse with your friends. Those who gossip & slander are not in right fellowship with God (Rom. Copies of it appeared on the bookshelf as people chucked it in. Apparently, she told the minister that she couldnt see why it mattered that Eugene Peterson changed Gods words. But whatever it is, it STILL shouldnt be twisting scripture. Jonathan Kotyk Those who use and abuse each other, use and abuse sex, use and abuse the earth and everything in it, don't qualify as citizens in God's kingdom. English Standard Version (ESV): Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Worship, then, refers to something very big and. you let me catch my breath August 23, 2017 The Message (MSG): Don't you realize that this is not the way to live? The shepherds and leaders are deceived. They must be self-controlled, sensible, well-behaved, friendly to strangers, and able to teach. On the two occasions when I have since heard it used, the speakers havent disclosed the name of the book they are reading from. Remember, Noah built the Ark, scholars built the Titanic. Photo Credit: Unsplash/Tom Morel Read more That's not to say that the Bible contains no truths worthy of study. The Message: The Bible in Contemporary Language (MSG) is a paraphrase of the Bible in contemporary English. Peterson inserts his own dogma . It is a potential danger even for those who avoid its more obvious . Jonathan, I definitely agree with your take here. Hoping it will appear in Google listings in time. The purpose of the Bible What is it? Here are five countries where owning a Bible is dangerous. May your will be done here on earth, just as it is in heaven. The simplicity of the English used in this translation has made it a popular choice for evangelists; it was even used at Billy Graham crusades. Solomon's example can teach us a lesson about how dangerous compromise with God's law can be. HE speaks of things to steer clear of because they will more likely than not lead you to sin. The Passion Translation (TPT): proclaim the Word of God and stand upon it no matter what! " MARGARET FEINBERG, AUTHOR OF FIGHT BACK WITH JOY "The Message is original and refreshing. 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. He introduced himself as a God of grace in Genesis. This mans interpretation is not always correct, nor is it always what the Spirit wants YOU to get from it. He instead uses the 1901 American Standard Version as his foundation. The ESV reads: "You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination. Here are a few really good reasons to be a little bit less confident in your ability to see the clear, intended meaning when you read the Bible: 1. The King James Version 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. We can get a glimpse of the strengths and weaknesses of The Message by . 1:28-32). The gospel addresses all of life, both this life and the one to come. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 1) The Message (MSG) - This translation is a paraphrase by Eugene Peterson. It is a popular book to use in liberal churches that are more focused on creating social change than on Jesus Christ, His saving act on the cross and His resurrection from the dead. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church? Ken is currently working on a Bible app (Wave Parallel Bible) with a team of scholars which links words and phrases from nine major Bible translations, including The Message. Thats my journey at the moment and I am trusting My Lord to guide me, not man! People are not running from the word of God or Jesus, but the judgement and hatefulness of some Christians. 13 Dont bring us into temptation, but deliver us from the Evil One. So every version that we read from is a translated interpretation. He did not say Peterson did not speak Gods Attributes in his rendition of Lords Prayer, he said the original text did not so there-for Peterson should not have added it to the prayer. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. Petersons lax handling of the Word of God results in stifled messages that are far less impactful than the original God-breathed directive. When studying the Word of God, one needs an authentic representation of the original autographs (the original manuscript of each of the 66 books of the Bible) while avoiding sources that would distort the original message from God. Some new Bibles are dangerous because of the theological bias of their translators. 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.