Of the many Bible translations available today, are some better than others? If so, what criteria can we use to determine what makes a good translation? Leland Ryken introduces readers to the central issues in this debate and presents several reasons why essentially literal—word-for-word—translations are superior to dynamic equivalent—thought-for-thought—translations.

You don’t have to be a Bible scholar to recognize the need for a quality Bible translation. We all want to know that the Bible we read, study, and memorize is faithful to the original. Dr. Ryken tackles this issue and breaks it down in this concise, logical, and straightforward book, giving readers a valuable tool for selecting a Bible translation.

“Professor Ryken draws on decades of experience… to show that many modern English translations fail to meet accepted standards of excellence in accuracy, faithfulness to the words of the author, clarity, vividness, correctness….” —Dr. Wayne Grudem, Professor of Bible and Theology, Phoenix Seminary

“The persistent, detonating logic of Lee Ryken’s pen will educate and convince any fair-minded person that the primary Bible for study and preaching must be an essentially literal translation.” —Dr. R. Kent Hughes, Pastor, College Church, Wheaton, IL

“A masterful and convincing argument for literal, that is to say, transparent translation of the Holy Scriptures.” —Dr. J. I. Packer, Professor of Theology, Regent College, Vancouver, B.C.

“An ideal guide to choosing a translation of the Word that transcends trendy words. In the process, he implicitly indicts those who settle for less.” —Marvin Olasky, Editor-in-Chief, World Magazine

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About the Author: Leland Ryken (Ph.D., University of Oregon) is Professor of English at Wheaton College. He has authored or edited several books, including The Word of God in English, The Dictionary of Biblical Imagery, and The Complete Literary Guide to the Bible. He is a frequent speaker at the Evangelical Theological Society and served as literary stylist for The Holy Bible, English Standard Version.

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