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NOTE REGARDING "THE BIBLE" AND THE 3 BIBLE VERSIONS USED HERE: The original Hebrew and Greek texts are what actually constitute "the Bible." All other versions, whether in English or in Chinese or in Aramaic, whether produced in 384 A.D. or in 1611 A.D. or in 1996 A.D., are merely translations indirectly derived from those original Hebrew and Greek texts. The BibleTexts Online Bible Commentary at http://www.bibletexts.com/bt.htm provides verse-by-verse textual corrections that are based upon the most current knowledge of those original Hebrew and Greek texts. Most of those corrections are relevant only to the KJV, because most modern versions such as the NRSV and the TEV were translated from Hebrew and Greek texts that are much more consistent with "the original texts" than those Hebrew and Greek texts from which the 1611 KJV was translated. In the KJV most of the substantive errors are due to the faulty Hebrew and Greek texts from which the KJV was translated. (See S&H 139:15.) For more details on these issues, you can browse http://www.bibletexts.com/kjv-tr.htm.

Wherever there are substantial differences between the wording of the KJV and the NRSV, the NRSV should be considered as more accurately representing the wording of the original texts. Of the three English language Bible versions used below (the KJV, the NRSV, and the TEV), the NRSV gives the best word-for-word representation of the wording of original texts, and the TEV gives the best phrase-by-phrase representation of the originally intended meaning of original texts.

KJV - 15 Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.

NRSV - 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

TEV - "Help for Fellow Christians" - 13 And because of the proof which this service of yours brings, many will give glory to God for your loyalty to the gospel of Christ, which you profess, and for your generosity in sharing with them and everyone else. 14 And so with deep affection they will pray for you because of the extraordinary grace God has shown you. 15 Let us thank God for his priceless gift!

KJV - 44 Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me.

NRSV - 44 Then Jesus cried aloud: "Whoever believes in me believes not in me but in him who sent me.

TEV - "Judgment by Jesus' Words" - 44 Jesus said in a loud voice, "Whoever believes in me believes not only in me but also in him who sent me. 45 Whoever sees me sees also him who sent me. 46 I have come into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me should not remain in the darkness. 47 If anyone hears my message and does not obey it, I will not judge him. I came, not to judge the world, but to save it. 48 Whoever rejects me and does not accept my message has one who will judge him. The words I have spoken will be his judge on the last day! 49 This is true, because I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has commanded me what I must say and speak. 50 And I know that his command brings eternal life. What I say, then, is what the Father has told me to say."

KJV - 12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

15 If ye love me, keep my commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. 18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.

25 These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. 26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

29 And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.

NRSV - 12 Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father.

15 "If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. 17 This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and he will be in you. 18 "I will not leave you orphaned; I am coming to you.

25 "I have said these things to you while I am still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you.

29 And now I have told you this before it occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe.

TEV - "Jesus the Way to the Father" - 9 Jesus answered, "For a long time I have been with you all; yet you do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. Why, then, do you say, "Show us the Father'? 10 Do you not believe, Philip, that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I have spoken to you," Jesus said to his disciples, "do not come from me. The Father, who remains in me, does his own work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me. If not, believe because of the things I do. 12 I am telling you the truth: whoever believes in me will do what I do -- yes, he will do even greater things, because I am going to the Father.

"The Promise of the Holy Spirit" - 15 "If you love me, you will obey my commandments. 16 I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, who will stay with you forever. 17 He is the Spirit, who reveals the truth about God. The world cannot receive him, because it cannot see him or know him. But you know him, because he remains with you and is in you. 18 "When I go, you will not be left all alone; I will come back to you. 19 In a little while the world will see me no more, but you will see me; and because I live, you also will live. 20 When that day comes, you will know that I am in my Father and that you are in me, just as I am in you.

25 "I have told you this while I am still with you. 26 The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and make you remember all that I have told you. 27 "Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid. 28 You heard me say to you, "I am leaving, but I will come back to you.' If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father; for he is greater than I. 29 I have told you this now before it all happens, so that when it does happen, you will believe. 30 I cannot talk with you much longer, because the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me, 31 but the world must know that I love the Father; that is why I do everything as he commands me. "Come, let us go from this place.

• Joh 14:12 - KJV wording: MY <1473> <3588> FATHER <3962> - corrected wording: the <3588> Father <3962> [literally omit: of me <1473>] - (based on original text's correction of KJV Greek text)
• Joh 14:12 - WORKS THAT I DO WILL HE DO ALSO (KJV)
• [To explore additional references, browse "WORKS THAT I DO WILL HE DO ALSO" at http://www.bibletexts.com/topics/w.htm.]
• Joh 14:16,26 - KJV wording: COMFORTER <3875> - modern translation: Advocate (or: Paraclete, Counselor, or Defense Attorney)
• [To read an explanation of the Greek word translated as "Comforter"or "Advocate" as used in the Gospel of John, browse http://www.bibletexts.com/terms/comforter.htm .]
• Joh 14:16 - KJV wording: MAY ABIDE <3306> - corrected wording: be <1510> (or: exist or have existence or have being) - (based on the original text's correction of the KJV's Greek text)
• Joh 14:17 - omit KJV wording: BUT <1161> - (based on the original text's correction of KJV's Greek text)

KJV - 2 The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.

6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder:…

NRSV - 2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness -- on them light has shined.

6 For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders;...

TEV - "The Future King" - 2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. They lived in a land of shadows, but now light is shining on them. 3 You have given them great joy, Lord; you have made them happy. They rejoice in what you have done, as people rejoice when they harvest grain or when they divide captured wealth.

6 A child is born to us! A son is given to us! And he will be our ruler. He will be called, "Wonderful Counselor," "Mighty God," "Eternal Father," "Prince of Peace." 7 His royal power will continue to grow; his kingdom will always be at peace. He will rule as King David's successor, basing his power on right and justice, from now until the end of time. The LORD Almighty is determined to do all this.

Though the latter part of verse 6 is not included in this Bible Lesson, those who read the whole verse or the whole Bible paragraph, in order to read it in context, may find the following explanations helpful. The entire verse reads, "A child is born to us! A son is given to us! And he will be our ruler. He will be called, "Wonderful Counselor," "Mighty God," "Eternal Father," "Prince of Peace." "

• Isa 9:6 - KJV wording: WONDERFUL, COUNSELOR - correct translation: Wonderful Counselor
• Isa 9:6 - THE MIGHTY GOD

[Internationally respected Old Testament scholar Otto Kaiser (Old Testament Library: Isaiah 1-12, translated by R.A. Wilson, Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1972, pages 128-130) brings a lot of clarification to the meaning of this verse when he writes the following:]

• [6] The enthronement of the saviour king... The night of liberation is followed by the day of coronation. The herald comes to those who have been set free with the news that a descendant of David has ascended the throne, his rule once again including the whole people of the twelve tribes. 'To us a child is born.' But as Ps. 2.7 clearly shows, this is no more than an expression for the adoption of the king by God in the moment in which which he ascends the throne. In the case of this king all the enthronement ceremonies are more than an ideal meant to be achieved later, but never in fact attained. They are simply a further testimony of what God has already brought to reality through him: the government has been given to him. As a sign of this the sceptre lies upon his shoulder (cf. Ps. 110:2). And the titles he bears, which set out the programme for his reign and promise him good fortune, are given to him by his father when he is raised to the status of a son: He who plans wonders; Mighty God; Everlasting Father; Prince of Peace... The first name signifies that his king will need no outside advice and that his own plans, which extend to the whole world, will attain their goal, because God guides his thoughts (cf. 25:1; Ps. 20:4). The second emphasizes the fulness of his power and is reminiscent of the 'spirit of heroic virtue' (11:; cf. also Pss. 20:6; 21:1,13). Only here and in Ps. 45:6 is the king referred to as 'god' in the Old Testament. The concept of the king as the son of God in physical terms, which is found particularly in Egypt, was transformed in Jerusalem, according to Pss. 2.7; 89:26f.; and II Sam. 7:14, into a relationship of father and child that derived from an act of adoption. The meaning of this name is unequivocal: it describes the king as the legitimate representative of God upon earth...

KJV - 1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, 2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. 3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. 5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, 6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. 7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.

9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

NRSV - 1 In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 asking, "Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage." 3 When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet: 6 "And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel."' 7 Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared.

9 When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy.

TEV - "Visitors from the East" - 1 Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem in Judea, during the time when Herod was king. Soon afterward, some men who studied the stars came from the East to Jerusalem 2 and asked, "Where is the baby born to be the king of the Jews? We saw his star when it came up in the east, and we have come to worship him." 3 When King Herod heard about this, he was very upset, and so was everyone else in Jerusalem. 4 He called together all the chief priests and the teachers of the Law and asked them, "Where will the Messiah be born?" 5 "In the town of Bethlehem in Judea," they answered. "For this is what the prophet wrote: 6 "Bethlehem in the land of Judah, you are by no means the least of the leading cities of Judah; for from you will come a leader who will guide my people Israel." 7 So Herod called the visitors from the East to a secret meeting and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 Then he sent them to Bethlehem with these instructions: "Go and make a careful search for the child; and when you find him, let me know, so that I too may go and worship him." 9...10 And so they left, and on their way they saw the same star they had seen in the East. When they saw it, how happy they were, what joy was theirs! It went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 11 They went into the house, and when they saw the child with his mother Mary, they knelt down and worshiped him. They brought out their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, and presented them to him. 12 Then they returned to their country by another road, since God had warned them in a dream not to go back to Herod.

• JESUS' FAMILY
• [To explore the family with whom Jesus grew up, including his sisters and brothers (as noted in the New Testament), browse: http://www.bibletexts.com/terms/JesusFamily.htm.]

KJV - 8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

NRSV - 8 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for see -- I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.

52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favor.

TEV - "The Shepherds and the Angels" - 8 There were some shepherds in that part of the country who were spending the night in the fields, taking care of their flocks. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone over them. They were terribly afraid, 10 but the angel said to them, "Don't be afraid! I am here with good news for you, which will bring great joy to all the people. 11 This very day in David's town your Savior was born -- Christ the Lord! 12 And this is what will prove it to you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

"The Boy Jesus in the Temple" - 49 He answered them, "Why did you have to look for me? Didn't you know that I had to be in my Father's house?" 50 But they did not understand his answer. 51 So Jesus went back with them to Nazareth, where he was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 Jesus grew both in body and in wisdom, gaining favor with God and men.

KJV - 23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

NRSV - 23 Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.

TEV - "Jesus Teaches, Preaches, and Heals" - 23 Jesus went all over Galilee, teaching in the synagogues, preaching the Good News about the Kingdom, and healing people who had all kinds of disease and sickness. 24 The news about him spread through the whole country of Syria, so that people brought to him all those who were sick, suffering from all kinds of diseases and disorders: people with demons, and epileptics, and paralytics -- and Jesus healed them all. 25 Large crowds followed him from Galilee and the Ten Towns, from Jerusalem, Judea, and the land on the other side of the Jordan.

• Mat 4:23 - KJV wording: JESUS <2424> - corrected wording: he [Literally omit: Jesus <2424>; "he" is understood by the conjugation of the Greek verb.]
• The KJV translated "Jesus" into the text, because the Textus Receptus incorrectly had "Jesus" in the Greek text of that verse. (For details about the Textus Receptus and its influence on the KJV, see http://www.bibletexts.com/kjv-tr.htm.)
• The NRSV and TEV interpretted "Jesus" into the text, even though "Jesus" was not specified in the Greek text they used for the translation.
• The more literal New American Bible (NAB), Revised Standard Version (RSV), and other modern versions correctly translated "he" in this verse, because "Jesus" was not specified in the Greek text they used for the translation.
• Mat 4:23 (after ABOUT) - add to KJV wording: in <1722>
• Mat 4:23 - KJV wording: GOSPEL <2098> - modern translation: good news

KJV - 14 And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever. 15 And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them. 16 When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick:

NRSV - 14 When Jesus entered Peter's house, he saw his mother-in-law lying in bed with a fever; 15 he touched her hand, and the fever left her, and she got up and began to serve him. 16 That evening they brought to him many who were possessed with demons; and he cast out the spirits with a word, and cured all who were sick.

TEV - "Jesus Heals Many People" - 14 Jesus went to Peter's home, and there he saw Peter's mother-in-law sick in bed with a fever. 15 He touched her hand; the fever left her, and she got up and began to wait on him. 16 When evening came, people brought to Jesus many who had demons in them. Jesus drove out the evil spirits with a word and healed all who were sick. 17 He did this to make come true what the prophet Isaiah had said, "He himself took our sickness and carried away our diseases."

• Mat 8:15 - KJV wording: UNTO THEM - corrected wording: unto him.

KJV - 8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. 9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? 10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.

NRSV - 8 Philip said to him, "Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied."

10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own; but the Father who dwells in me does his works.

TEV - "Jesus the Way to the Father" - 5 Thomas said to him, "Lord, we do not know where you are going; so how can we know the way to get there?" 6 Jesus answered him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me. 7 Now that you have known me," he said to them, "you will know my Father also, and from now on you do know him and you have seen him." 8 Philip said to him, "Lord, show us the Father; that is all we need." 9 Jesus answered, "For a long time I have been with you all; yet you do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. Why, then, do you say, "Show us the Father'? 10 Do you not believe, Philip, that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I have spoken to you," Jesus said to his disciples, "do not come from me. The Father, who remains in me, does his own work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me. If not, believe because of the things I do. 12 I am telling you the truth: whoever believes in me will do what I do -- yes, he will do even greater things, because I am going to the Father.

KJV - 12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

NRSV - 12 "I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me, because he will take what is mine and declare it to you.

TEV - "The Work of the Holy Spirit" - 12 "I have much more to tell you, but now it would be too much for you to bear. 13 When, however, the Spirit comes, who reveals the truth about God, he will lead you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own authority, but he will speak of what he hears and will tell you of things to come. 14 He will give me glory, because he will take what I say and tell it to you. 15 All that my Father has is mine; that is why I said that the Spirit will take what I give him and tell it to you.

KJV - 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.

NRSV - 8 Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment.

TEV - "The Mission of the Twelve" - 5 These twelve men were sent out by Jesus with the following instructions: "Do not go to any Gentile territory or any Samaritan towns. 6 Instead, you are to go to the lost sheep of the people of Israel. 7 Go and preach, "The Kingdom of heaven is near!' 8 Heal the sick, bring the dead back to life, heal those who suffer from dreaded skin diseases, and drive out demons. You have received without paying, so give without being paid. 9 Do not carry any gold, silver, or copper money in your pockets; 10 do not carry a beggar's bag for the trip or an extra shirt or shoes or a walking stick. A worker should be given what he needs.

• Mat 10:8 - KJV wording: CLEANSE THE LEPERS, RAISE THE DEAD - corrected wording: raise the dead, cleanse the lepers - (based on the original text's correction of KJV's Greek text)
• Mat 10:8 - KJV wording: DEVILS - correct translation: demons
• Mat 10:8 - KJV wording: FREELY - correct translation: without charge
• Mat 10:8 - KJV wording: HEAL THE SICK, CLEANSE, THE LEPERS, RAISE THE DEAD, CAST OUT DEVILS
• To read a textual commentary that explains the correct word order and translation of this verse, and how Mrs. Eddy used the RV/ASV translation in the "Cross and Crown seal" of Christian Science," browse or click on http://www.bibletexts.com/versecom/mat10v08.htm.
• KJV: "Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils:"
• RV: "Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out devils:"
• ASV: "Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons"
• "Cross and Crown seal" of Christian Science: "Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons" (on the cover of S&H and all published writings of Mary Baker Eddy. Mrs. Eddy used the RV/ASV translation of this verse for the "Cross and Crown seal" of Christian Science.)
• To explore some of Mary Baker Eddy's other quotes and paraphrases from non-KJV translations of the Bible, see Section 3 of http://www.bibletexts.com/bl-ver.htm.
• Greek: asthenouvntas <770> therapeuete <2323>, nekrous <3498> egeirete <1453>, leprous <3015> katharizete <2511>, daimonia <1140> ekballete <1544>:
• Mat 10:8 - Christian healing
• To explore other references and articles on Christian healing, browse http://www.bibletexts.com/topics/christianhealing.htm

KJV - 23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) 24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.

NRSV - 23 Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds,

35 Do not, therefore, abandon that confidence of yours; it brings a great reward.

TEV - "Let Us Come Near to God" - 19 We have, then, my brothers, complete freedom to go into the Most Holy Place by means of the death of Jesus. 20 He opened for us a new way, a living way, through the curtain -- that is, through his own body. 21 We have a great priest in charge of the house of God. 22 So let us come near to God with a sincere heart and a sure faith, with hearts that have been purified from a guilty conscience and with bodies washed with clean water. 23 Let us hold on firmly to the hope we profess, because we can trust God to keep his promise. 24 Let us be concerned for one another, to help one another to show love and to do good. 25 Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another all the more, since you see that the Day of the Lord is coming nearer.

32 Remember how it was with you in the past. In those days, after God's light had shone on you, you suffered many things, yet were not defeated by the struggle. 33 You were at times publicly insulted and mistreated, and at other times you were ready to join those who were being treated in this way. 34 You shared the sufferings of prisoners, and when all your belongings were seized, you endured your loss gladly, because you knew that you still possessed something much better, which would last forever. 35 Do not lose your courage, then, because it brings with it a great reward.

KJV - 2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; 3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father; 4 Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God. 5 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance;…

NRSV - 2 We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly 3 remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 4 For we know, brothers and sisters beloved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction;...

TEV - "The Life and Faith of the Thessalonians" - 2 We always thank God for you all and always mention you in our prayers. 3 For we remember before our God and Father how you put your faith into practice, how your love made you work so hard, and how your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ is firm. 4 Our brothers, we know that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own. 5 For we brought the Good News to you, not with words only, but also with power and the Holy Spirit, and with complete conviction of its truth. You know how we lived when we were with you; it was for your own good. 6 You imitated us and the Lord; and even though you suffered much, you received the message with the joy that comes from the Holy Spirit. 7 So you became an example to all believers in Macedonia and Achaia.

KJV - 33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end. 34 Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart.

97 O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.

NRSV - 33 Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end. 34 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.

97 Oh, how I love your law! It is my meditation all day long.

TEV - "A Prayer for Understanding" - 33 Teach me, LORD, the meaning of your laws, and I will obey them at all times. 34 Explain your law to me, and I will obey it; I will keep it with all my heart. 35 Keep me obedient to your commandments, because in them I find happiness. 36 Give me the desire to obey your laws rather than to get rich. 37 Keep me from paying attention to what is worthless; be good to me, as you have promised. 38 Keep your promise to me, your servant -- the promise you make to those who obey you. 39 Save me from the insults I fear; how wonderful are your judgments!

"Love for the Law of the LORD" - 97 How I love your law! I think about it all day long. 98 Your commandment is with me all the time and makes me wiser than my enemies. 99 I understand more than all my teachers, because I meditate on your instructions. 100 I have greater wisdom than old men, because I obey your commands. 101 I have avoided all evil conduct, because I want to obey your word. 102 I have not neglected your instructions, because you yourself are my teacher. 103 How sweet is the taste of your instructions -- sweeter even than honey!

KJV - 5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

NRSV - 5 "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6 "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

8 "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

TEV - "True Happiness" - 3 "Happy are those who know they are spiritually poor; the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them! 4 "Happy are those who mourn; God will comfort them! 5 "Happy are those who are humble; they will receive what God has promised! 6 "Happy are those whose greatest desire is to do what God requires; God will satisfy them fully! 7 "Happy are those who are merciful to others; God will be merciful to them! 8 "Happy are the pure in heart; they will see God! 9 "Happy are those who work for peace; God will call them his children!

"Love for Enemies" - 43 "You have heard that it was said, "Love your friends, hate your enemies.' 44 But now I tell you: love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may become the sons of your Father in heaven. For he makes his sun to shine on bad and good people alike, and gives rain to those who do good and to those who do evil. 46 Why should God reward you if you love only the people who love you? Even the tax collectors do that! 47 And if you speak only to your friends, have you done anything out of the ordinary? Even the pagans do that! 48 You must be perfect -- just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

• Mat 5, 6, 7 - THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT
• To explore biblical and other references to the entire Sermon on the Mount, browse http://www.bibletexts.com/terms/SOM.htm.

KJV - 14 …continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

NRSV - 14 ...continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it, 15 and how from childhood you have known the sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

TEV - "Last Instructions" - 14 But as for you, continue in the truths that you were taught and firmly believe. You know who your teachers were, 15 and you remember that ever since you were a child, you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving instruction for right living, 17 so that the person who serves God may be fully qualified and equipped to do every kind of good deed.

KJV - 15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

NRSV - 15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved by him, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly explaining the word of truth. 16 Avoid profane chatter, for it will lead people into more and more impiety,

19 But God's firm foundation stands, bearing this inscription: "The Lord knows those who are his," and, "Let everyone who calls on the name of the Lord turn away from wickedness."

22 Shun youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.

TEV - "An Approved Worker" - 14 Remind your people of this, and give them a solemn warning in God's presence not to fight over words. It does no good, but only ruins the people who listen. 15 Do your best to win full approval in God's sight, as a worker who is not ashamed of his work, one who correctly teaches the message of God's truth. 16 Keep away from profane and foolish discussions, which only drive people farther away from God. 17 Such teaching is like an open sore that eats away the flesh. Two men who have taught such things are Hymenaeus and Philetus. 18 They have left the way of truth and are upsetting the faith of some believers by saying that our resurrection has already taken place. 19 But the solid foundation that God has laid cannot be shaken; and on it are written these words: "The Lord knows those who are his" and "Whoever says that he belongs to the Lord must turn away from wrongdoing." 20 In a large house there are dishes and bowls of all kinds: some are made of silver and gold, others of wood and clay; some are for special occasions, others for ordinary use. 21 If anyone makes himself clean from all those evil things, he will be used for special purposes, because he is dedicated and useful to his Master, ready to be used for every good deed. 22 Avoid the passions of youth, and strive for righteousness, faith, love, and peace, together with those who with a pure heart call out to the Lord for help. 23 But keep away from foolish and ignorant arguments; you know that they end up in quarrels.

• 2Ti 2:15 - KJV wording: STUDY - correct translation: strive

KJV - 12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

NRSV - 12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life."

TEV - "Jesus the Light of the World" - 12 Jesus spoke to the Pharisees again. "I am the light of the world," he said. "Whoever follows me will have the light of life and will never walk in darkness." 13 The Pharisees said to him, "Now you are testifying on your own behalf; what you say proves nothing."

KJV - 20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

NRSV - 20 Once Jesus was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, and he answered, "The kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed; 21 nor will they say, "Look, here it is!' or "There it is!' For, in fact, the kingdom of God is among you."

TEV - "The Coming of the Kingdom" - 20 Some Pharisees asked Jesus when the Kingdom of God would come. His answer was, "The Kingdom of God does not come in such a way as to be seen. 21 No one will say, "Look, here it is!' or, "There it is!'; because the Kingdom of God is within you."

• Luk 17:21 - THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS WITHIN YOU
• [To explore additional references in the Bible and other writings, browse "THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS WITHIN YOU" at http://www.bibletexts.com/topics/k.htm.]

KJV - 8 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. 9 But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by.

19 In your patience possess ye your souls.

25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. 27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

NRSV - 8 And he said, "Beware that you are not led astray; for many will come in my name and say, "I am he!' and, "The time is near!' Do not go after them. 9 "When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for these things must take place first, but the end will not follow immediately."

19 By your endurance you will gain your souls.

25 "There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26 People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see "the Son of Man coming in a cloud' with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."

TEV - "Troubles and Persecutions" - 7 "Teacher," they asked, "when will this be? And what will happen in order to show that the time has come for it to take place?" 8 Jesus said, "Watch out; don't be fooled. Many men, claiming to speak for me, will come and say, "I am he!' and, "The time has come!' But don't follow them. 9 Don't be afraid when you hear of wars and revolutions; such things must happen first, but they do not mean that the end is near."

14 Make up your minds ahead of time not to worry about how you will defend yourselves, 15 because I will give you such words and wisdom that none of your enemies will be able to refute or contradict what you say. 16 You will be handed over by your parents, your brothers, your relatives, and your friends; and some of you will be put to death. 17 Everyone will hate you because of me. 18 But not a single hair from your heads will be lost. 19 Stand firm, and you will save yourselves.

25 "There will be strange things happening to the sun, the moon, and the stars. On earth whole countries will be in despair, afraid of the roar of the sea and the raging tides. 26 People will faint from fear as they wait for what is coming over the whole earth, for the powers in space will be driven from their courses. 27 Then the Son of Man will appear, coming in a cloud with great power and glory. 28 When these things begin to happen, stand up and raise your heads, because your salvation is near."

• Luk 21:8 - KJV wording: I AM CHRIST - corrected translation: I am or I am he. [Literally: Ego eimi. Though consistent with the meaning of this verse, "Christ" (Greek: Christos) did not appear here in the original text.)]
• ARC Leaney (The Gospel According to Luke, Black's New Testament Commentaries, London: A&C Black, 1966) comments:
• I am he. I.e. 'The Messiah is present'. Daube (p. 325) claims that the origin of the saying with this sense is the Passover Haggadah. Cf. Mark xiii. 6, and the references in the Fourth Gospel where there is often a reminiscence of the treatment of the formula in the OT as equivalent to the divine name (e.g. Is. xliii. 10; xlviii. 12). See John iv. 25 f.; viii. 24,28,58; xiii. 19; xviii. 5, 6, 8, and Dodd, The Interpretation of the Fourth Gospel, pp. 93 ff.
• Frederick Danker (Jesus and the New Age: According to St. Luke, St. Louis: Clayton Publishing House, 1972) comments:
• 8. The many who come in his name (vs. 8) are not people who claim to be Jesus making his return, but false claimants to the messianic office. They come making claims that belong properly only to Jesus, for he alone is entitled to be called Messiah. Some of them will say, I am he! This expression is applied to God in the Old Testament: Exodus 3:14; Isaiah 43:10-11; 48:12; 52:6. It is applied frequently to Jesus in the Fourth Gospel: 4:26; 8:24, 28, 58; 13:19; 18:5 ,6, 8. In Luke 22:70 the phrase appears in a crucial context dealing with the question of Jesus' identity. Mark uses the phrase three times (6:50; 13:6; 14:62). The first of these is in a story omitted by Luke [Mark 6:45-51]... The phrase clearly connotes claims that transcend normal human experience and is therefore appropriate in an apocalyptic context. Other false messiahs will say, The time is at hand! This phrase is not equivalent to 'The Messiah is here!' It means that some will under the guise of messianic authority assert that the wind-up of history, as described in popular apocalyptic , is about to take place. In other words, the identity of the Messiah is to be dependent on spectacular cosmic events. Luke inserts the sayings into Markan material in order to emphasize the falseness of such a view, for through his gospel he has demonstrated that Jesus' credentials are independent of the end-time fireworks.
• For a detailed webpage article on the "Jesus' 'I am' sayings in the Fourth Gospel," browse http://www.bibletexts.com/terms/I-am.htm.
• Luk 21:9 - KJV wording: BY AND BY - modern translation: immediately
• Luk 21:9-11- ENDURE TO THE END
• [To explore additional references in the Bible and other writings, browse "ENDURE TO THE END" at http://www.bibletexts.com/topics/e.htm.]
• Luk 21:26 - KJV wording: HEAVEN <3772, plural> - correct translation: the <3588> heavens <3772, plural>

KJV - 16 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.

19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

NRSV - 16 For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty.

19 So we have the prophetic message more fully confirmed. You will do well to be attentive to this as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.

TEV - "Eyewitnesses of Christ's Glory" - 16 We have not depended on made-up stories in making known to you the mighty coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. With our own eyes we saw his greatness. 17 We were there when he was given honor and glory by God the Father, when the voice came to him from the Supreme Glory, saying, "This is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased!" 18 We ourselves heard this voice coming from heaven, when we were with him on the holy mountain. 19 So we are even more confident of the message proclaimed by the prophets. You will do well to pay attention to it, because it is like a lamp shining in a dark place until the Day dawns and the light of the morning star shines in your hearts. 20 Above all else, however, remember that no one can explain by himself a prophecy in the Scriptures. 21 For no prophetic message ever came just from the will of man, but men were under the control of the Holy Spirit as they spoke the message that came from God.

KJV - 1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:

NRSV - 1 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place; he made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,

TEV - "Introduction" - 1 This book is the record of the events that Jesus Christ revealed. God gave him this revelation in order to show to his servants what must happen very soon. Christ made these things known to his servant John by sending his angel to him, 2 and John has told all that he has seen. This is his report concerning the message from God and the truth revealed by Jesus Christ. 3 Happy is the one who reads this book, and happy are those who listen to the words of this prophetic message and obey what is written in this book! For the time is near when all these things will happen.

KJV - 1 And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars: 2 And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.

5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.

10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ:..

NRSV - 1 A great portent appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars. 2 She was pregnant and was crying out in birthpangs, in the agony of giving birth.

5 And she gave birth to a son, a male child, who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron. But her child was snatched away and taken to God and to his throne;

10 Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, proclaiming, "Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Messiah,...

TEV - "The Woman and the Dragon" - 1 Then a great and mysterious sight appeared in the sky. There was a woman, whose dress was the sun and who had the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head. 2 She was soon to give birth, and the pains and suffering of childbirth made her cry out. 3 Another mysterious sight appeared in the sky. There was a huge red dragon with seven heads and ten horns and a crown on each of his heads. 4 With his tail he dragged a third of the stars out of the sky and threw them down to the earth. He stood in front of the woman, in order to eat her child as soon as it was born. 5 Then she gave birth to a son, who will rule over all nations with an iron rod. But the child was snatched away and taken to God and his throne. 6 The woman fled to the desert, to a place God had prepared for her, where she will be taken care of for 1,260 days.

10 Then I heard a loud voice in heaven saying, "Now God's salvation has come! Now God has shown his power as King! Now his Messiah has shown his authority! For the one who stood before our God and accused our brothers day and night has been thrown out of heaven. 11 Our brothers won the victory over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the truth which they proclaimed; and they were willing to give up their lives and die. 12 And so be glad, you heavens, and all you that live there! But how terrible for the earth and the sea! For the Devil has come down to you, and he is filled with rage, because he knows that he has only a little time left."

KJV - 6 And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. 7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him:…

NRSV - 6 Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the sound of many waters and like the sound of mighty thunderpeals, crying out, "Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns. 7 Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory,...

TEV - "The Wedding Feast of the Lamb" - 5 Then there came from the throne the sound of a voice, saying, "Praise our God, all his servants and all people, both great and small, who have reverence for him!" 6 Then I heard what sounded like a crowd, like the sound of a roaring waterfall, like loud peals of thunder. I heard them say, "Praise God! For the Lord, our Almighty God, is King! 7 Let us rejoice and be glad; let us praise his greatness! For the time has come for the wedding of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself for it. 8 She has been given clean shining linen to wear." (The linen is the good deeds of God's people.)

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