During revival meeting one summer, an evangelist held up his Bible.  It was the color red. He conducted a poll of Bible colors in the Church.  He asked for all those with black Bibles to hold up their hands.  He then proceeded to the blue and green. Then he asked for all the red Bibles.  About 20 people held up their hands. The preacher made some comment about that these individuals were saying that their Bibles were not red, but had been read.  He then got us with a punch line: You mean all the rest of you haven't been reading your Bibles!! That one little letter that changes the word "red" to the word "read", and it makes all the difference in the world. The best Bible is truly a Bible you read!
   Over the last month, a lot of discussion has taken place about the best version of the Bible. There are many who prefer the old King James, some prefer the New King James, while others prefer the NIV or the RSV. While my purpose is not to offend any, please understand that even the King James was not the first Bible. It was the first widespread Bible used by the common man. I love its poetic nature and how many of the verses sound. I was personally raised up on it.   However, the NIV and RSV are translated from the best Greek manuscripts to be found. They are also written in a language which is easier for many of us to understand.  One generation can make a difference in how the language is used. For example, my 14 year old son made a remark a few months ago that he was going out with a girl. I asked, "Son, who's going to drive?" He replied, "Dad, going out means that you are going steady, not going on a date!"  I was totally confused.  Going out to me means that you are leaving! Many of the old English words of the 1500's are hard for some of us to understand.  That's why I like to read the

KJV, and then compare it to the NIV or RSV. Also, as a Pastor, I want my children and congregation as well to be led by the Holy Spirit in their time of Bible study. Please understand, you may not understand any version if you don't pray and seek the leadership of the Lord.
   I have no doubt that many will disagree with me. I still love you, and if you think I am wrong, please pray for me.  We should all make it our aim to do what Paul taught us in 2 Tim 2:15-16; "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. NIV"  We have a responsibility to ourselves and to others to read, study and handle the word of God with great respect and diligence.  Also for all those who think the Bible is full of mistakes, its not! The Bible is God's holy love letter to each of us. God is great enough to preserve his word to each generation.  The Bible says this about itself; 2 Tim 3:15-17 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. NIV
   Whatever version you prescribe to, one thing is for sure. It will never do anyone any good unless you take it down off the shelf. Make it a habit to read God's love letter to you each day.  Kids are funny. They get one little love letter from a boyfriend or girlfriend and completely wear it out. They read it over and over.  That's how our Bible should be for us. Don't let it collect dust. Wear it out as you read the verses over and over.
In his service,
Rev. David Chapman