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I’ve heard people ask the question, “Is It Okay to Use Bibles Besides the King James?” In one word, the answer is, “YES!” In fact, I can’t think of anything else you could do that would better improve your understanding of the Bible.
The Church’s “Holy Bible” Page says, “Generally, members use a Church-preferred or Church-published edition of the Bible in Church classes and meetings.” [In English, this would be the King James.]
The Church’s page goes on to say, “Other Bible translations may also be used. Some individuals may benefit from translations that are both doctrinally clear and also easier to understand…The Bible can be difficult to understand. It would be appropriate to use a simpler Bible translation for youth and children or any who would benefit.“
I’ve seen examples where people have been criticized for reading a different Bible translation. As the Church’s statement above makes clear, that should never happen.
You might be surprised to know that for 40 years, the NIV—not the KJV—has been the bestselling Bible in America. Thus most Christians who visit the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will be more familiar with versions other than the KJV. So let’s be warm and welcoming.
That leads to another question…Which Bible versions should you consider? Read all the details here.
Do General Authorities Use Modern Translations?
In a word, yes! I’ve worked with my colleagues Matthew Grey and Mark Ellison to gather this list of instances across the years in which General Authorities have used modern Bible translations.
The Bottom Line: It’s totally fine to read other versions of the Bible. Here are some of my favorites.
