The Voice Bible

The Voice Bible

The Ecclesia Bible Society

I always enjoy reviewing a fresh translation of the Bible and “The Voice” is no exception. I thought this was an excellent translation for reading and for simple enjoyment and basic comprehension of the Word of God.



I had the privilege of being able to review The Voice New Testament when it first came out several months ago and you can see my review of that here: http://evelynbookreviews.blogspot.ca/2011/11/voice-new-testament-revised-updated.html?m=0

I was really excited to get to review the Old Testament once it came out and I am happy to say that it did not disappoint. The key to enjoying The Voice is knowing what you’re getting and what you’re not getting from the get go. The Voice does not even begin try to be a literal translation. Don’t think ESV or even NIV, think more along the lines of The Message and the NLT when you think of The Voice. It is the kind of Bible that is helpful for new believers, for seekers, for Christians who are interested in a lighter read when in the midst of 2 Chronicles or Ezekiel, and so on. And it is important to read The Voice with the caveat that it is clear that the editors have preferred their Biblical interpretation to those of other major commentators whenever possible BOTH in their extra comments AND in their decisions on how to translate certain passages. This was not a surprise and does not seem to affect any real major points of doctrine so as long as you’re not looking to STUDY the Voice Bible, you will really enjoy this. If you want to study the Bible (and we all should!) we need to get back to what God has actually said, word for word. You will not find that here. But for devotional time with God enjoying a non-literal translation of His word as part of your time with Him, this translation is a great fit. It is also good for giving away to people who might not otherwise read the Bible. The playscript format makes for an easier read in some cases and the introductions and commentaries help to interpret particularly difficult passages of the old testament especially. I thought it was excellent!