« | James 3 | » |
1 My brothers, let not many become teachers, knowing that we shall receive greater judgment.
2 For we all stumble in many [ways]. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a mature man, able also to bridle the whole body.
3 Consider that we put bits in horses' mouths that they may obey us, and we guide their whole body.
4 Consider also the ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the impulse of the pilot desires.
5 Even so the tongue is a small member and it boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles!
6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. Thus the tongue is set among our members, as that which defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell.
7 For every kind of both beasts and birds, of both reptiles and sea creatures, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind.
8 But no man can tame the tongue. [It] is an unrestrainable evil, full of deadly poison.
9 With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who are created according to [the] likeness of God.
10 Out of the same mouth come blessings and curses. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.
11 The spring does not pour forth from the same opening [both] the sweet and the bitter [water, does it]?
12 It is not possible, my brothers, [for] a fig tree to make olives, or a vine [to make] figs, [is it]? Thus no spring is able to produce [both] salt and sweet water.
13 Is there anyone wise and understanding among you? Let him show by his good conduct [that] his works [are] in meekness of wisdom.
14 But if you have bitter jealousy and strife in your heart, do not boast and lie against the truth.
15 This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.
16 For where jealousy and strife [exist], there unrest and every evil deed [are].
17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those making peace.
The Apostles’ Bible Complete (ABC)
The Apostles’ Bible Complete (ABC) is a modern translation of the Bible that strives to offer a clear and faithful rendering of the scriptures in contemporary language. This translation is designed to be accessible to a wide audience, providing an easy-to-read yet accurate version of the biblical text. The ABC translation aims to bridge the gap between the ancient languages in which the Bible was originally written and the modern vernacular, making it an ideal choice for both personal study and public reading.
One of the notable features of the Apostles’ Bible Complete is its dedication to maintaining the integrity of the original manuscripts. The translators of the ABC worked meticulously with the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts to ensure that their translation accurately reflects the original meaning and intent of the scriptures. By employing a balance of formal equivalence (word-for-word) and dynamic equivalence (thought-for-thought) translation techniques, the ABC aims to preserve the nuances and richness of the original languages while ensuring readability and clarity for modern readers.
The ABC also incorporates extensive cross-references and study aids to enhance the reader’s understanding of the biblical text. These tools include footnotes that provide historical and cultural context, as well as explanations of difficult or ambiguous passages. This approach helps readers to grasp the deeper meanings of the scriptures and to see how different parts of the Bible interconnect. The inclusion of these study aids makes the ABC particularly useful for those who are new to the Bible, as well as for more experienced readers who are looking to deepen their understanding of the text.
Despite its strengths, the Apostles’ Bible Complete has faced some criticisms. Some readers feel that the translation could benefit from further refinement in certain passages, as the balance between formal and dynamic equivalence can sometimes lead to inconsistencies in style and tone. Others have noted that while the study aids are helpful, they can occasionally overwhelm the main text, making it difficult to focus on the scripture itself. Nonetheless, the ABC remains a valuable and respected translation, appreciated for its commitment to accuracy, clarity, and accessibility, and for its ability to bring the ancient words of the Bible to life for contemporary readers.