« | Job 22 | » |
1 Is there anyone, even the wisest, who could ever be of use to God?
2 (SEE 22:1)
3 Does your doing right benefit God, or does your being good help him at all?
4 It is not because you stand in awe of God that he reprimands you and brings you to trial.
5 No, it's because you have sinned so much; it's because of all the evil you do.
6 To make a brother repay you the money he owed, you took away his clothes and left him nothing to wear.
7 You refused water to those who were tired, and refused to feed those who were hungry.
8 You used your power and your position to take over the whole land.
9 You not only refused to help widows, but you also robbed and mistreated orphans.
10 So now there are pitfalls all around you, and suddenly you are full of fear.
11 It has grown so dark that you cannot see, and a flood overwhelms you.
12 Doesn't God live in the highest heavens and look down on the stars, even though they are high?
13 And yet you ask, "What does God know? He is hidden by clouds---how can he judge us?"
14 You think the thick clouds keep him from seeing, as he walks on the dome of the sky.
15 Are you determined to walk in the paths that evil people have always followed?
16 Even before their time had come, they were washed away by a flood.
17 These are the ones who rejected God and believed that he could do nothing to them.
18 And yet it was God who made them prosperous--- I can't understand the thoughts of the wicked.
19 Good people are glad and the innocent laugh when they see the wicked punished.
20 All that the wicked own is destroyed, and fire burns up anything that is left.
21 Now, Job, make peace with God and stop treating him like an enemy; if you do, then he will bless you.
22 Accept the teaching he gives; keep his words in your heart.
23 Yes, you must humbly return to God and put an end to all the evil that is done in your house.
24 Throw away your gold; dump your finest gold in the dry stream bed.
25 Let Almighty God be your gold, and let him be silver, piled high for you.
26 Then you will always trust in God and find that he is the source of your joy.
27 When you pray, he will answer you, and you will keep the vows you made.
28 You will succeed in all you do, and light will shine on your path.
29 God brings down the proud and saves the humble.
30 He will rescue you if you are innocent, if what you do is right.
The Good News Bible (GNB)
The Good News Bible (GNB), also known as the Good News Translation (GNT) in the United States, is an English translation of the Bible that prioritizes readability and accessibility for a diverse audience. First published in 1966 by the American Bible Society, the GNB was originally designed as a translation for people with limited English proficiency, including non-native speakers and those with lower literacy levels. Its straightforward and contemporary language makes it particularly effective for use in educational settings, churches, and personal study.
One of the hallmark features of the Good News Bible is its dynamic equivalence translation philosophy, which focuses on conveying the thought and meaning of the original texts rather than adhering strictly to a word-for-word approach. This allows the translators to use idiomatic expressions and familiar language that resonate with modern readers. The GNB aims to present the Bible in a way that is relatable and engaging, making it easier for readers to connect with the biblical stories and teachings without getting bogged down by archaic language or complex theological terminology.
In addition to its clear language, the Good News Bible includes helpful illustrations, maps, and notes that enhance the reader’s understanding of the text. The translation is structured to facilitate comprehension, often breaking up longer passages into shorter paragraphs and sections. This visual organization aids readers in navigating the biblical narrative and understanding the context of various stories and teachings. The GNB also includes helpful footnotes that provide additional information and insights into specific verses, making it a valuable resource for study and reflection.
Despite its strengths, the Good News Bible has faced criticism from some scholars and traditionalists who prefer more literal translations. Critics argue that the dynamic equivalence approach can lead to a loss of nuance and depth present in the original languages. Additionally, some readers express concern that the GNB’s simplified language may not adequately convey the richness of the biblical text. However, the Good News Bible remains a widely used and appreciated translation, particularly for its commitment to making the scriptures accessible to all, allowing readers from various backgrounds to engage with and understand the timeless messages of the Bible.