« | Psalm 17 | » |
1 A Prayer of David. Hearken, O Lord of my righteousness, attend to my petition; give ear to my prayer not [uttered] with deceitful lips.
2 Let my judgment come forth from Your presence; let my eyes behold righteousness.
3 You has tested my heart; You have visited [me] in the night; You have tried me as with fire, and unrighteousness has not been found in me; [I am purposed] that my mouth shall not speak [amiss.]
4 As for the works of men, by the words of Your lips I have guarded [myself from] hard ways.
5 Direct my steps in Your paths, that my steps slip not.
6 I have cried, for You heard me, O God: incline Your ear to me, and listen to my words.
7 Show the marvels of Your mercies, You that save them that trust in You.
8 Keep me as the apple of Your eye from those that resist Your right hand; You shall screen me by the covering of Your wings,
9 from the face of the ungodly that have afflicted me; my enemies have compassed about my soul.
10 They have enclosed [themselves with] their own fat; their mouths have spoken pride.
11 They have now cast me out and compassed me round about. They have set their eyes [so as] to bow them down to the ground.
12 They laid wait for me as a lion ready for prey, and like a lion's whelp dwelling in secret [places].
13 Arise, O Lord, prevent them, and cast them down; deliver my soul from the ungodly; [draw] Your sword,
14 because of the enemies of Your hand. O Lord, destroy them from the earth; scatter them in their life, though their belly has been filled with Your hidden [treasures]; they have been satisfied with uncleanness, and have left the remnant [of their possessions] to their babes.
15 But I shall appear in righteousness before Your face: I shall be satisfied when Your glory appears.
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.