The Message

I've said this once before, but it bears repeating: The Message version of the Bible is fast becoming my favorite version.

Intended for 20-somethings, I think, The Message uses contemporary English to engage people in reading the Bible and to help them more easily understand what they read. And since it was translated directly from the original Greek and Hebrew manuscripts, it maintains the integrity of the Scriptures.

I like it's rhythm and flow and that it's easy-to-understand. The Message is absolutely transforming my Bible study, giving me new insight into passages of Scriptures I've read dozens of times before, like the following:

"God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us." – Ephesians 3:20

I got excited reading this passage, which I suspect was Paul's intent when he wrote it—to inspire excitement about God and His Word.

While I'm sure there are some who will think The Message not very reverential, for me, being excited about God's Word is never a bad thing.