The Bible has been translated and interpreted innumerable times in its history. The following is a short list of some of the English versions

King James; New International Version; American Standard Version; Bible in Basic English; World English Bible, Contemporary English Bible; Good News Bible; International Standard Version; God's Word; Modern King James; Webster Bible; Young's Literal translation; Darby Bible; Douay-Rheims Bible; New American Standard Bible; Amplified Bible; New King James; New Living Translation; English Standard Version; Contemporary English Version; New Life Version

One of the central tenants of the Christian faith is that the Bible (Old and New Testament) is the word of God. This statement is based on two verses of scripture:

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. (2nd Timothy 3:16-17 KJV)

and

knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of private interpretation. For no prophecy ever came by the will of man: but holy men of God spoke, being moved by the Holy Spirit. (2nd Peter 1:20-21 KJV)

So why are so many versions of the Bible available? A sampling of the many different English translations are listed at the top of this page. Many of the different translations have their own following. Some will use one translation to the exclusion of all others. Some will even insist that their translation is the only correct translation

Complex arguments over syntax and phrasing are used to prove the validity of one translation over another. There is a word for this. It is called legalism.

An unfortunate consequence of this sort of thinking is seen in the number of sects of Christianity, each with its own set of beliefs and practices based upon the Bible. This in turn means that we must not only define our beliefs and practices, but make them public. The implication being that we do not wish to offend or falsely represent ourselves to other Christians. Hence the existence of this section.

The language used here is laced with Christian jargon and principles. It is aimed at the mature Christian, rather than those new to the faith.

Words are just things, with no real power beyond what we give them. It is the living spirit behind the words in which the power resides. Without the living spirit, all our worship is nothing, mere empty ritual. So come together and worship the Lord God in the name of the Son and in the Spirit of the living word!

God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.
(John 4:24 KJV)