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Positive Reviews of Today's New International Version Bible


Featured Reviews


"The TNIV is more accurate than its remarkable predecessor, the much-loved NIV, while retaining all the readability of the latter. It is a version I can use with confidence, whether I am speaking at a university mission, or in a Bible conference anywhere in the English-speaking world. I am deeply impressed by the godliness, linguistic competence, cultural awareness, and sheer fidelity to Scripture displayed by the translators. Thirty or forty years from now, I suspect, most evangelicals will have accepted the TNIV as a 'standard' translation, and will wonder what all the fuss was about in their parents' generation—in the same way that those of us with long memories marvel at all the fuss over the abandonment of 'thees' and 'thous' several decades ago.
- D.A. Carson, Ph.D
Research Professor of New Testament
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School


"As someone who is passionate about evangelism, I enthusiastically embrace the TNIV as a translation that faithfully communicates God's word to the next generation of seekers and believers. The TNIV is not only accurate, but incredibly readable. I look forward to using the TNIV for personal study, preaching and evangelism."
- Bill Hybels
Senior Pastor
Willow Creek Community Church


"As an evangelist committed to communicating the truth, relevancy, and power of the Gospel, I'm thankful to have the TNIV as one more valuable tool in reaching the next generation."
- Lee Strobel
Author
The Case for Christ, Host, Faith Under Fire
Former Willow Creek Teaching Pastor


"The TNIV is a fine translation whose goal of being sensitive to the English of its audience opens up the Word, especially to those who may not be familiar with Scripture. The use of alternatives in the marginal notes helps the reader see where the translation is disputed. It is clear, concise, and contemporary. In my book, that is three for three."
- Darrell Bock, Ph.D.
Research Professor of New Testament Studies
Dallas Theological Seminary


"From here on, this is my version of choice. The translation is faithful, readable to our contemporary ears—and yet it retains the dignity of classical translations."
- Richard Mouw, Ph.D.
President
Fuller Theological Seminary


"As the editor of the Student Bible, I've spent thousands of hours trying to help readers understand the NIV Bible. I'm thrilled to hear about the TNIV and its ability to help add clarity and impact to the study of God's Word."
- Philip Yancey
Author

"It is part of the mission of the church to make the scriptures available and accessible to people in our generation. The TNIV does this with accuracy, clarity, sensitivity and beauty. God will use it in great ways."
- John Ortberg
Teaching Pastor
Willow Creek Community Church


"I love how the TNIV is in everyday English. It is down to earth and easily accessible to anyone longing to know what God has spoken through the Scriptures."
- Erwin McManus
Pastor
Mosaic


""We welcome the arrival of the TNIV. It is a translation that seeks to accurately communicate the Word of God in contemporary English and as such strengthens our mission in reaching college and university students with the Gospel."
- Alec Hill
President
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship


"It has never been easy to distinguish between a 'translation' and a 'paraphrase'. Translations tend to go for contemporary scholarship at the expense of contemporary language, whereas paraphrases tend to sacrifice accuracy for relevance. Today's New International Version is highly successful in combining both scholarly accuracy and linguistic relevance."
- John R. W. Stott
Preacher, Evangelist, Author

"The only foundation that will prevail is the one built on God's Word. That's why I'm proud to stand with Zondervan, bringing the Word to today's generation. That's why I believe so strongly in Today's New International Version, the TNIV; a new translation that speaks the timeless truth of God's Word in the language of today."
- Peter Furler
Lead Singer
Newsboys



Main Listing


"Searching for a good, relevant translation is like a merchant looking for a fine pearl. When discovered, the merchant sells everything in order to buy it. The TNIV is like a fine pearl—I heartily recommend it for all people of the 21st century."
- Benny C. Aker, Ph.D.
Professor of New Testament and Exegesis
Assemblies of God Theological Seminary


"As a layman, I have benefited by more than a dozen translations and paraphrase versions of God's Word. Now I am excited to read personally and publicly this updated TNIV so relevant to our times. May the Holy Spirit use this to draw in the cautious skeptic, edify the believer and advance unity in the Body."
- Robert C Andringa, Ph. D.
President
Council for Christian Colleges & Universities, Washington, D.C.


"The TNIV should become the standard translation of its kind. It incorporates many helpful and accurate updates in the most widely used translation of our time. I welcome it, will use it personally, and plan to encourage both new and advanced Bible readers to do the same."
- Dr. John Armstrong
President
Reformation & Revival Ministries


"The TNIV is a wonderful, careful translation, true to the meaning of the text. It includes all of us in its message of God's good news of grace."
- Myron Augsburger, Th.D.
President Emeritus
Eastern Mennonite University


"I applaud Today's New International Version as being the latest remarkable effort to make available a Bible which is both very readable and the product of theologically conservative biblical scholarship. My old 1978 NIV edition is worn beyond repair due to use. I am thankful that I can replace it with the TNIV which incorporates 30 years of changes in the English language and scholarly research of God's Word."
- W. Sherrill Babb, Ph.D.
President
Philadelphia Biblical University


"As a father of two teenage daughters, I appreciate how the TNIV clearly and accurately communicates the unchanging truth of God's Word to the younger generations."
- Frank Bateman
Manager
Light and Life, Indianapolis


"I wholeheartedly applaud how the TNIV translation makes Holy Scripture relevant and understandable to the ever-changing human family. While every new translation triggers an understandable concern among faithful Christians that the translators do not sacrifice eternal truths to transitory cultural currents, the TNIV stays faithful to God's Word while making that Word ever more accessible to those for whom it is intended to reach and save."
- Noel Becchetti
President
Center for Student Missions, San Juan Capistrano


"The NIV and TNIV's closest natural equivalent principle of translation meets an important need within evangelical circles and will continue to well serve the global church in the coming years."
- Linda Belleville, Ph.D.
Professor of Biblical Literature
North Park Theological Seminary, Chicago


"The Word of God deserves nothing but the best linguistic vehicle for its impartation. The TNIV has become the best translation of the New Testament in the English language. It has achieved improved readability of the Scripture without compromising the integrity of the original text. The investment of expertise that went into this project will be rewarded with eternal results as people alienated from the truth of Scripture will discover salvation through this seeker-friendly translation."
- Gilbert Bilezikian, Th.D.
Professor of Biblical Studies
Wheaton College


"I fully endorse the TNIV. This is a much needed translation."
- Dr. John Binder
Pastor
Faith Baptist Church, Minneapolis


"I work in prison ministry and the TNIV is going to help us a lot. I work with the women and many of them are very unchurched and cannot make a connection when they read a verse about sons or brothers—they don't realize that it's talking to them, too. I'm very excited about the TNIV."
- Terri Blackstock
Bestselling Christian Author


"The TNIV avoids the overly free translation of certain texts that previous gender-inclusive translations have included, while rendering gender-inclusive uses of "man," "he," "brothers," and the like with appropriate, contemporary English exactly corresponding to the meaning of the original Greek or Hebrew. Not to do this leaves a Bible that increasingly misleads the modern reader; as the father of two daughters I know first hand how this works! And I remain a complementarian with respect to gender roles; the two issues are quite separate."
- Craig Blomberg, Ph.D.
Professor of New Testament
Denver Seminary, Denver, CO


"The TNIV is a fine translation whose goal of being sensitive to the English of its audience opens up the Word, especially to those who may not be familiar with Scripture. The use of alternatives in the marginal notes helps the reader see where the translation is disputed. It is clear, concise, and contemporary. In my book, that is three for three."
- Darrell Bock, Ph.D.
Research Professor of New Testament Studies
Dallas Theological Seminary


"Martin Luther once wrote that it was hard to make the Hebrew prophets speak German, and he received unfair criticism for adding the word "alone" to Romans 3:28 when it did not occur in the original text. Great translator that he was, Luther understood that there is more to producing a serviceable translation than merely offering a wooden, word-for-word transposition. The great translators working on the TNIV also understand that."
- Mark Braun, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Theology
Wisconsin Lutheran College


Great job!! We need all the help we can get if we're to escape becoming a biblically illiterate culture."
- Stuart Briscoe, D.D.
Phoenix Seminary (Adjunct Faculty)
Elmbrook Church (Retired Pastor)
Telling the Truth ministries (Co-founder)


"The TNIV is a fine and dynamic contemporary translation."
- James K. Bruckner, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Biblical Literature
North Park University, Chicago


Since the 1970s, the NIV rightly won its place among millions as a trustworthy, accurate, and eloquent translation of the scriptures. Now after years of painstaking work by a long list of skilled evangelical scholars, the TNIV is ready for another era. It continues the tradition of the NIV in every respect, making it even more readable, lively, and above all, accurate. This is a translation we can trust. This is the translation I - and countless other scholars - have been waiting for. This is the translation that will become the mainstay of the 21st century.
- Gary Burge, Ph.D.
Professor of New Testament
Wheaton College and Graduate School


"The TNIV is more accurate than its remarkable predecessor, the much-loved NIV, while retaining all the readability of the latter. It is a version I can use with confidence, whether I am speaking at a university mission, or in a Bible conference anywhere in the English-speaking world. I am deeply impressed by the godliness, linguistic competence, cultural awareness, and sheer fidelity to Scripture displayed by the translators. Thirty or forty years from now, I suspect, most evangelicals will have accepted the TNIV as a 'standard' translation, and will wonder what all the fuss was about in their parents' generation—in the same way that those of us with long memories marvel at all the fuss over the abandonment of 'thees' and 'thous' several decades ago.
- D.A. Carson, Ph.D
Research Professor of New Testament
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School


"The TNIV has definite shelf space in my stores. The TNIV uses today's language that is understood and desired by my customers."
- Barry Colyer
The Giving Tree

Today's New International Version is a powerful tool for evangelization in the 21st Century. God's Word was meant to be read and understood by everyone and the TNIV has been prayerfully translated toward this God/glorifying goal. I give it my highest recommendation!
- Jim Cymbala
Pastor
Brooklyn Tabernacle


"I majored in Bible for three years and have a commitment to teaching and preaching the scriptures with integrity. I tenaciously hold to the inspiration of all scripture and to the importance of not tampering with the scriptural truth. I read all the comparison texts you provided and then looked up texts that deal with the most important elements of the Christian faith, specifically those elements covered in evangelical statements of faith.

I am delighted with the clarity of the TNIV and even more delighted with the results of careful gender translation. The result is scriptural truth and grace that includes both genders. I could find no place where the translation felt forced in order to accommodate a preconceived agenda. I am delighted with the integrity and readability of the TNIV."

- Ken Davis
Author and Speaker

"For those of us who have worked internationally in God's Kingdom and in teaching/preaching the Word of God, it is wonderful to read translations that clearly convey the message of God's Word without the unnecessary barriers of cultural and linguistic confusion."

"I have worked in Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and North America. It was only in the lands of the Bible that I recognized many of the words, images, hyperboles, customs and traditions described in the written Word. It was there that I learned how much the message of the Bible has been lost by the out-of-date language still found in many Bible translations. The TNIV is superior to the former version because it tells more accurately and faithfully what the authors under the guidance of the Holy Spirit intended to convey to the readers of their times and those of today."

"God wrapped the Bible in eastern clothing and any help we westerners can get to cut through the eastern wrappings should receive our appreciative applause."

- Dr. Sidney DeWaal
International Council for Higher Education, Chancellor
Jerusalem University College, President (1993-2001)


"I am delighted to recommend TNIV. It is time for a new translation of the scriptures that captures the original intent in modern language. I plan to read and preach from this new translation."
- Ed Dobson
Senior Pastor
Calvary Church


"The NIV has a special place in the affections of many people in Northern Ireland. I feel that the availability of the Today's NIV, particularly in this low-cost edition with its range of useful reading helps, will support many opportunities to bring God's Word to people you have not yet discovered and responded to the Gospel message."
- John Doherty
General Manager
Bible Society in Northern Ireland (The)


"Because languages (including English) change over time, we will always need fresh translations of the Scriptures. The TNIV draws on the latest in biblical scholarship to move the meaning of the original text into clear, everyday English. This translation truly opens the window so that light of God's Word may shine brightly on today's generation and those to come."
- J. Scott Duvall, Ph.D.
Dean of the Chesley and Elizabeth Pruet School of Christian Studies
Ouachita Baptist University


"From an outreach perspective, I see a lot of strength in the TNIV reaching today's generation, while maintaining faithfulness to the meaning intended by the writers of the original biblical manuscripts."
- Scott Evans
Preacher, Evangelist, Author

"The TNIV does an excellent job in offering a clear, accurate, and contemporary translation in order to have the greatest impact on the masses for Christ."
- Roger Feenstra
President
Berean Christian Stores


I'm enthusiastic about the TNIV for many reasons related to my own training and calling. I studied graduate linguistics and translation theory for two years with Wycliffe Bible Translators (SIL) and served for many years in Asia; I gained a keen appreciation for the importance of a translation done in the "heart language" of those it seeks to reach. Presenlty, I serve in a position where our organization's goal is to empower churches to reach their communities with the gospel of Christ. The TNIV is written in today's language, proper yet flowing. It maintains a high value on accuracy, particularly when using pronouns that reflect the audience intended by the biblical writers. For the past six months, I've used this translation in my personal devotions and have been repeatedly impacted by the wonderful and powerful Word of God!
- Ajith Fernando
National Director
Youth for Christ


"I'm enthusiastic about the TNIV for many reasons related to my own training and calling. I studied graduate linguistics and translation theory for two years with Wycliffe Bible Translators (SIL) and served for many years in Asia; I gained a keen appreciation for the importance of a translation done in the "heart language" of those it seeks to reach. Presenlty, I serve in a position where our organization's goal is to empower churches to reach their communities with the gospel of Christ. The TNIV is written in today's language, proper yet flowing. It maintains a high value on accuracy, particularly when using pronouns that reflect the audience intended by the biblical writers. For the past six months, I've used this translation in my personal devotions and have been repeatedly impacted by the wonderful and powerful Word of God!"
- Ron Forseth
Director of Business Development
Outreach, Inc.


"For the last two decades the NIV has been my trusted companion to bring the powerful and profound Word of God to the people I have been given to minister. It has had a great impact on my personal development in Christ. I am excited about the TNIV and the promise it brings to the people of a new century. It is my belief that the improvements and enhancements will draw us all closer to the rich redemptive grace of God as well as call more of us to the Spirit-powered obedience required of a fully devoted follower of Christ. The NIV couldn't have come at a better time. I believe the same is true for the TNIV!"
- Pastor Randy Frazee
Author, The Connecting Church
Pantego Bible Church, Ft. Worth


"As a teaching pastor, I am eager to use the TNIV. Clarity, accuracy, intelligibility and accessibility are key factors in communicating the life-capturing truths of the Bible. The TNIV exhibits these factors and is an excellent resource for pastoral work."
- John W. Frye, D. Min.
Author and Pastor
Bella Vista Church, Rockford, MI


"The only foundation that will prevail is the one built on God's Word. That's why I'm proud to stand with Zondervan, bringing the Word to today's generation. That's why I believe so strongly in Today's New International Version, the TNIV; a new translation that speaks the timeless truth of God's Word in the language of today."
- Peter Furler
Lead Singer
Newsboys


"The Reformers of the 16th century translated the Bible into the vernacular languages of their day so that 'the farm boy at his plow and the milk maid at her pail' could read and understand the Scriptures in their everyday speech. The TNIV stands in this same tradition. I predict the TNIV will have a shaping influence on the English of the future, even as it reflects today's contemporary idiom."
- Timothy George, Th.D.
Executive Editor of Christianity Today
Dean of Beeson Divinity School Samford University


"The NIV took the late twentieth century church by storm. It has been the most readable version of the Bible in English. Today's NIV is even better. I recommend it warmly."
- Rev. Canon Dr. Michael Green
Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall
Oxford University


"I remember how excited I was when my daughter began reading her new Bible. But then one night, as I put her to bed, she asked, 'Daddy, why is the Bible only written to boys?' My heart sank. I tried to explain to her that male pronouns are sometimes used to refer to both men and women. She was utterly perplexed by this. Nowhere in her life experience were male pronouns used to relate to everyone. I've always loved the NIV, and I am very excited about this revision that will allow the NIV to speak to an entirely new generation."
- Rev. Adam Hamilton
Senior Pastor
Church of the Resurrection


"''ve read the entire TNIV New Testament through once, and I'm reading it again, comparing it verse by verse with the NIV. I'm a seminary professor and have pastored more than twenty years, and I think the TNIV is perhaps the best translation out there. It's very readable, but still literal enough that it can be your base Bible or a study Bible. This is Bible translation at its best. I can't wait for the whole Bible to come out! I am a Bible translation connoisseur, and I use just about every translation old and new that's out there. Over the years I've encouraged people to mine the riches of the newer translations. My students agree with me that the TNIV is an outstanding translation in terms of accuracy and readability. It just stands at the top of the class."
- Larry Hart
Professor of Theology Oral Roberts University

""We welcome the arrival of the TNIV. It is a translation that seeks to accurately communicate the Word of God in contemporary English and as such strengthens our mission in reaching college and university students with the Gospel."
- Alec Hill
President
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship


"As someone who is passionate about evangelism, I enthusiastically embrace the TNIV as a translation that faithfully communicates God's word to the next generation of seekers and believers. The TNIV is not only accurate, but incredibly readable. I look forward to using the TNIV for personal study, preaching and evangelism."
- Bill Hybels
Senior Pastor
Willow Creek Community Church


"This is a very good translation made even better by the current revisions. The expertise, theological diversity and evangelical orthodoxy of the revision committee are outstanding. This revision is a milestone in modern translations."
- Allen Johnson, Ph.D.
Professor of New Testament and Ethics
Wheaton Graduate School


"The TNIV is enjoyable to read without sacrificing the original meaning. It makes some notable improvements to the NIV. The strong scholarship and diverse evangelical backgrounds represented in the committee are noteworthy."
- Craig S. Keener, Ph.D.
Professor of New Testament
Eastern Seminary, Philadelphia, PA


"I was very excited to learn of Today's NIV. The English language is constantly changing and it is absolutely crucial that such a talented team of translators is working to keep the Bible so clear and accessible for future generations."
- R. T. Kendall
Minister
Westminster Chapel (1977-2002)


"You are to be commended for bringing the NIV into greater harmony with its stated translation theory by issuing the TNIV... Keep up the good work."
- Allen Kerkeslager, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Theology
Saint Joseph's University, Philadelphia


"The TNIV is a welcome improvement to biblical understanding. Most sensitive and careful expositors have routinely made the adjustments in the language as they read the text aloud or otherwise clarified the meaning from the pulpit. Now the plain meaning is available. To all readers it clarifies ambiguities and cultural oversights. The intention of the text is made clear and inclusive as intended and will hopefully neutralize unnecessary controversy and tension."
- Jay Kesler
Chancellor
Taylor University


"What a shame it would be to lose the wonderful opportunity and openness to Jesus and Christian spirituality that emerging generations are beginning to desire - but only have it shut down due in not being sensitive to how the Scriptures can be communicated in today's post-Christian world. We need a translation of the Bible that stays accurate to truth and meaning, yet also understands today's culture in the words we translate into our English. I cannot tell you how many times I have had to slip in a "..and sisters" to Romans 12:1, or had to answer why does it say "sons of God", and not "sons and daughters (or children) of God" in the Beatitudes. To pastors who primarily work with older people or those with a Judeo-Christian mindset where this is not an issue, they might not realize the importance of this. But anyone truly engaging missionally with post-Christian generations, and is looking into their eyes as they speak and trying to answer their questions about the Bible, will face this issue again and again and again. That is why the TNIV is needed - as it would a horrific shame to allow this opportunity to teach the Scriptures to emerging generations be lost due to pre-conceived notions, pride, or fear that we are watering things down or abusing Scripture when what the TNIV is doing is translating from the inspired Word from one culture into another. We live in a new culture, a post-Christian one, and we should be passionate about having a translation of Scripture which speaks accurately to the emerging culture. If pastors and Christian leaders are serious about engaging and communicating to emerging generations growing up in a post-Christian culture, then we must seriously have a translation of the Bible that accurately and culturally speaks to them."
- Dan Kimball
Pastor Vintage Faith Church
Author, The Emerging Church and Emerging Worship


"I am thrilled with Today's New International Version. The TNIV offers significant improvements in scholarship and in its use of English idiom. Without question, the TNIV is the finest English translation available at the beginning of this new millennium."
- John R. Kohlenberger III
Editor, The Exhaustive Concordance to the Greek New Testament

Christian apologetics should not have to apologize for biblical scholarship and language that don't match today's most faithful possibilities. As a Christian writer and personal evangelist, I welcome the TNIV as a gift to today's seekers."
- Diane Komp, M.D.
Author, A Window to Heaven

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"I am very pleased to hear that the TNIV will seek to translate the ancient languages of the Bible into the ever-changing language of today's readers."
- Paul E. Koptak, Ph.D.
Paul and Bernice Brandel Professor of Communication and Biblical Interpretation
North Park Theological Seminary, Chicago


"I remember distinctly the summer I got my first NIV—I couldn't put it down. Even though I loved the King James Version I'd been brought up with, I spent most of my summer break reading the NIV just for the fun of it because it spoke my language! But that was 24 years ago and language changes quickly in these heady postmodern days. Congratulations to the TNIV translators who have continued the tradition of the New Testament writers and Martin Luther by producing a translation of the Holy Scriptures in the normal vocabulary of everyday people. Nothing must stand in the way of getting the Word of God out to the people in a way they can understand. I'm so impressed and inspired by the tenacious work of the TNIV team to provide us with a new translation which is sensitive to our culture without losing any of the ancient heritage of God's Word."
- Rob Lacey
Actor, Broadcaster, and Author of The Word on the Street

"As a professional Christian communicator working full-time in evangelical publishing for the past 30 years, the NIV has been my personally preferred translation since it came out. I have always appreciated and admired it's literary style as much as I've trusted the solid orthodox scholarship behind it. I feel every bit as excited and confident about using the TNIV in the years to come."
- Gregg Lewis
Christian Author and Writer

"I love the NIV and look forward to using the TNIV now that it's here. It updates the language so I don't have to. For years I would add sisters to the greetings and instructions to the church that before just said brothers. All the girls in youth ministries all over the country will know that Gods word is speaking to them as well."
- Tic Long
President of Events
Youth Specialties


"The TNIV is an exciting translation for the present time. It is written in contemporary English and is completely accurate to the original languages."
- Tremper Longman III, Ph.D.
Robert H. Gundry Professor of Biblical Studies
Westmont College


"I commend the TNIV. It makes the unchanging truths of God's Word even more accessible to contemporary readers. It makes a good translation even better."
- Martin H. Manser
Reference Book Editor and Bible Scholar

"Most women with whom I work care deeply about Scripture and about their obedience to God's Word. Because so many women do take the Scriptures seriously, it is refreshing to have the TNIV in hand, removing some misleading gendered translations of biblical texts governing our service to Jesus Christ. I will use the TNIV in my teaching and writing because it more accurately reflects the original texts in dynamic equivalence."
- Alice Mathews, Ph.D.
Lois W. Bennet Distinguished Associate Professor of Educational Ministries and Women's Ministries
Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, South Hamilton


"I believe with all my heart that the TNIV is God honoring and will have a positive impact for His kingdom because it will help people have a better understanding of His Word."
- David J. McCullough
Pastor
Agape Fellowship Church, Nashville


"I love how the TNIV is in everyday English. It is down to earth and easily accessible to anyone longing to know what God has spoken through the Scriptures."
- Erwin McManus
Pastor
Mosaic


"The TNIV is not 'gender sensitive,' it is 'gender accurate!' It simply says it like God said it. I'm ready to switch over!"
- Dr. David W. Miller
Senior Pastor
The Church at Rocky Peak


The TNIV is a timely release. Taking ancient languages in an ancient context and bringing out their meaning for today is a tough business, and the TNIV accurately renders the subject matter of the Scriptures to a 21st century audience. I certainly appreciate its preparation and release, and I hope to see it used widely in churches across the English-speaking world.
- Cody Moore
West Side Christian Church, Denver (Senior Pastor) Dallas Christian College (Adjunct Faculty)

"From here on, this is my version of choice. The translation is faithful, readable to our contemporary ears—and yet it retains the dignity of classical translations."
- Richard Mouw, Ph.D.
President
Fuller Theological Seminary


"This new translation is the most accurate ever. It is more faithful to the actual Greek text than any of the standard translations."
- Terry C. Muck, Ph.D.
Professor of Mission and World Religions
Asbury Theological Seminary


"You are most welcome to put me on your list of endorsers. We have lived in Europe for 30 years now and know well the issues of translation and learning languages. In part, it is this experience that has given us insight into truths about gender that we never saw in traditional English translations. Recently there have been several inclusive translations, but we were glad to see the NIV finally break the barrier in the US. As we have read of the various battles from our vantage point they appear to have been ill-informed and trivial at times, simply ignoring basic rules of translation. My training at Dallas Theological Seminary taught me to appreciate the necessity of the original languages, my language experience in Europe has taught me the value of relevant and timely translation."
- Dr. Edward G. Murray
Institute for Biblical and Theological Studies
Campus Crusade for Christ, Eastern Europe and Russia


"My appreciation for Today's New International Version has increased throughout use of it in ministry around the world. We've found that communicating God's Word requires sensitivity to two dominant global realities: the growth of English as the common language of commerce; and the liberation of women from politically oppressive regimes. My wife and I experienced both of these realities during a recent English-teaching mission with university students in Northern Afghanistan. Once denied access to education by the Taliban, Afghan girls and women are now free to pursue their educational dreams. In this context, Today's New International Version, with its accuracy in all matters, including matters of gender, has opened the door to God's Word in English for these young women as no other translation can.

"We have seen the same response in other countries. I thank God for the superb evangelical translation team that has made this possible. Today's New International Version is a great gift to the worldwide mission of the Body of Christ for the 21st century."

- Dr. Norm Nelson
President
Life At Its Best Ministry


"I find less that needs improving in the TNIV than in other English versions. In my opinion, it stands as one of the best translations, if not the best, available today. I welcome its publication and look forward to further editions."
- Curt Niccum, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Bible
Oklahoma Christian University


"As one of the more than one hundred scholars who labored to produce the original NIV, and one who strongly advocated the inerrancy of the autographic text of scripture, I would like to indicate my strong approval of the purpose of the TNIV and of its implementation of that purpose. . . . With the changes in the English language and with many women's tendency to read as exclusive passages which are in fact inclusive, the job accomplished here needed to be done."
- Roger Nicole, Ph.D.
Visiting Professor of Theology
Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando


"I trust the TNIV. While the NIV has been my Bible of choice for years, the TNIV updates much of the wording I've found cumbersome or problematic based on our current usage of the English language. I can't wait to recommend this translation to teenagers and youth workers all over the world."
- Mark Oestreicher
President
Youth Specialties


"It is part of the mission of the church to make the scriptures available and accessible to people in our generation. The TNIV does this with accuracy, clarity, sensitivity and beauty. God will use it in great ways."
- John Ortberg
Teaching Pastor
Willow Creek Community Church


"For those of us who believe in the Bible as the authoritative word of God, the new TNIV, with its updated, careful scholarship, including use of gender-accurate language, is a godsend. Only a person who would wish to maintain a nonbiblical cultural bias would not welcome a more accurate translation of God's word."
- Glenn R. Palmberg
President
The Evangelical Covenant Church


"Not all updates of Bible translations succeed at being both faithful and elegant. The TNIV manages to do both. This old friend has added a new sparkle to its familiar sound, and promises to be a favorite for years to come. Kudos to the the translation team and to Zondervan for this bold new update."
- Ben Patterson
Campus Pastor
Westmont College, Santa Barbara


"Surely even the most casual observer must recognize the great changes that have taken place within the English language itself. Such developments have and continue to dictate that the changeless Word of God must nevertheless meet with accuracy, clarity and power the needs of a wide spectrum of groups with differing cultural backgrounds and educational levels. While one can find an occasional point of disagreement with any translation from the original texts, I know the translators and editors of the TNIV to be competent scholars who are concerned for the integrity of God's Word. Their careful work has produced a translation that takes its rightful place beside other versions of the Scriptures that are designed to meet the particular needs of a needy world."
- Dr. Richard D. Patterson
Distinguished Professor of Biblical Studies Emeritus
Liberty University


"The TNIV speaks to the whole church, and does so with grace and truth."
- Rev. Cornelius Plantinga, Jr., Ph.D.
President and Professor of Systematic Theology
Calvin Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids


"If we are to communicate the gospel in today's world we must use today's language. Today's NIV does just that. It provides a clear and accurate translation of the Bible's unchangeable text into the changing language of today's culture—with careful and appropriate use of gender-inclusive language and modern idiom."
- Nick Pollard
Writer and Evangelist

"I was not for the original gender-neutral translation presented by the International Bible Society a few years ago. But with saying that, I do believe that the new translation has taken many "conservative" points of view. Quite frankly, it is the best translation I have seen to reach the next generation of people for Christ. It did not compromise its original language in references to God.

"When I preach to my congregation, I not only preach to my brothers, but also to my sisters. As a graduate of Liberty University and Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary, I recall many times in messages presented by Dr. Falwell, him pausing and saying that a certain reference to the male gender was 'generic' and that it meant 'all people.' The TNIV is a good translation, which includes our brothers and our sisters and is not changing the gender of God at all."

- Pastor Dean Pryor
Senior Pastor
Hagerstown Grace Brethren Church


"The 21st century world is going to demand a Bible translation in which linguistic forms reflect the embrace of God's grace. We can thank God that a group of top biblical scholars, utterly committed to an accurate translation, have gotten out in front of those who would provide theologically or politically biased translations. Thank you TNIV!"
- Bill Robinson
President
Whitworth College, Spokane


"Since the goal of all Bible translation is to faithfully reflect the original Biblical languages in contemporary language usage, I heartily applaud this endeavor that more clearly includes women as well as men in the language of the Bible."
- Doug Ross
President
Evangelical Christian Publishers


"This new Bible translation not only crosses generational barriers but reflects a more contemporary language that everyone can relate to. The TNIV is an accurate and sound translation that will impact generations to come."
- Wayne Schmidt
Pastor
Kentwood Community Church


"I've been reading the TNIV since it's announcement and I really like it. The TNIV clarifies passages that have previously been misunderstood in other translations."
- Richard Schroer
Inspiration House North, Palm Beach Gardens

"The TNIV is a wonderful, important new translation—faithful to the original and understandable to today's generation."
- Ronald J. Sider, Ph.D.
Professor of Theology and Culture Eastern
Baptist Theological Seminary, Philadelphia


"Great and long overdue! This translation is a welcome and necessary improvement and will make access to the Scriptures easier."
- Klyne Snodgrass, Ph.D.
Paul W. Brandel Professor of New Testament Studies
North Park Theological Seminary


"You have managed to capture the scholarship of the NIV and the contemporary language of today. The result is nothing short of awesome! You have done nothing with the timeless message of the Bible but make it even easier to understand. Please know that this is one Southern Baptist pastor that backs the TNIV all the way."
- Dan Southerland
Pastor/Teacher
Flamingo Road Church, Fort Lauderdale


"The TNIV is a welcome improvement on the NIV, which I've used with great profit for many years. It's important to me to have a translation that uses current language while maintaining absolute fidelity to God's word. As a writer I'm very aware of shifts in language, and I've felt for some time that TNIV was needed. It's exactly what I hoped for."
- Tim Stafford
Senior Writer
Christianity Today Magazine
Co-Editor, The Student Bible


"I just received the free copy of the TNIV, for which I had signed up in San Antonio at the Society of Biblical Literature conference last November. My impression: with the TNIV, you have hit a towering home run of McGuire proportions. I don't think I've ever been more positive about a product. For years, I have used the NIV as my primary preaching and teaching Bible. It has always seemed to me to strike the right balance between being readable and being literal. Still, there were places where I felt that the NIV was too compromised, or by seeking readability had missed the point of the Greek/Hebrew text, etc.

In the TNIV, you've managed to fix many of the places where I found the NIV questionable (the section break at Ephesians 5.21, for example.) You've addressed the issue of gender language in a generally inobtrusive and responsible (accurate) way. And you've kept the same balance between being readable and being literal. From my perspective, the TNIV retains everything I loved about the NIV—and fixes the problems."

- Perry Stepp, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Biblical Studies
Kentucky Christian University


"It has never been easy to distinguish between a 'translation' and a 'paraphrase'. Translations tend to go for contemporary scholarship at the expense of contemporary language, whereas paraphrases tend to sacrifice accuracy for relevance. Today's New International Version is highly successful in combining both scholarly accuracy and linguistic relevance."
- John R. W. Stott
Preacher, Evangelist, Author

"The TNIV takes the clearest and most accurate English Bible version—the NIV—and makes it even better. By updating the NIV with reference to textual, linguistic and historical issues, the TNIV represents the cutting edge of contemporary Bible translation."
- Mark Strauss, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of New Testament
Bethel Seminary, San Diego


"As an evangelist committed to communicating the truth, relevancy, and power of the Gospel, I'm thankful to have the TNIV as one more valuable tool in reaching the next generation."
- Lee Strobel
Author
The Case for Christ, Host, Faith Under Fire
Former Willow Creek Teaching Pastor


"For years I have used the NIV for my personal devotion and public teaching. I now welcome Today's International Version. The changes made are small but significant. I commend Today's NIV to you with great confidence."
- Derek Tidball
Principal
London Bible College


"Bible translations need to be updated from time to time because our language changes and because scholarship gains clearer insight into the meaning of the original text. Today's NIV marks a significant advance in accuracy and accessibility. I welcome it with enthusiasm."
- Stephen Travis
Vice-Principal
St John's College, Nottingham


"The TNIV represents an important step in the ongoing effort to help the scriptures speak with power to the present generation. The TNIV will be a great gift to the church, particularly as we seek to reach today's young people with the life-changing message of the gospel."
- J. Ross Wagner, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of New Testament
Princeton Theological Seminary


"The stated goal of the Committee on Bible Translation is to produce a translation that is as faithful to the original text of Scripture and that communicates effectively in our contemporary culture. I believe the translators have done a marvelous job in attaining their goal."

"I am unashamedly a theological conservative and evangelical. I see no hidden agenda in the work of the Committee on Bible Translation. Instead, I see them using the best scholarship to provide a translation that is accurate and effective in communication. The TNIV has little to do with being 'politically correct' or catering to an ideology."

"Therefore, I happily endorse Today's New International Version and will use it in my personal study and preaching."

- Ronald W. Walters
Pastor, Hammond Avenue Brethren Church, Iowa
Former Assistant Professor of Evangelism, Ashland (Ohio) Theological Seminary


"Today's NIV is the natural successor to the NIV as the standard English Bible. It is an elegantly expressed, thoroughly reliable translation that is ideal for personal use, public reading, and preaching."
- Rob Warner
Writer and Pastor
Kairos Church, London


"I have been reading the TNIV New Testament and have been very impressed. I am beginning a series on 1 Corinthians so it was easy to move through Paul's letter and pick up on the changes in the translation. I am very pleased with what I read. I have used the NIV for over 25 years in preaching and teaching and I have consistently had to alter my reading of the text in order to include women and men in the hearing of the Word of God. For more than a generation masculine pronouns have stood exclusively for males in the mind of many. To pretend otherwise has had the unfortunate effect of alienating those who have grown up with these changes. If the New Testament was not written to be read exclusively by males, why would anyone want to perpetuate such a misleading notion?

"TNIV seeks to present a true translation of the original languages in a way that conveys the intent of the biblical writers. I believe TNIV's sensitivity to the original biblical message coupled with sensitivity to the dynamic of the English language is a major success and, from my perspective, long overdue. To use gender-exclusive language in preaching the Word of God is to mistranslate the original biblical text and to seriously alter the meaning. I am grateful for the prayerful expertise and the Christ-honoring labor that has gone into the New Testament and look forward to the completion of the whole Bible. May the Lord bless your efforts in this very important project."

- Dr. Douglas D. Webster
Senior Pastor
First Presbyterian Church, San Diego


"It's an awesome challenge to be a writer and speaker in today's world and to seek to build bridges and not walls. I'm not referring to being 'politically correct' but to showing intelligent Christian courtesy and sensitivity regarding gender language. The TNIV is a tool that can help me be more 'gender precise' with my listeners and readers and therefore be a more effective bridge builder."
- Warren Wiersbe
Pastor and Bible Teacher

I am now using the TNIV on a daily basis and finding it excellent. I will be warmly recommending it and give thanks to God for those who have worked hard to produce it. It is especially good to have gender-inclusive language.
- The Right Reverend Dr. John Wilson
Vicar General and Bishop of the Southern Region
Anglican Diocese of Melbourne, Australia


"In 1999 I reviewed Don Carson's book, The Inclusive Language Debate, for the Stone-Campbell Journal. Unfortunately, at the time I could not get a copy of the (then) NIVI because none was available. Recently, however, I was delighted to receive an examination copy of the TNIV and have found this translation to be true to the sound translation theory articulated by Carson, a very helpful step forward in real translation for the times. The TNIV is more than another attempt to show us how to render gender. It is a fresh acknowledgement that the entire English language continues to change, and with it, thoughtful translation of its greatest treasure, the Bible."
- Neal Windham
Associate Dean of Bible & Theology
Lincoln Christian College


"As the editor of the Student Bible, I've spent thousands of hours trying to help readers understand the NIV Bible. I'm thrilled to hear about the TNIV and its ability to help add clarity and impact to the study of God's Word."
- Philip Yancey
Author

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