Madkins007

For that matter, the NRSV is considered pretty 'out there' by most fundies. In fact, many fundies will automatically downplay anything other than the KJV. The God's Word and New Living are 'accepted' in the sense that they will generally not fight them too hard (when being read from, etc.), but they won't like it. The 'gender inclusive' language of the NRSV will trigger some knee-jerk responses.

Even as a semi-fundy myself, I enjoy using non-KJV heritage versions when talking to some of my 'semi-brethern'. It confuses the heck out of them cuz they've never heard of the Douay or Jerusalem versions before (mostly used by Catholics and a few other groups). These versions come from a French tradition that sorta runs parallel to the English KJV.

Legion

Yeah, good point. An NRSV is not going to get you anywhere with a fundy group either. lol Mentioning the Jesus Seminar (if they are educated enough to know what that is) will cause them to tune you out faster than anything though.

HaysooChreesto!

Thank you very much for your responses. One other thing I'd like to know about are companion books. I think it would be helpful to tackle this personal project if I had a companion type book for whatever plain English Bible I eventually decide on.
I understand that many bibles have excellent annotations and whatnot but in your collective experiences, is that enough to study with?
All responses are much appreciated. Thanks.

Peter Kirby

Don't overlook the Recommended Reading & Reference.

The Oxford Bible Commentary is a very good investment.

best,
Peter Kirby

Legion

No, annotations are not enough, but as far as a Bible goes, an annotated one is a great start. As far as one-volume commentaries, Peter recommended the Oxford Bible Commentary which is very good, so is the HarperCollins Bible Commentary.