Customer Reviews

NIV/The Message® Parallel Bible

5 star:		(25)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I tend to use the NIV due to its good and accurate translation overall, and I like The Message paraphrase because it is written by a working pastor for the everyday person who does not talk like someone writing a dissertation or government regulation. Up to now, if I saw a passage in the NIV and wanted to see Eugene Peterson's translation of that passage in The Message, I had to look that up in The Message Bible which took a lot of time that made the task less than efficient. Not any more. With this Bible, you can look at either the NIV or The Message verse or passage, and then look in the other column to see how the other version reads. Often I look at the NIV column to get the faithful and accurate but not always simple translation, and then at The Message translation to see how the verse or passage might likely read in today's conversational wording.

And for everyday Bible reading where you are reading for enjoyment and enlightenment, it is hard to beat The Message for its contemporary and "street-wise" use of the English language, even if it is not a word-for-word translation of the ancient languages. It is almost as if you are reading the NIV for its accurate and faithful translation of the ancient texts, and are using The Message column to act as a kind of commentary or contemporary view of each passage.

Each Bible translation has its own merits and qualities, as well as drawbacks. Having both translations right there on the same page defintely makes understanding the concept or thought being expressed on each page much easier and more enjoyable than either translation alone. It truly is like two Bibles in one.

The layout of the pages and format is clean and crisp, the typefaces are easy to read (though typically sized for a work of this magnitude), and the parallel aspect of the verses is excellent. For me personally, this Bible is a winner, and will be among the first I consult when looking up a verse or just reading God's Word for enjoyment and inspiration. Folks who are fans of both the NIV and The Message versions will find this book essential and exciting, as well as a huge time and frustration saver!

I didn't think I really needed a parallel bible. I thought if I want to see what another translation says, I will just pick up my other bible. However, now that I have a parallel I love it! I quickly scan between the two translations when normally I would think it was too much effort to dig through my other bible. Now I have both translations at my fingertips. I would encourage you to get a parallel if you are thinking about it. you don't realize how useful it can be until you get one.

I love the product...this version of the Bible is simple to follow and makes reading the Bible so much more enjoyable. I encourage every person that is "testing the waters" in searching for the Bible that is right for them to search no further... THIS is the Bible for you.

I have always loved the clarity of The Message and frequently pulled it out to help me understand something I was reading in the NIV. It is so much better to have the two side by side.

I've always had my doubts on The Message version due to its seemingly careless and unrestricted translation of the texts. But when paralleled with the more trusted (though definitely not perfect) NIV translation, I at least have something to fall back on if I ever doubted some of the phrasing in The Message. Together, it becomes a refreshing read while still feeling backed up by the more reliable NIV.

Although generally a good compilation, there are a couple things that I would've liked to see: the red color on Jesus' spoken texts (for at least in the NIV), and perhaps a more distinguishable font between the two translations (as I read one translation, I would accidentally jump to the other one when I turn the page).

This is a great bible to use my only problem, there wasn't a ribbon marker as the desription states.This bible gives a clear understanding of the meaning and terms by paralleling side by side.

I had attended a Bible class where a fellow student shared this Bible. Couldn't wait to purchase one on Amazon where the price was right. This is the best of two great translations/paraphrases. The Message is easier to read when the verses are aligned with those of the NIV.

This is a wonderful way of finding better understanding of the bible. The language is more familiar everyday language than the KIV or even the NIV, but having the NIV to cross reference is terrific! It has only taken 2000 years to come up with the perfect bible for me!!

I bought this bible for my 12-year-old son - having the NIV version side-by-side with the Message means he gets familiar with the actual bible verses as well as what they really mean. I have already borrowed it! =o) I am very pleased with this purchase!

NIV and the Message on the same page. Wow! What a delight and blessing. Not a "study" bible, but for reading scripture and comparing translations perfect! Print size is very reasonable. I'm 59, and with the help of a standard pair of reading glasses it's no problem. So, just enjoy. Remember, it's all about love, and loving your neighbor FULFILLS the law! Isn't that amazing. Created in love, and meant to be lovers just as Jesus himself loved.