Reading From The KJV

A couple nights ago, for my daily bible reading, instead of using one of the translations I usually use (ESV, NIV or NASB) I decided that I would get out my King James Bible (Authorized Version to my British friends). Although it is not the Bible with which I grew up or which my church used when I was younger, I have always had a deep love for this translation of God's Word. However, I have neglected it for the past few months.

Anyway, the other night, I read through almost the entire book of Romans in the KJV. Not only did I read it, but even though I was by myself, I read it aloud. I'm not particularly sure why I did so, but I did. These things made for one of the greatest Bible reading experiences I have ever had. First and foremost, the message of Romans is absolutely beautiful. Luther says in his preface to this marvelous epistle:

It is purest Gospel. It is well worth a Christian's while not only to memorize it word for word but also to occupy himself with it daily, as though it were the daily bread of the soul. It is impossible to read or to meditate on this letter too much or too well. The more one deals with it, the more precious it becomes
and the better it tastes.

This letter of Paul's always seems to uplift me more than any other. Reading from the KJV only helped to reinforce the message. Many people say that the KJV is too difficult to understand for modern readers and does not have too much use today. I agree that the KJV is more challenging to read than other translations, but this is an advantage. The KJV forces you to concentrate more on the meaning of what is being said. It will cause one to think more about what is being said. It stimulates the mind.

Reading aloud serves the same purpose. The reader must clearly read each and every word. It becomes impossible to skim or skip parts of the text. Each must be presented as equal. And then not only are the words being processed visually, but you hear them as well, giving them even more of a chance to sink in.

Lastly, albeit relatively unimportant, the KJV is an absolute Joy to read. The language is gorgeous and as fit a vessel as exists for the Word of God.

SOLI DEO GLORIA