I love this Message Bible translation of the chapter of John. The modern writing style does away with the ancient wording which can sometimes cause confusion and misunderstanding of what Jesus was trying to say. Reading this version is refreshing and left me feeling fired up about the Word.
The convenient size makes these small books perfect stocking stuffers, inserts in birthday, Christmas or Easter holiday greeting cards, as well as give-aways for friends and classmates at church, Youth Group and Sunday school.
Of this translation, U2's lead singer Bono says: "There's a translation of Scriptures that this guy Eugene Peterson has undertaken. It has been a great strength to me. He's a poet and a scholar, and he's brought the text back to the tone in which the books were written."
Recording artist and author Rebecca St. James adds: "There is so much that is fake about our society. My generation is craving something that is real, honest and true. The Message is straight up! It's modern, relevant and direct."
Some of my favorite excerpts from Jesus in this translation include:
"You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you'll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These scriptures are all about me! And here I am, standing right before you, and you aren't willing to receive from me the life you say you want."
"I'm not interested in crowd approval. And do you know why? Because I know you and your crowds. I know that love, especially God's love, is not on your working agenda. I came with the authority of my Father, and you either dismiss me or avoid me. If another came, acting self-important, you would welcome him with open arms. How do you expect to get anywhere with God when you spend all your time jockeying for position with each other, ranking your rivals and ignoring God?"
"But I also know that you are trying to kill me because my message hasn't yet penetrated your thick skulls."
"Why can't you understand one word I say? Here's why: You can't handle it."
"I came so that they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of."
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