What versions of the Bible do Harvest Bible Chapels use?
Harvest Bible Chapels ordinarily preach and teach from either the English Standard Version (ESV) or the New American Standard Bible (NASB). The New King James Version (NKJV) also is commended. The reason is simple: We believe that the very words of Scripture in the original languages of Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek are inspired by God. Therefore, the elders of Harvest Bible Chapels believe that the Bible versions which translate God's Word most literally into modern English should be preferred. Using more literal translations also will ensure that our congregations can more easily follow the Bible preaching during the weekend services as well as study the Scriptures from similar translations. That is why the NASB, NKJV and ESV are the selected versions.
In selecting these versions, Harvest is not condemning other popular translations. We believe the NASB, NKJV and ESV to be superior because they most accurately translate the original languages in which the Scriptures were written. We are aware that evangelical scholars have pursued a number of less literal approaches to Bible translation. There are settings where the use of dynamic equivalent translations or paraphrases may be appropriate. Harvest wishes to be gracious and does not intend to communicate a harsh attitude toward those who read versions other than those preferred at Harvest. We do not regard other brothers and sisters with contempt because they choose to read translations such as the New International Version (NIV) or the New Living Translation (NLT) or other translations. We also do not want to cause our brothers or sisters to stumble by discouraging them from reading other versions.
"Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God; for it is written, 'As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.' So then each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother."
(Romans 14:10-13)