Why I’m Preaching from the Christian Standard Bible
In the recent weeks, I have begun to preach and teach from the new Christian Standard Bible (CSB). Though I still study from various English translations and the Hebrew and Greek texts, I am very excited to make this switch as I lead FBC Watauga. For the majority of my preaching ministry, I have preached from the New King James (at May FBC) and the New American Standard (at FBC Watauga). Both of these are very good translations and I still use them for study.
Why Change Now?
For the past few years, I have desired to find a version that was easier to read and understand in modern English. Beginning in September, all of our Growth Groups (previously Sunday School classes) will begin to use The Gospel Project.
Unity
The Gospel Project will bring unity throughout our church family providing better opportunities for families and friends to discuss what they are learning. The Gospel Project is published using two very good bible translations: the Christian Standard Bible (CSB) and the English Standard Version (ESV). So this was a natural time for me to make the switch to one of these modern English versions bringing UNITY in the version of the bible that we use throughout our church family.
Decision Time
I spent a couple weeks studying the CSB and the ESV to learn as much as I could about the quality of these translations. I contacted Hebrew and Greek experts at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary for their input. For several reasons, I have chosen to begin using the Christian Standard Bible (CSB) as my primary preaching and teaching bible.
Availability
The CSB is readily available in many formats. The CSB has its own FREE app in both iPhone/iPad and Android versions. Additionally, all of the major bible apps also have the CSB available. For those who prefer print copies, Lifeway Christian Stores provide a wide variety of formats from very inexpensive to the highest quality bindings. The CSB Study Bible is highly recommended and especially helpful. Many of the print versions are on sale for a significant discount (40% off) at Lifeway stores and online as this new version is in the introductory stage.
Helpful Links
In the coming days, I plan to write further on the specific reasons I have chosen to use the CSB. Until then I have provided a few helpful resources for you to do a little investigation on your own.