Are you not being subjective and arbitrary by choosing the version the suits your beliefs? Why the need to use different versions?
Answer:
Using only one Bible versions in both written and oral discourse seems practical and expedient. This should not pose any problem if and when those who translated the Bible in various languages are completely free of bias or are theologically neutral. Unfortunately, they are not. And this has resulted not only in differences in shades of meaning in some portions or the verse, but also in differences in interpretation of the entire passage.
"All translations involves interpretation. Interpretation, of course, involves the influence of theology; and as all translation involves interpretation, so all translations involves theology. ...Translators cannot avoid totally the necessity of making the interpretative decisions, nor can they avoid completely the influence of personal views of truth on their work. Translation is hermeneutically neutral and translators are not theologically neutral."
For these reasons, there are times when it is necessary to choose the version that is not only easier to comprehend, but most of all renders precise meaning- thus,the need to use more than one version of the Bible.
How do we determine which particular version of the Bible to use? Apostle Paul taught the guiding principle when it comes to the teachings written in the Holy Scriptures:
"But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things from God.
"These things we also speak, not in words which man's wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual" (I Cor. 2:10,13,NKJV).
Spiritual truths must be compared with spiritual truths, and in doing so, there must be no contradictions. Hence, if a term or phrase in a particular version contradicts the true doctrine, then there is an error in translation. Therefore, it behooves us to use a version that does not contradict the biblical truth.
However, an important thing must be understood when it comes to comparing spiritual truths with spiritual truths.A preacher of the gospel must be sent duly commissioned by God for him to receive the Holy Spirit and be able to correctly compare spiritual truths from spiritual things. Hence, not everyone can rightfully explain the contents of the Bible.. Apostle Paul said, "And how shall they preached unless they are sent?..." (Rom 10:15,Ibid).
John the Baptist also taught the importance of being sent by God:
"The one whom God has sent speaks God's words, because God gives him the the fullness of his Spirit."(Jn 3:34, TEV)
God gave the knowledge of His words only to His messengers.. They are the ones entrusted with the ministry and the message of reconciliation (II Cor. 5:18-20), and thus they are the ones who can rightfully teach the contents of the Holy Scriptures. People should listen to their preaching to be able to know and understand the will of God expressed in His Holy Book.
source: God's Message, June 2004,p. 3-4
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