Notable Bible Translation Differences
Not all Bible translations say the same thing. Some differences are minor word choices, but others involve entire verses being added, removed, or significantly changed.
This page highlights some of the most significant and commonly discussed differences between Bible translations, particularly between the King James Version (KJV) and modern translations like the NIV.
Verses Omitted in Modern Translations
Several verses found in the KJV are completely absent from many modern translations, typically appearing only as a footnote or being omitted entirely.
Acts 8:37
The Ethiopian eunuch's confession of faith before baptism.
"And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God."
(Verse omitted)
Matthew 18:11
"For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost."
"For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost."
(Verse omitted)
Significantly Shortened Verses
1 John 5:7 (The Comma Johanneum)
One of the most debated verses regarding the Trinity.
"For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one."
"For there are three that testify:"
Romans 8:1
The ending phrase about walking after the Spirit.
"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit."
"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,"
Key Word Changes
Colossians 1:14 - "Through His Blood"
Reference to redemption through Christ's blood.
"In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:"
"in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins."
John 3:16 - "Only Begotten"
The most famous verse in the Bible.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son..."
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son..."
Translation Comparison Guides
Explore More Differences
Use our interactive comparison tool to explore differences between any two translations, book by book, chapter by chapter.
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