Monday, March 29, 2021

ESV vs NIV (1 John 2:2)

 (1 John 2:2)"He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world." (ESV) 

(1 John 2:2)"He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world." (NIV) 

The major difference between these two translations in this verse is one word or phrase.  The ESV has "propitiation" while the NIV has "atoning sacrifice."  The phrase "atoning sacrifice" has the meaning to make amends, to pay for sins.  The term "propitiation" has a fuller meaning.  It means the payment for sins, but also includes turning away the wrath of God and turning it to favor.  

The NIV rendering of "atoning sacrifice" does not provide the reader with the full meaning. While the ESV rendering of "propitiation" does provide the full meaning for the reader.  Christ is the propitiation for our sins, for all believers in the whole world.  Our sins incur the wrath of a holy God.  The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross turns away the wrath of God from us and turns it to favor for us.  Because God's wrath has been propitiated or satisfied we can now have forgiveness.  

The more literal translations such as the ESV, NASB, and NKJV all have propitiation.  The less literal translations such as the NIV, CSB, and NLT have atoning sacrifice or something similar.     

Monday, March 1, 2021

What do Muslims Believe About The Qur'an?

 Muslims believe that the Qur'an is the Word of Allah.  Qur'an means the recitation while the terms Islam and Muslim refer to submission.  The Qur'an is believed to be perfect and eternal.  

Islam teaches that the Qur'an is a series of revelations given by Allah to Muhammad through the angel Gabriel.  The Qur'an is interpreted through the sayings of Muhammad known as the Hadith.  Muslims believe the Bible has been corrupted and has been superseded by the Qur'an.  

The Qur'an is divided into surahs or chapters and it is shorter than the New Testament.  While translations can be used the Qur'an as the Word of Allah is tied to the Arabic language.  Muslims believe the Qur'an should be placed on the highest shelf in the house and that it is disrespectful to write in it.