« | Psalm 115 | » |
1 To you alone, O LORD, to you alone, and not to us, must glory be given because of your constant love and faithfulness.
2 Why should the nations ask us, "Where is your God?"
3 Our God is in heaven; he does whatever he wishes.
4 Their gods are made of silver and gold, formed by human hands.
5 They have mouths, but cannot speak, and eyes, but cannot see.
6 They have ears, but cannot hear, and noses, but cannot smell.
7 They have hands, but cannot feel, and feet, but cannot walk; they cannot make a sound.
8 May all who made them and who trust in them become like the idols they have made.
9 Trust in the LORD, you people of Israel. He helps you and protects you.
10 Trust in the LORD, you priests of God. He helps you and protects you.
11 Trust in the LORD, all you that worship him. He helps you and protects you.
12 The LORD remembers us and will bless us; he will bless the people of Israel and all the priests of God.
13 He will bless everyone who honors him, the great and the small alike.
14 May the LORD give you children--- you and your descendants!
15 May you be blessed by the LORD, who made heaven and earth!
16 Heaven belongs to the LORD alone, but he gave the earth to us humans.
17 The LORD is not praised by the dead, by any who go down to the land of silence.
18 But we, the living, will give thanks to him now and forever. Praise the LORD!
The Good News Bible (GNB)
The Good News Bible (GNB), also known as the Good News Translation (GNT) in the United States, is an English translation of the Bible that prioritizes readability and accessibility for a diverse audience. First published in 1966 by the American Bible Society, the GNB was originally designed as a translation for people with limited English proficiency, including non-native speakers and those with lower literacy levels. Its straightforward and contemporary language makes it particularly effective for use in educational settings, churches, and personal study.
One of the hallmark features of the Good News Bible is its dynamic equivalence translation philosophy, which focuses on conveying the thought and meaning of the original texts rather than adhering strictly to a word-for-word approach. This allows the translators to use idiomatic expressions and familiar language that resonate with modern readers. The GNB aims to present the Bible in a way that is relatable and engaging, making it easier for readers to connect with the biblical stories and teachings without getting bogged down by archaic language or complex theological terminology.
In addition to its clear language, the Good News Bible includes helpful illustrations, maps, and notes that enhance the reader’s understanding of the text. The translation is structured to facilitate comprehension, often breaking up longer passages into shorter paragraphs and sections. This visual organization aids readers in navigating the biblical narrative and understanding the context of various stories and teachings. The GNB also includes helpful footnotes that provide additional information and insights into specific verses, making it a valuable resource for study and reflection.
Despite its strengths, the Good News Bible has faced criticism from some scholars and traditionalists who prefer more literal translations. Critics argue that the dynamic equivalence approach can lead to a loss of nuance and depth present in the original languages. Additionally, some readers express concern that the GNB’s simplified language may not adequately convey the richness of the biblical text. However, the Good News Bible remains a widely used and appreciated translation, particularly for its commitment to making the scriptures accessible to all, allowing readers from various backgrounds to engage with and understand the timeless messages of the Bible.