GNB Good News Bible

NKJV New King James

The New King James Version (NKJV or NKJ) is a modern translation of the Bible that was commissioned in 1975 by Thomas Nelson Publishers. 130 respected Bible scholars, church leaders, and lay Christians worked for seven years to update the vocabulary and grammar of the King James Version. They created a completely new, modern translation of Scripture, yet one that retains the historic dignity, purity and stylistic beauty of the original 1611 text.

With unyielding faithfulness to the original Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic texts, the translators have applied the most recent research in archaeology, linguistics, and textual studies to their work, resulting in a literal, word for word translation that remains a popular choice with many churches. 

Sample verse

But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? (1 John 3:17)

GNB Good News Bible

The Good News Bible (GNB) has become established as one of the UK's most popular Bible because it uses plain, everyday language to give readers of all ages the clearest understanding of the Bible. With an emphasis on the meaning of the text it is particularly popular with schools, Sunday Schools, young people, and people with English as a second language. It is a favourite all over the English speaking world, and among all ages, making it perfect for all-age services.

Parts of the New Testament were used in the Billy Graham crusades, as well as other evangelistic campaigns, thanks to the GNB's emphasis on meaning which makes it a favourite for those involved with evangelism.

Through the plain language, the Bible's message is made easily accessible to everyone, and according to recent research it is the preferred translation of those who do not read the Bible. Most editions include the iconic line drawings by Swiss artist Annie Vallotton.

The New Testament was first published as ‘Good News for Modern Man’ by the American Bible Society in 1966, and then the whole Bible was printed as Today's English Version (TEV) in 1976. In the USA it is now called the Good News Translation (GNT).

The GNB comes in many editions published by Bible Society and HarperCollins, including most recently a Sports Edition in the year of the 2012 Olympics. It was anglicised for the British market by the British and Foreign Bible Society.

Sample verse

Rich people who see a brother or sister in need, yet close their hearts against them, cannot claim that they love God. (1 John 3.17)