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The Passion Translation New Testament: With Psalms, Proverbs and Song of Songs
Encounter the Heart of God
The Passion Translation® is a new, heart-level Bible translation that expresses God’s fiery heart of love, merging the emotion and life-changing truth of God’s Word.
God longs to have his Word expressed in every language in a way that unlocks the passion of his heart. The goal of this translation is to trigger inside every reader an overwhelming response to the truth of the Bible, unfolding the deep mysteries of the Scriptures in the love language of God.
If you’re hungry for God and want to know him on a deeper level, The Passion Translation will help you encounter God’s heart and discover what he has for your life.
Bible features
•In-depth footnotes with insightful study notes, commentary, word studies, cross references, and alternate translations
•Extensive introductions and outlines for each book
•Traditional two-column format
•Rich, contemporary font for Bible text
“All you thirsty ones, come to me! Come to me and drink! Believe in me so that rivers of living water will burst out from within you, flowing from your innermost being just like the Scripture says!” John 7:37-38
Every morning I lay out the pieces of my life on the altar and wait for your fire to fall upon my heart. Psalm 5:3
I continue to pray for your love to grow and increase more and more until it overflows, bringing you into the rich revelation of spiritual insight in all things. And with this revelation you will come to know God fully as he imparts to you the deepest understanding of his ways. Philippians 1:9
The Passion Translation® is a new, heart-level Bible translation that expresses God’s fiery heart of love, merging the emotion and life-changing truth of God’s Word.
God longs to have his Word expressed in every language in a way that unlocks the passion of his heart. The goal of this translation is to trigger inside every reader an overwhelming response to the truth of the Bible, unfolding the deep mysteries of the Scriptures in the love language of God.
If you’re hungry for God and want to know him on a deeper level, The Passion Translation will help you encounter God’s heart and discover what he has for your life.
Bible features
•In-depth footnotes with insightful study notes, commentary, word studies, cross references, and alternate translations
•Extensive introductions and outlines for each book
•Traditional two-column format
•Rich, contemporary font for Bible text
“All you thirsty ones, come to me! Come to me and drink! Believe in me so that rivers of living water will burst out from within you, flowing from your innermost being just like the Scripture says!” John 7:37-38
Every morning I lay out the pieces of my life on the altar and wait for your fire to fall upon my heart. Psalm 5:3
I continue to pray for your love to grow and increase more and more until it overflows, bringing you into the rich revelation of spiritual insight in all things. And with this revelation you will come to know God fully as he imparts to you the deepest understanding of his ways. Philippians 1:9
1941 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
January 18, 2026
As a fan of Textual Criticism, and as a fan of Bible translations, I cannot recommend this particular “translation.” Brian Simmons may have had good intentions when he started working on TPT, however, it’s not really a translation, it’s more of a paraphrase—with additional comments that are not in italics—from a hyper-charismatic perspective. One might go so far as to call it sectarian. There’s so much added to the text that isn’t there in the original Greek text, which is extremely concerning.
TPT has become popular recently because famous and influential figures in the charismatic movement such as Bill Johnson, Bobbie Houston, John & Lisa Bevere, Heidi Baker, Banning Liebscher, and Ché Ahn endorse it (the entire list of endorsements can be found on TPT's website). But their endorsement isn't a reason why any of their followers should trust this translation.
Here are some comparisons between different translations:
1) LXX (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, the Septuagint) - Around 70 Jewish scholars worked on the translation.
2) King James Version (KJV) - Around 47 Bible scholars worked on the translation.
3) New International Version (NIV) - 15 Bible scholars worked on the translation.
4) New American Standard (NASB) - Over 20 scholars worked on the translation.
5) The Passion Translation (TPT) - One translator. Brian Simmons.
Translations such as the LXX, KJV, NIV, and NASB have involved manly scholars from diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and denominations, whereas TPT was translated by one man. One of the reasons why multiple scholars worked on previous translations is so that the translation is protected from bias, and since TPT had one translator, that protection is no longer there.
And unlike others who worked on Bible translations, Brian Simmons doesn't have any academic credentials in Biblical languages and textual criticism, which adds to the concern.
Furthermore, Simmons used Aramaic manuscripts, which were translations of the original Greek text into Aramaic, to translate some of the verses in TPT. It baffles me why anyone serious about translating what the Scripture originally said would use a translation of the Greek to translate it into English? That doesn’t make any sense.
Here are a few examples of how different TPT is to a word-for-word translation like the ESV:
1)
Galatians 2:20 (ESV)
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20 (TPT)
My old identity has been co-crucified with Messiah and no longer lives; for the nails of his cross crucified me with him. And now the essence of this new life is no longer mine, for the Anointed One lives his life through me—we live in union as one! My new life is empowered by the faith of the Son of God who loves me so much that he gave himself for me, and dispenses his life into mine!
2)
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (TPT)
Every Scripture has been written by the Holy Spirit, the breath of God. It will empower you by its instruction and correction, giving you the strength to take the right direction and lead you deeper into the path of godliness. Then you will be God’s servant, fully mature and perfectly prepared to fulfill any assignment God gives you.
3)
Psalm 1:1-2 (ESV)
Blessed is the man
who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
Psalm 1:1-2 (TPT)
What delight comes to the one who follows God’s ways!
He won’t walk in step with the wicked,
nor share the sinner’s way,
nor be found sitting in the scorner’s seat.
His pleasure and passion is remaining true to the Word of “I Am,”
meditating day and night in the true revelation of light.
4)
Psalm 5:3 (ESV)
O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice;
in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch.
Psalm 5:3 (TPT)
At each and every sunrise you will hear my voice
as I prepare my sacrifice of prayer to you.
Every morning I lay out the pieces of my life on the altar
and wait for your fire to fall upon my heart.
5)
John 1:1-2 (ESV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.
John 1:1-2 (TPT)
In the very beginning the Living Expression was already there.
And the Living Expression was with God, yet fully God.
They were together—face-to-face, in the very beginning.
6)
Romans 12:6 (ESV)
Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith;
Romans 12:6 (TPT)
God’s marvelous grace imparts to each one of us varying gifts and ministries that are uniquely ours. So if God has given you the grace-gift of prophecy, you must activate your gift by using the proportion of faith you have to prophesy.
7)
1 Corinthians 14:30 (ESV)
If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent.
1 Corinthians 14:30 (TPT)
But if someone receives a revelation while someone else is still speaking, the one speaking should conclude and allow the one with fresh revelation the opportunity to share it.
8)
Colossians 1:21-22 (ESV)
And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him
Colossians 1:21-22 (TPT)
Even though you were once distant from him, living in the shadows of your evil thoughts and actions, he reconnected you back to himself. He released his supernatural peace to you through the sacrifice of his own body as the sin-payment on your behalf so that you would dwell in his presence. And now there is nothing between you and Father God, for he sees you as holy, flawless, and restored,
9)
1 Corinthians 14:22 (ESV)
Thus tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers, while prophecy is a sign not for unbelievers but for believers.
1 Corinthians 14:22 (TPT)
So then, tongues are not a sign for believers, but a miracle for unbelievers. Prophecy, on the other hand, is not for unbelievers, but a miracle sign for believers.
10)
Matthew 6:9-13 (ESV)
Pray then like this:
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come, your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
Matthew 6:9-13 (TPT)
Pray like this:
‘Our Father, dwelling in the heavenly realms, may the glory of your name be the center on which our lives turn.
Manifest your kingdom realm, and cause your every purpose to be fulfilled on earth,
just as it is fulfilled in heaven.
We acknowledge you as our Provider of all we need each day.
Forgive us the wrongs we have done as we ourselves release forgiveness to those who have wronged us.
Rescue us every time we face tribulation and set us free from evil. For you are the King who rules with power and glory forever. Amen.’
So, in conclusion, stay away from TPT, there are plenty of other translations to choose from that are more reliable and faithful to the original text. I would recommend the ESV, NASB, NIV, and NET. The translations that I have mentioned have been put together by fantastic scholars. For example, Daniel Wallace worked on the NIV, and Wallace is one of the most renowned Textual Critiques we have today.
Additionally, here are some other critiques of TPT by apologists and scholars.
A critique of TPT by Mike Winger - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvlID....
A critique of TPT by Alisa Childers - https://www.alisachilders.com/blog/he....
A critique of TPT by GotQuestions.org - https://www.gotquestions.org/Passion-....
A critique of TPT by TheGospelCoalition.org - https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/th....
Thank you for reading this!
God bless you :)
TPT has become popular recently because famous and influential figures in the charismatic movement such as Bill Johnson, Bobbie Houston, John & Lisa Bevere, Heidi Baker, Banning Liebscher, and Ché Ahn endorse it (the entire list of endorsements can be found on TPT's website). But their endorsement isn't a reason why any of their followers should trust this translation.
Here are some comparisons between different translations:
1) LXX (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, the Septuagint) - Around 70 Jewish scholars worked on the translation.
2) King James Version (KJV) - Around 47 Bible scholars worked on the translation.
3) New International Version (NIV) - 15 Bible scholars worked on the translation.
4) New American Standard (NASB) - Over 20 scholars worked on the translation.
5) The Passion Translation (TPT) - One translator. Brian Simmons.
Translations such as the LXX, KJV, NIV, and NASB have involved manly scholars from diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and denominations, whereas TPT was translated by one man. One of the reasons why multiple scholars worked on previous translations is so that the translation is protected from bias, and since TPT had one translator, that protection is no longer there.
And unlike others who worked on Bible translations, Brian Simmons doesn't have any academic credentials in Biblical languages and textual criticism, which adds to the concern.
Furthermore, Simmons used Aramaic manuscripts, which were translations of the original Greek text into Aramaic, to translate some of the verses in TPT. It baffles me why anyone serious about translating what the Scripture originally said would use a translation of the Greek to translate it into English? That doesn’t make any sense.
Here are a few examples of how different TPT is to a word-for-word translation like the ESV:
1)
Galatians 2:20 (ESV)
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20 (TPT)
My old identity has been co-crucified with Messiah and no longer lives; for the nails of his cross crucified me with him. And now the essence of this new life is no longer mine, for the Anointed One lives his life through me—we live in union as one! My new life is empowered by the faith of the Son of God who loves me so much that he gave himself for me, and dispenses his life into mine!
2)
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (TPT)
Every Scripture has been written by the Holy Spirit, the breath of God. It will empower you by its instruction and correction, giving you the strength to take the right direction and lead you deeper into the path of godliness. Then you will be God’s servant, fully mature and perfectly prepared to fulfill any assignment God gives you.
3)
Psalm 1:1-2 (ESV)
Blessed is the man
who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
Psalm 1:1-2 (TPT)
What delight comes to the one who follows God’s ways!
He won’t walk in step with the wicked,
nor share the sinner’s way,
nor be found sitting in the scorner’s seat.
His pleasure and passion is remaining true to the Word of “I Am,”
meditating day and night in the true revelation of light.
4)
Psalm 5:3 (ESV)
O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice;
in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch.
Psalm 5:3 (TPT)
At each and every sunrise you will hear my voice
as I prepare my sacrifice of prayer to you.
Every morning I lay out the pieces of my life on the altar
and wait for your fire to fall upon my heart.
5)
John 1:1-2 (ESV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.
John 1:1-2 (TPT)
In the very beginning the Living Expression was already there.
And the Living Expression was with God, yet fully God.
They were together—face-to-face, in the very beginning.
6)
Romans 12:6 (ESV)
Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith;
Romans 12:6 (TPT)
God’s marvelous grace imparts to each one of us varying gifts and ministries that are uniquely ours. So if God has given you the grace-gift of prophecy, you must activate your gift by using the proportion of faith you have to prophesy.
7)
1 Corinthians 14:30 (ESV)
If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent.
1 Corinthians 14:30 (TPT)
But if someone receives a revelation while someone else is still speaking, the one speaking should conclude and allow the one with fresh revelation the opportunity to share it.
8)
Colossians 1:21-22 (ESV)
And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him
Colossians 1:21-22 (TPT)
Even though you were once distant from him, living in the shadows of your evil thoughts and actions, he reconnected you back to himself. He released his supernatural peace to you through the sacrifice of his own body as the sin-payment on your behalf so that you would dwell in his presence. And now there is nothing between you and Father God, for he sees you as holy, flawless, and restored,
9)
1 Corinthians 14:22 (ESV)
Thus tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers, while prophecy is a sign not for unbelievers but for believers.
1 Corinthians 14:22 (TPT)
So then, tongues are not a sign for believers, but a miracle for unbelievers. Prophecy, on the other hand, is not for unbelievers, but a miracle sign for believers.
10)
Matthew 6:9-13 (ESV)
Pray then like this:
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come, your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
Matthew 6:9-13 (TPT)
Pray like this:
‘Our Father, dwelling in the heavenly realms, may the glory of your name be the center on which our lives turn.
Manifest your kingdom realm, and cause your every purpose to be fulfilled on earth,
just as it is fulfilled in heaven.
We acknowledge you as our Provider of all we need each day.
Forgive us the wrongs we have done as we ourselves release forgiveness to those who have wronged us.
Rescue us every time we face tribulation and set us free from evil. For you are the King who rules with power and glory forever. Amen.’
So, in conclusion, stay away from TPT, there are plenty of other translations to choose from that are more reliable and faithful to the original text. I would recommend the ESV, NASB, NIV, and NET. The translations that I have mentioned have been put together by fantastic scholars. For example, Daniel Wallace worked on the NIV, and Wallace is one of the most renowned Textual Critiques we have today.
Additionally, here are some other critiques of TPT by apologists and scholars.
A critique of TPT by Mike Winger - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvlID....
A critique of TPT by Alisa Childers - https://www.alisachilders.com/blog/he....
A critique of TPT by GotQuestions.org - https://www.gotquestions.org/Passion-....
A critique of TPT by TheGospelCoalition.org - https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/th....
Thank you for reading this!
God bless you :)
December 28, 2019
A seriously flawed and deceptive "translation" of Scripture. Imagine if you will that you thought there were certain parts of the Bible you didn't like, or things you thought were missing, or statements in Scripture that needed changing. Brian Simmons has done all three things: he's deleted verses, added verses, and modified meanings to better match what he thinks Scripture should say. A quintessential example of what happens when postmodernism trashes the Bible.
Here's the Abstract of an academic review by Andrew G. Shead on the damage Simmons has leveled against Scripture: "Brian Simmons has made a new translation of the Psalms (and now the whole New Testament) which aims to ‘re-introduce the passion and fire of the Bible to the English reader.’ He achieves this by abandoning all interest in textual accuracy, playing fast and loose with the original languages, and inserting so much new material into the text that it is at least 50% longer than the original. The result is a strongly sectarian translation that no longer counts as Scripture; by masquerading as a Bible it threatens to bind entire churches in thrall to a false god."
You can find the full text of the review at:
https://themelios.thegospelcoalition....
Here's the Abstract of an academic review by Andrew G. Shead on the damage Simmons has leveled against Scripture: "Brian Simmons has made a new translation of the Psalms (and now the whole New Testament) which aims to ‘re-introduce the passion and fire of the Bible to the English reader.’ He achieves this by abandoning all interest in textual accuracy, playing fast and loose with the original languages, and inserting so much new material into the text that it is at least 50% longer than the original. The result is a strongly sectarian translation that no longer counts as Scripture; by masquerading as a Bible it threatens to bind entire churches in thrall to a false god."
You can find the full text of the review at:
https://themelios.thegospelcoalition....
November 10, 2018
This is clearly not a Translation, but a paraphrase. In some respects this paraphrase goes beyond what most people would consider to be appropriate for an English rendering of the Greek. There are definitely places where the translator is wont to insert anti-intellectualism and his own theology.
October 13, 2020
Inaccurate, and purposely misleading. About as bad as it gets.
Read
November 30, 2022After over a year, I have finally finished reading in the Passion. I especially loved Psalms in this version. I cannot call it a translation (even though that is in the title of the book) because it is not. I’d be more likely to call it a paraphrase than direct translation, regardless of what the author says! But it definitely brings beautiful insights to the Bible. I don’t recommend reading the Bible in the Passion only simply because it isn’t a direct translation and interprets a lot of the Bible in more modern terms (though not entirely like the Message). But it is a nice version to study out after having read the Bible in a direct translation or alongside one.
February 11, 2021
For those who may be unfamiliar with the background, TPT has been a highly controversial Bible version for several years now, receiving both effusive endorsements and serious criticisms. On the one hand, Bethel’s Bill Johnson says TPT is “one of the greatest things to happen with Bible translation in my lifetime.” On the other, Andrew Shead, head of Old Testament and Hebrew at Moore Theological College and a member of the NIV Committee on Bible Translation, reviewed part of TPT and went so far in his scathing criticism as to warn, “By masquerading as a Bible it threatens to bind entire churches in thrall to a false god.”
Look up Pastor Mike Winger's research on YouTube and Biblethinker.com for more information. He has interviewed and obtained written reviews from a number of well-respected Bible scholars who carefully evaluated and commented on individual books of TPT.
Look up Pastor Mike Winger's research on YouTube and Biblethinker.com for more information. He has interviewed and obtained written reviews from a number of well-respected Bible scholars who carefully evaluated and commented on individual books of TPT.
December 1, 2020
Andrew Shead is the head of Old Testament and Hebrew at Moore Theological College, Sydney, and is a member of the NIV Committee on Bible Translation.
Abstract from a paper he wrote on the TPT: Brian Simmons has made a new translation of the Psalms (and now the whole New Testament) which aims to ‘re-introduce the passion and fire of the Bible to the English reader.’ He achieves this by abandoning all interest in textual accuracy, playing fast and loose with the original languages, and inserting so much new material into the text that it is at least 50% longer than the original. The result is a strongly sectarian translation that no longer counts as Scripture; by masquerading as a Bible it threatens to bind entire churches in thrall to a false god.
https://youtu.be/2EtXBxAuZ3g
Abstract from a paper he wrote on the TPT: Brian Simmons has made a new translation of the Psalms (and now the whole New Testament) which aims to ‘re-introduce the passion and fire of the Bible to the English reader.’ He achieves this by abandoning all interest in textual accuracy, playing fast and loose with the original languages, and inserting so much new material into the text that it is at least 50% longer than the original. The result is a strongly sectarian translation that no longer counts as Scripture; by masquerading as a Bible it threatens to bind entire churches in thrall to a false god.
https://youtu.be/2EtXBxAuZ3g
December 1, 2020
If I could give it zero stars I would. This is not a faithful translation of the Bible. It was not translated by a committee of experts in the original languages, but rather by a man with no qualifications as a translator.
If you love the Bible stay away from this book as it is a misrepresentation of the true words inspired by the Holy Spirit and recorded by his faithful servants.
If you love the Bible stay away from this book as it is a misrepresentation of the true words inspired by the Holy Spirit and recorded by his faithful servants.
December 1, 2020
This is not a translation. This book should be avoided unless you are just wanting something to scratch your itchy ears. The path is narrow and few will find it. You will find the wide path with this book. This author is playing fast and loose with the scriptures and is playing a very dangerous game. Avoid it as if your eternity depends on it...because it does.
May 9, 2018
Great Translation
I love this translation. It just ignites my heart with God’s love. It is so easy to understand and I’m so excited about Isaiah.
I love this translation. It just ignites my heart with God’s love. It is so easy to understand and I’m so excited about Isaiah.
December 1, 2020
Mike Winger’s fabulous words, need I say more!!!
I've spent many hours reviewing this work and found that it is not only uncareful and overly expansive it is actually misleading on numerous occasions. Scholars who have examined the work agree. Tremper Longman said that The Passion Translation suppresses the true meaning of the Song of Songs. Craig Blomberg said The Passion Translation should "come with a surgeon general's warning of it's potential hazards". Darrell Bock said, "it is NOT a tranlsation" (emphasis his, not mine). Douglas Moo, in his review of the book of Romans in The Passion Translation wrote, "I find it has several problems that, together, mean it is an unreliable guide to the meaning of Scripture." Nijay Gupta reviewed Brian Simmons' translation of the book of Galatians and said "Is Brian Simmons Qualified to write an "official use" Bible translation? No-for a number of reasons".
This review isn't coming from a critical spirit or any attempt to undermine anyone. This is the result of multiple scholars all agreeing on one thing. This is not a good version of the Bible. In the words of Gandalf, "Fly, you fools!"
I've spent many hours reviewing this work and found that it is not only uncareful and overly expansive it is actually misleading on numerous occasions. Scholars who have examined the work agree. Tremper Longman said that The Passion Translation suppresses the true meaning of the Song of Songs. Craig Blomberg said The Passion Translation should "come with a surgeon general's warning of it's potential hazards". Darrell Bock said, "it is NOT a tranlsation" (emphasis his, not mine). Douglas Moo, in his review of the book of Romans in The Passion Translation wrote, "I find it has several problems that, together, mean it is an unreliable guide to the meaning of Scripture." Nijay Gupta reviewed Brian Simmons' translation of the book of Galatians and said "Is Brian Simmons Qualified to write an "official use" Bible translation? No-for a number of reasons".
This review isn't coming from a critical spirit or any attempt to undermine anyone. This is the result of multiple scholars all agreeing on one thing. This is not a good version of the Bible. In the words of Gandalf, "Fly, you fools!"
December 1, 2020
This is a very bad translation, please do your research. It’s not accurate in many places. Awareness is starting to come out about how off this is.
December 17, 2022
I truly beautiful piece of art regarding the heartfelt passion and desire the the Lover of our souls has for His people and His children.
July 12, 2025
This is a review of TPT for the Gospels only. After reading so much pro and con about TPT, I bought one to read and decide for myself. The Gospels are the trial by fire for any edition of the NT, and I read them thoroughly, including the copious footnotes.
TPT has garnered much negative publicity, and I’ve seen no reason for that whatsoever. It’s highly free-flowing and readable, which is a plus to many who find reading to be heaving lifting. Is it a translation or a paraphrase? I see no benefit in forcing a label on it. With very few exceptions, almost no renderings changed the meaning from what you would read in more “literal” Bibles such as the NASB or NKJV. My advice would be to read them all, that way you become familiar with God’s Word, not a preferred translation.
Bottom line? You can sit in your easy chair with a heating pad and a cup of coffee, play some classical music and completely enjoy reading TPT for an hour as easily as if you were reading some breezy fiction, just with the edification of reading God’s Word instead of a literary Milk Dud. Five of the most important chapters in the entire Scriptures are John 13-17. TPT renders them as beautifully as any Bible I’ve read.
A review of TPT would be incomplete without mentioning the footnotes, which are extensive. I favor a literal interpretation of the Bible and it seems the translator does not. There is certainly room for a difference of views on this point. The majority of footnotes are informative and, at the least, highly thought-provoking. I saw a few that veered off into fanciful speculation, of which I will give an example later. In all things, let the ear “…test words…” as Job 12:11 says.
One weak point was in footnotes regarding the Trinity. I don’t say this to be contentious, in fact I view Brian Simmons as a brother in Christ. Yet, there seemed to be an obsession on his part to read into verses things that aren’t there with respect to the doctrine of a co-equal, co-eternal Triune Godhead.
This tendency is extensive, so the following section will be lengthy, but I hope informative.
Mark 12:36. Footnote... It says that in quoting Psalm 110:1, Jesus is saying the Messiah is both God and man. I don’t see that in the text. King David, who wrote the Psalm, viewed Yahweh as Almighty God. He foretold that his Lord (the Messiah) would sit alongside Yahweh, not be Yahweh Himself.
This is made even clearer when the disciples pray to Yahweh in Acts 4. In verses 27 and 30, they say Jesus the Messiah is Yahweh’s “servant” and His “Son”, not Yahweh Himself.
In Peter’s speech to Jews on Pentecost, he identifies Jesus as a “man” twice (Acts 2:22, 23), but doesn’t refer to Him as “God”. Peter does quote Psalm 110 and say that Jesus has been exalted to Yahweh’s right hand. This is how Psalm 110 is applied throughout the New Testament. (Colossians 3:1)
In Paul’s speech on Mars Hill, he refers to Jesus as a “man” whom God appointed to do judging. (Acts 17:31)
As the only begotten Son of God, Jesus was divine in heaven alongside The Father, the only true God. (John 1:1, 2 American Translation, Moffat, John 1:14, 17:3, 5, 20:31) The Father and His only begotten Son are different Persons just as Abraham and Isaac were.
Jesus was and is the perfect reflection of His Father (Hebrews 1:1-3) and since His resurrection is divine again. (Colossians 2:9) Thus, He is David’s “Lord”.
Nevertheless, it’s my opinion Jesus’ and His 1st century disciples’ application of Psalm 110 doesn’t allow for Him to be Yahweh, but rather he has been exalted to sit at Yahweh’s right hand. Yahweh is Almighty God, Jesus is His Son, the Messiah.
Luke 9:35. In an attempt to bolster the Trinity, the footnote claims the Holy Spirit is mentioned in the verse. It’s not. The footnote is wishful speculation, which wouldn’t be necessary if the Triune Godhead was true.
In a cul-de-sac of my previous point, I must include the translator’s fixation with the phrase “I am” in the Gospels. Again, I don’t raise this issue to be divisive or argumentative. However, TPT’s footnotes on this topic are, frankly, obsessive and misleading.
An attempt has been made for ages to link Jesus’ statement in John 8:58 with Yahweh’s words to Moses in Exodus 3:14. First off, Moses asked God by what name He should be known as. God replied, “I am who I am”, then shortened it to “I am”. This phrase appears once in the OT. God then followed it with “Yahweh”, a term used nearly 7000x in the OT. As discussed above, The Messiah is Yahweh’s Son and now sits at His right hand.
Nevertheless, Trinitarians have seemingly expanded their interpretation from John 8:58 to include whenever Jesus says “I am”, in whatever context. Jesus never claims His name is “I am” and his disciples never call Him that.
Furthermore, TPT (and every Trinitarian Bible) deems it necessary to use all caps when Jesus speaks the phrase, as in “I AM the bread of life”. This is eisegesis at best and misleading at worst. The original texts don’t distinguish those words in any way. If Jesus is claiming to be Yahweh, let readers come to that conclusion on their own. Translators all but point to them with a neon sign. Again, this would be unnecessary if the Trinity were true and the connection with Exodus was solid and obvious to the reader.
Below are a few examples of this which I consider egregious.
Matthew 14:27. The footnote attempts to link Jesus’ words with Exodus 3:14. When Jesus was walking on water, the disciples thought it was a ghost. Jesus essentially says, “…don’t worry, it’s me”. To say otherwise is flimsy, at best. Jesus was merely identifying Himself, not calling Himself “Yahweh”. A few vss. later the disciples call Him the “Son of God”, not Yahweh.
Compare this with John 9:9. The crowd asks the man if it was him who was healed. He replies, “I am”. He’s simply saying, “Yes, it’s me.” Check an interlinear for confirmation.
Side note: the footnote to Matthew 14:33 claims the disciples performed an act of worship by prostrating themselves before Jesus. The OT is full of people bowing down before kings and dignitaries. Also see Revelation 3:9 and check a few interlinears and a Strong’s.
There are more examples but John 8:58 is the granddaddy of them all. TPT also uses John 8:24. Let’s have a look.
First, compare how it’s rendered with other modern Bibles which are also translated by Trinitarians. I mean no offense, but TPT goes to ridiculous lengths to shoehorn “I AM” into Jesus’ debate with the Pharisees. The footnote to vs. 24 says it’s essential to the Christian faith to believe God became a man. Neither Jesus or the apostles taught any such thing. The apostles delivered several sermons to both Jews and Gentiles in Acts. They nowhere make such a statement. John says in 20:31 that he wrote the Gospel that we may believe Jesus is the Son of God.
Verse 28 as rendered by other Bibles make Jesus’ words clear, as does verse 54, where He says “The Father” is who the Jews worshiped as God. Also, compare Acts 5:30 with Galatians 1:1. Those vss. clearly show God the Father was the God of the Jews, who resurrected Jesus.
Oddly enough, John 8:58 is a little anti-climactic because of the translator’s own footnote. In it, he admits proper English grammar for the verse is “…before Abraham was born, I was.” All that means is that Jesus existed before Abraham, which as the only-begotten Son of God, is certainly true. But it does not mean Jesus is Yahweh. With his own footnote, the translator points a fan at his own “I AM” house of cards.
The 1993 edition of the NLT translates it similarly, as does The American Translation by Smith and Goodspeed and Moffat’s translation. The verse makes no grammatical sense in its Trinitarian rendering. For a more in-depth discussion of this, see my short Kindle book, “The Only True God” by Robert George. It’s not fancy, but the research is Bible-based and trustworthy.
There are other such footnotes but there’s no reason to list each one. The doctrine of the co-equal, co-eternal Triune Godhead has been a part of the Christian church since the 3rd or 4th century A.D. Sincere Christians have a strong emotional attachment to the teaching. In the case of TPT (and many others), I suspect the translator realizes that raw Scriptural support for the teaching is sparse at best. Their evidence for the Trinity is only convincing if you already believe it. That’s where these footnotes and capitalizing “I am” everywhere come in. He’s trying to bolster a weak doctrine that he truly loves.
But it’s a hoax. An ancient hoax, but a hoax, nonetheless.
All in all, TPT is a worthy edition to any Christian library. It’s a pleasure to read and listen to. I have the audio version as well, and the translation does a fine job reading it. God’s Word is like the greatest song ever written. There’s almost no bad version of it. Almost.
Highly recommended.
TPT has garnered much negative publicity, and I’ve seen no reason for that whatsoever. It’s highly free-flowing and readable, which is a plus to many who find reading to be heaving lifting. Is it a translation or a paraphrase? I see no benefit in forcing a label on it. With very few exceptions, almost no renderings changed the meaning from what you would read in more “literal” Bibles such as the NASB or NKJV. My advice would be to read them all, that way you become familiar with God’s Word, not a preferred translation.
Bottom line? You can sit in your easy chair with a heating pad and a cup of coffee, play some classical music and completely enjoy reading TPT for an hour as easily as if you were reading some breezy fiction, just with the edification of reading God’s Word instead of a literary Milk Dud. Five of the most important chapters in the entire Scriptures are John 13-17. TPT renders them as beautifully as any Bible I’ve read.
A review of TPT would be incomplete without mentioning the footnotes, which are extensive. I favor a literal interpretation of the Bible and it seems the translator does not. There is certainly room for a difference of views on this point. The majority of footnotes are informative and, at the least, highly thought-provoking. I saw a few that veered off into fanciful speculation, of which I will give an example later. In all things, let the ear “…test words…” as Job 12:11 says.
One weak point was in footnotes regarding the Trinity. I don’t say this to be contentious, in fact I view Brian Simmons as a brother in Christ. Yet, there seemed to be an obsession on his part to read into verses things that aren’t there with respect to the doctrine of a co-equal, co-eternal Triune Godhead.
This tendency is extensive, so the following section will be lengthy, but I hope informative.
Mark 12:36. Footnote... It says that in quoting Psalm 110:1, Jesus is saying the Messiah is both God and man. I don’t see that in the text. King David, who wrote the Psalm, viewed Yahweh as Almighty God. He foretold that his Lord (the Messiah) would sit alongside Yahweh, not be Yahweh Himself.
This is made even clearer when the disciples pray to Yahweh in Acts 4. In verses 27 and 30, they say Jesus the Messiah is Yahweh’s “servant” and His “Son”, not Yahweh Himself.
In Peter’s speech to Jews on Pentecost, he identifies Jesus as a “man” twice (Acts 2:22, 23), but doesn’t refer to Him as “God”. Peter does quote Psalm 110 and say that Jesus has been exalted to Yahweh’s right hand. This is how Psalm 110 is applied throughout the New Testament. (Colossians 3:1)
In Paul’s speech on Mars Hill, he refers to Jesus as a “man” whom God appointed to do judging. (Acts 17:31)
As the only begotten Son of God, Jesus was divine in heaven alongside The Father, the only true God. (John 1:1, 2 American Translation, Moffat, John 1:14, 17:3, 5, 20:31) The Father and His only begotten Son are different Persons just as Abraham and Isaac were.
Jesus was and is the perfect reflection of His Father (Hebrews 1:1-3) and since His resurrection is divine again. (Colossians 2:9) Thus, He is David’s “Lord”.
Nevertheless, it’s my opinion Jesus’ and His 1st century disciples’ application of Psalm 110 doesn’t allow for Him to be Yahweh, but rather he has been exalted to sit at Yahweh’s right hand. Yahweh is Almighty God, Jesus is His Son, the Messiah.
Luke 9:35. In an attempt to bolster the Trinity, the footnote claims the Holy Spirit is mentioned in the verse. It’s not. The footnote is wishful speculation, which wouldn’t be necessary if the Triune Godhead was true.
In a cul-de-sac of my previous point, I must include the translator’s fixation with the phrase “I am” in the Gospels. Again, I don’t raise this issue to be divisive or argumentative. However, TPT’s footnotes on this topic are, frankly, obsessive and misleading.
An attempt has been made for ages to link Jesus’ statement in John 8:58 with Yahweh’s words to Moses in Exodus 3:14. First off, Moses asked God by what name He should be known as. God replied, “I am who I am”, then shortened it to “I am”. This phrase appears once in the OT. God then followed it with “Yahweh”, a term used nearly 7000x in the OT. As discussed above, The Messiah is Yahweh’s Son and now sits at His right hand.
Nevertheless, Trinitarians have seemingly expanded their interpretation from John 8:58 to include whenever Jesus says “I am”, in whatever context. Jesus never claims His name is “I am” and his disciples never call Him that.
Furthermore, TPT (and every Trinitarian Bible) deems it necessary to use all caps when Jesus speaks the phrase, as in “I AM the bread of life”. This is eisegesis at best and misleading at worst. The original texts don’t distinguish those words in any way. If Jesus is claiming to be Yahweh, let readers come to that conclusion on their own. Translators all but point to them with a neon sign. Again, this would be unnecessary if the Trinity were true and the connection with Exodus was solid and obvious to the reader.
Below are a few examples of this which I consider egregious.
Matthew 14:27. The footnote attempts to link Jesus’ words with Exodus 3:14. When Jesus was walking on water, the disciples thought it was a ghost. Jesus essentially says, “…don’t worry, it’s me”. To say otherwise is flimsy, at best. Jesus was merely identifying Himself, not calling Himself “Yahweh”. A few vss. later the disciples call Him the “Son of God”, not Yahweh.
Compare this with John 9:9. The crowd asks the man if it was him who was healed. He replies, “I am”. He’s simply saying, “Yes, it’s me.” Check an interlinear for confirmation.
Side note: the footnote to Matthew 14:33 claims the disciples performed an act of worship by prostrating themselves before Jesus. The OT is full of people bowing down before kings and dignitaries. Also see Revelation 3:9 and check a few interlinears and a Strong’s.
There are more examples but John 8:58 is the granddaddy of them all. TPT also uses John 8:24. Let’s have a look.
First, compare how it’s rendered with other modern Bibles which are also translated by Trinitarians. I mean no offense, but TPT goes to ridiculous lengths to shoehorn “I AM” into Jesus’ debate with the Pharisees. The footnote to vs. 24 says it’s essential to the Christian faith to believe God became a man. Neither Jesus or the apostles taught any such thing. The apostles delivered several sermons to both Jews and Gentiles in Acts. They nowhere make such a statement. John says in 20:31 that he wrote the Gospel that we may believe Jesus is the Son of God.
Verse 28 as rendered by other Bibles make Jesus’ words clear, as does verse 54, where He says “The Father” is who the Jews worshiped as God. Also, compare Acts 5:30 with Galatians 1:1. Those vss. clearly show God the Father was the God of the Jews, who resurrected Jesus.
Oddly enough, John 8:58 is a little anti-climactic because of the translator’s own footnote. In it, he admits proper English grammar for the verse is “…before Abraham was born, I was.” All that means is that Jesus existed before Abraham, which as the only-begotten Son of God, is certainly true. But it does not mean Jesus is Yahweh. With his own footnote, the translator points a fan at his own “I AM” house of cards.
The 1993 edition of the NLT translates it similarly, as does The American Translation by Smith and Goodspeed and Moffat’s translation. The verse makes no grammatical sense in its Trinitarian rendering. For a more in-depth discussion of this, see my short Kindle book, “The Only True God” by Robert George. It’s not fancy, but the research is Bible-based and trustworthy.
There are other such footnotes but there’s no reason to list each one. The doctrine of the co-equal, co-eternal Triune Godhead has been a part of the Christian church since the 3rd or 4th century A.D. Sincere Christians have a strong emotional attachment to the teaching. In the case of TPT (and many others), I suspect the translator realizes that raw Scriptural support for the teaching is sparse at best. Their evidence for the Trinity is only convincing if you already believe it. That’s where these footnotes and capitalizing “I am” everywhere come in. He’s trying to bolster a weak doctrine that he truly loves.
But it’s a hoax. An ancient hoax, but a hoax, nonetheless.
All in all, TPT is a worthy edition to any Christian library. It’s a pleasure to read and listen to. I have the audio version as well, and the translation does a fine job reading it. God’s Word is like the greatest song ever written. There’s almost no bad version of it. Almost.
Highly recommended.
December 3, 2020
As much as this version of the Gospel might appeal to the feelings of the readers, this translation is completely off. I encourage everyone who reads this version to compare it to the original texts of scripture. You can even compare this version to other English versions. The author has added so much to the text “to bring the text to life”, but by his addition he has managed to corrupt the message of the Gospel. I would encourage all of those who enjoyed this “version” of the Bible to do your own research about the book and the author. Mr. Simmons isn't a linguist nor is he a translator. A lot or theologians have come out and spoken about the book. I encourage those of you who wholeheartedly want to to seek the Lord to check out Mike Winger’s thorough review of the Passion Translation.
March 14, 2018
A Fresh Look at Familiar Passages
I love reading the Bible in a different translation because of the insights each version gives me as a reader. It’s the insights I get as I read The Passion Translation from Dr. Brian Simmons. This volume contains the entire New Testament, Psalms, Proverbs and the Song of Solomon in a beautiful leather-bound book.
The pages turn easily and the print is easy to read. Throughout the translation the notes add to the text as you read it. Here’s a familiar verse as an example from Psalm 23:1 says, “The Lord is my best friend and my shepherd I always have more than enough.”
I highly recommend this translation.
I love reading the Bible in a different translation because of the insights each version gives me as a reader. It’s the insights I get as I read The Passion Translation from Dr. Brian Simmons. This volume contains the entire New Testament, Psalms, Proverbs and the Song of Solomon in a beautiful leather-bound book.
The pages turn easily and the print is easy to read. Throughout the translation the notes add to the text as you read it. Here’s a familiar verse as an example from Psalm 23:1 says, “The Lord is my best friend and my shepherd I always have more than enough.”
I highly recommend this translation.
December 1, 2020
This isn't a translation... Its a mangling of God's word. Comparing the verses to the ESV, or even the NIV (or KJV) you can see the liberties taken. To my knowledge Brian Simmons does not have the qualifications to translate.... And even then, most reliable translations are by committee, not by a single source. His claimed visions also make me question the validity of his work. Avoid.
January 24, 2019
This translation stirs the heart in amazing ways. It stirs the desire to be in The Word like never before. The footnotes are an outstanding addition to grasping even more meaning. This translation is now my go to translation and I look forward to the Old Testament being translated as well.
December 2, 2020
This should not be considered a translation. It is an awful paraphrase at best and a deceptive, cultish theological manipulation device at worst. This should be avoided at all costs by Christians who care about getting their theology right.
November 22, 2024
I absolutely love this version of the Bible! I felt like I fell in love with Jesus and His Word all over again. The writing is so deep, powerful, and poetic.
I have read the entire Bible all the way through twice before and have been reading the Bible seriously most days for over 30 years.
This time I read everything: book introductions, footnotes, etc. I feel like I learned so much, especially by reading the footnotes. The translators are constantly was teaching you about the Greek and Hebrew translations of various words.
I listened to Brian Simmons (the lead linguist, translator) in an interview. He said God came to him in a vision and told him to write this translation. I believe Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8)...He came to people in Visions and dreams before and He continues to do so.
Simmons is a credible Christian man. He is a linguist, minister, Bible teacher, and former missionary. As a linguist he co-translated the Papa-Kuna New Testament for the people of Panama. Broadstreet Publishing formed a team of experts and scholars to review TPT and ensure accuracy.
Simmons said translating the original text from Greek, Hebrew, Aramaic to English is often very difficult and there aren't direct specific words sometimes. At times, other translations may have been too succinct and you can lose the passionate Words that God was trying to speak to us. So this was his attempt to capture God's passionate love for us in a very in-depth translation.
Here's a good example. In most translations John 11:35 says: "Jesus wept." In TPT it says: "Then tears streamed down Jesus' face." I love how this translation brings that word picture to life!
Also, some argue we should not be updating the Bible and stick to the KJV only. In the KJV of Isaiah 34:7 it says: "And the unicorns shall come down with them...." Unicorns are mentioned 9 times in KJV. In most modern translations the word "wild oxen" is used instead.
I think the only "pure" way to read the Bible with zero errors is to learn Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic and study the text that way.
For those of us who don't have time or can't learn Greek/Hebrew/Aramaic fluently, I praise God for all of the translations we have! I love comparing them side by side and learning more of God's precious Word. My favorites are: KJV, NKJV, the old NIV, NLT, and now I add TPT.
Of course we need to be discerning and prayerful about new translations that come out. We need to make sure the Bible isn't being manipulated in a way to change the meaning, commands, teachings, promises God has for us.
People may disagree with me, TPT, etc. and that is fine.
But I have read some horrible reviews where people are vehemently attacking this translation and the people who wrote it. To them I would ask: have you read your Bibles--your version of choice? Review how to treat people and how to lovingly handle disagreements.
This translation took a ton of work and was written with the intention of drawing more into the Kingdom. God bless the translators and all who read the Bible in whatever version they choose!
I have read the entire Bible all the way through twice before and have been reading the Bible seriously most days for over 30 years.
This time I read everything: book introductions, footnotes, etc. I feel like I learned so much, especially by reading the footnotes. The translators are constantly was teaching you about the Greek and Hebrew translations of various words.
I listened to Brian Simmons (the lead linguist, translator) in an interview. He said God came to him in a vision and told him to write this translation. I believe Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8)...He came to people in Visions and dreams before and He continues to do so.
Simmons is a credible Christian man. He is a linguist, minister, Bible teacher, and former missionary. As a linguist he co-translated the Papa-Kuna New Testament for the people of Panama. Broadstreet Publishing formed a team of experts and scholars to review TPT and ensure accuracy.
Simmons said translating the original text from Greek, Hebrew, Aramaic to English is often very difficult and there aren't direct specific words sometimes. At times, other translations may have been too succinct and you can lose the passionate Words that God was trying to speak to us. So this was his attempt to capture God's passionate love for us in a very in-depth translation.
Here's a good example. In most translations John 11:35 says: "Jesus wept." In TPT it says: "Then tears streamed down Jesus' face." I love how this translation brings that word picture to life!
Also, some argue we should not be updating the Bible and stick to the KJV only. In the KJV of Isaiah 34:7 it says: "And the unicorns shall come down with them...." Unicorns are mentioned 9 times in KJV. In most modern translations the word "wild oxen" is used instead.
I think the only "pure" way to read the Bible with zero errors is to learn Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic and study the text that way.
For those of us who don't have time or can't learn Greek/Hebrew/Aramaic fluently, I praise God for all of the translations we have! I love comparing them side by side and learning more of God's precious Word. My favorites are: KJV, NKJV, the old NIV, NLT, and now I add TPT.
Of course we need to be discerning and prayerful about new translations that come out. We need to make sure the Bible isn't being manipulated in a way to change the meaning, commands, teachings, promises God has for us.
People may disagree with me, TPT, etc. and that is fine.
But I have read some horrible reviews where people are vehemently attacking this translation and the people who wrote it. To them I would ask: have you read your Bibles--your version of choice? Review how to treat people and how to lovingly handle disagreements.
This translation took a ton of work and was written with the intention of drawing more into the Kingdom. God bless the translators and all who read the Bible in whatever version they choose!
January 7, 2025
*sigh* Oh friends, where to begin? I have concerns about this "Passion Translation."
What they're marketing as a "translation" appears to be more of an emotional paraphrase. Although I appreciate making scripture accessible, there's a reason traditional translations involve teams of scholars working from original texts. You can't just rewrite things to be more emotionally stirring and call it a translation.
The psychology angle here is interesting - they're clearly targeting people seeking emotional connection with God, which is valid! But they're doing it by essentially rewriting scripture to match modern emotional expectations. That's... problematic.
Look at their Psalm 5:3 version - the original Hebrew doesn't mention anything about "pieces of life" or "fire falling upon my heart." They've added modern metaphors that completely change the text's original meaning.
I get why this appeals to people. Really, I do. We all want that emotional connection. But I worry about rewriting ancient texts to match contemporary emotional needs. It risks distorting both the historical record and people's spiritual development.
Just my two cents. If you want to read it as inspirational literature, fine. But please don't mistake it for a scholarly translation. There are better options for that.
What they're marketing as a "translation" appears to be more of an emotional paraphrase. Although I appreciate making scripture accessible, there's a reason traditional translations involve teams of scholars working from original texts. You can't just rewrite things to be more emotionally stirring and call it a translation.
The psychology angle here is interesting - they're clearly targeting people seeking emotional connection with God, which is valid! But they're doing it by essentially rewriting scripture to match modern emotional expectations. That's... problematic.
Look at their Psalm 5:3 version - the original Hebrew doesn't mention anything about "pieces of life" or "fire falling upon my heart." They've added modern metaphors that completely change the text's original meaning.
I get why this appeals to people. Really, I do. We all want that emotional connection. But I worry about rewriting ancient texts to match contemporary emotional needs. It risks distorting both the historical record and people's spiritual development.
Just my two cents. If you want to read it as inspirational literature, fine. But please don't mistake it for a scholarly translation. There are better options for that.
August 6, 2023
A fresh translation for today's reader
I attempt to read through the New Testament at least once a year, and choose a different translation each time. The Passion Translation is fresh and easy to read, with ample footnotes which explain the meanings behind the words and why specific words were used. This particular edition includes the New Testament, Psalms (yea!), Proverbs and The Song of Solomon. The translators frequently refer in the footnotes to Aramaic, Greek, Hebrew and Septuagint renderings of some verses and explain why one might be chosen over the other. You may have a favorite translation already, and that's good, but please take the time to read and compare to see if there might be nuances and shades of meaning you might not have seen, or which might not be easily understood in English.
I attempt to read through the New Testament at least once a year, and choose a different translation each time. The Passion Translation is fresh and easy to read, with ample footnotes which explain the meanings behind the words and why specific words were used. This particular edition includes the New Testament, Psalms (yea!), Proverbs and The Song of Solomon. The translators frequently refer in the footnotes to Aramaic, Greek, Hebrew and Septuagint renderings of some verses and explain why one might be chosen over the other. You may have a favorite translation already, and that's good, but please take the time to read and compare to see if there might be nuances and shades of meaning you might not have seen, or which might not be easily understood in English.
October 19, 2024
The two stars are not for the Bible, or the stories or lessons or truths it contains.
The two stars are for this “translation”. First of all translation is a misleading word, one guy translated this. It’s a paraphrase. There was no team of scholars. They was a dude with an agenda.
Second and more importantly, there’s a lot of interpretation and addition in this “translation” of Scripture. Often that interpretation, presented as translation, has an agenda. One example that stood out to me was in Proverbs 15.
He translates a line to say: “the Lord… loves those who pursue purity”
Purity culture and idealizing virginity etc is big in the Church.
The Hebrew for this verse says: “He shows mercy to the one who practices righteousness.”
The whole meaning, the love and grace of God, the actual call to us, all of that is lost in the author’s interpretive paraphrase.
The two stars are for this “translation”. First of all translation is a misleading word, one guy translated this. It’s a paraphrase. There was no team of scholars. They was a dude with an agenda.
Second and more importantly, there’s a lot of interpretation and addition in this “translation” of Scripture. Often that interpretation, presented as translation, has an agenda. One example that stood out to me was in Proverbs 15.
He translates a line to say: “the Lord… loves those who pursue purity”
Purity culture and idealizing virginity etc is big in the Church.
The Hebrew for this verse says: “He shows mercy to the one who practices righteousness.”
The whole meaning, the love and grace of God, the actual call to us, all of that is lost in the author’s interpretive paraphrase.
January 27, 2025
There were parts of this translation that I truly loved, but overall the way that Brian chose to write a lot things felt almost forcibly flowery/trying-too-hard to be elegant and beautiful. I noticed it the most in Proverbs, but really it was a consistent experience throughout the book of feeling like: "well all those words SOUND really pretty, but that is definitely not the best way you could have said that..." Overall, I think it's a translation that is worth reading if you're interested, but for me personally, if I'm looking for more of a dynamic equivalent, I think I'll always choose The Message over this one...
January 1, 2026
I did like this translation. Rather unexpectedly it wasn't just a fancy sugarcoated version of existing translations but it relied on several older/original versions, Greek, Hebrew, Aramaic, with numerous notes and explanations I really appreciated. Especially the often misunderstood one about Jesus asking that the cup would be taken from him - meaning premature death in Gethsemane, "sweating drops of blood, while prophecies had to be fulfilled of being pierced on a cross for our transgressions. God answered his cry and he lived through the agony of Gethsemane so that he could be our sacrifice for sin on Calvary. Jesus did not waver in the garden. We have a brave Saviour."
March 18, 2021
Notes::
Promotes the New Apostolic Reformation belief system
Not a real translation, just one man's poetic ideas that pervert the scripture into a lie
Author claims he recieved a commission from an angel named Passion to write this and while he was in heaven one time god told him he has John chapter 22 ready and waiting for Brian Simmons himself to reveal to the world!
This book actually nauseated me; reader beware!!
Promotes the New Apostolic Reformation belief system
Not a real translation, just one man's poetic ideas that pervert the scripture into a lie
Author claims he recieved a commission from an angel named Passion to write this and while he was in heaven one time god told him he has John chapter 22 ready and waiting for Brian Simmons himself to reveal to the world!
This book actually nauseated me; reader beware!!
December 31, 2022
The author does a fine job of clarifying concepts and even the language of the New Testament for the reader. I enjoyed reading this version of the New Testament this year. I found as someone who reads the Bible regularly that this version make me stop and think about what was happening and what was being said. If you need fresh eyes on the New Testament in your reading, consider going through The Passion Translation.
May 29, 2023
This is a very intriguing and inspiring translation of the New Testament, Psalms, Proverbs and Song of Songs. While I still much prefer New King James version or Amplified version, TPT adds a new dimension, or perhaps viewpoint, that expresses how deeply God loves each of us. I often read multiple versions of scripture to help me understand the depth of God's love and plans for us. From now on I will be including TPT in my Bible studies.
December 22, 2023
Many of the footnotes brought a fresh perspective to familiar verses. I really liked this!
Because it's not uncommon for the translator's thoughts to be woven into the verses (and not just kept in the footnotes), I would not categorize this as a translation but as a paraphrase.
I enjoyed reading this one, but ironically, it made me crave a more literal translation. I'm even considering the KJV. *gasp* Okay, maybe NKJV.
Because it's not uncommon for the translator's thoughts to be woven into the verses (and not just kept in the footnotes), I would not categorize this as a translation but as a paraphrase.
I enjoyed reading this one, but ironically, it made me crave a more literal translation. I'm even considering the KJV. *gasp* Okay, maybe NKJV.
December 8, 2023
Worst bible ever!!!
Full of mistakes and some parts they just stop using the bible altogether and make it up as they go along.
If you use this bible it will tickle your ears ditectly into hell!!
This disconnects you from The Holy Spirit and connects you directly with deamons.
There is no way to God using this discustingly Bad bodge Job!!
Full of mistakes and some parts they just stop using the bible altogether and make it up as they go along.
If you use this bible it will tickle your ears ditectly into hell!!
This disconnects you from The Holy Spirit and connects you directly with deamons.
There is no way to God using this discustingly Bad bodge Job!!
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