ESV

Apparently the English Standard Version is the "unofficial" official translation of the Bible for the LCMS. The LCMS doesn't want people to throw out their existing translations and upgrade, but ESV will used in the new hymnals and in pastoral reference materials. Apparently it "reads in a familiar voice."

My first encounter with this version was John 1:1-3:

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Ok, yes, that sounds familiar. I'm with ya.

2 He was in the beginning with God.

Hmm, that's an interesting way to phrase it, but it makes sense. Moving on...

3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.

What was that again? "without him was not anything made that was made." Wow. Is it just me, or is that a funky way to phrase that verse?

But, hey, every translation has something good and bad about it. Short of learning Greek and Hebrew, a translation of God's word is the best thing I have to go on. Plus, I appreciate multiple translations, and sites like biblegateway.com that let you view multiple translations at once.