400TH Anniversary

Four Hundred Years ago a single publication was printed that has impacted the world more than any other book: THE KING JAMES BIBLE. It is the grand old English translation. In the age of a proliferation of English translations, I dare say none will equal the impact or the staying power of the King James Bible. While some want to disregard it and others want to worship it, no one can deny it is the most influential version of the Bible ever printed. It has impacted the centuries not only because it is the Word of God, but for its influence on faith, literature, language, and history. Its prose is said to have inspired Paradise Lost, Pilgrim's Progress, Negro spirituals, and the Gettysburg Address. This one book sparked literacy around the world. It was the cornerstone of education for centuries. It provided inspiration to countless writers. It influenced such documents as the Mayflower Compact and the Constitution of the United States. Respect for the KJV's impact on language, literature and faith should result in celebration.

The KJV was the product of 54 men who formed the translating team. However, Cleland Boyd McAfee said, "Tyndale is the real father of our King James Version. About 80 percent of his Old Testament and 90 percent of his New Testament have been transferred to our version." Tyndale translated the Bible into English in the 1500’s, and was burned at the stake because of it. While the language has been applauded, it was not translated to become an example of effective use of language or literature. It was translated to provide the world with translation accuracy of the original Hebrew and Greek. Their aim was an accurate, accessible Bible for the English speaking people. No, the KJV was not the translation Paul used, although many lay people believed it was the original Bible—it had that kind of influence.

The KJV still demands our respect and use. It should not only be celebrated, but read. May it not be relegated to a shelf, but stored in our soul. While we may use and even prefer newer translations, let us not neglect it nor forget its words, rather may we read it, memorized it, and cherish it in our hearts and minds. It is the Word of God. It is the grand translation of all translations