Often a person will  ask questions concerning the Bible and I would like to respond to a few.  Some are:

1) Is it a sin to write in one's Bible?

Answer - The Bible is God's sacred book of directions for mankind.  It must not be treated without respect, as God is speaking throughout it, even though He used 40 different writers and had it recorded in three languages, over a period of 1500 years.  It tells from where we have come and why we are here and where we are going.  It gives us encouragement and hope through our daily lives.  It grants to us the way to secure eternal life.  To write on the pages (notes in the margins, underlining words, etc.) is to my judgment not sinful.  Nearly every page in my Bible has Hoyt's markings.  This allows me to more quickly locate certain words and to be more useful as a Bible teacher.

2) Is it a sin to use another translation other than the King  James Version?

Answer - The King James Version was first translated in 1611.  There have been many revisions of it since that time.  Some were made in; 1613, 1615, 1629, 1638, 1701, 1759, and 1762.  Goodspeed states that at least 75,000 changes have been made in the KJV since it was first printed.  Modern day versions have some advantages over the KJV.  Some are:  a) Archaic terms such as "Thee" and "Thou" are revised to read "You" as one speaks today   b) Updated punctuation and grammar   c) True meanings of original words are better translated and understood   d) Formats are used which are appreciated (paragraphs, footnotes, chapter headings, etc.)

3) Is it a sin to use a Bible Commentary, Dictionary, Concordance, etc?

Answer - The need to use extra help as one studies the Scriptures is certainly not necessary.  However, just as in any other study of anything in life the more assistance one receives to learn about the subject the better prepared he is to instruct others.  To take advantage of the wealth of information from those who have traveled to the Holy Lands, to understand the dress styles, languages, culture, geography, etc. is to equip one to do a better job of passing on the old Jerusalem Gospel..

KYOWVA  Evangelistic Association

1541 S. 7th Street * Ironton, OH   45638

Web Page: www.kyowva.com * Free Bible Course Upon Request