This excellent article copied with permission from: https://inerrantword.wordpress.com/category/kjv-onlyism/
If you enjoy this article you would like Pastor Mark’s book, King James Onlyism: Is the KJV the Best Bible Version? The book is available in both Kindle and paperback formats from Amazon. To purchase from Amazon, CLICK HERE or click the book image to the left.
Let me start this and state from the outset, that I do not have any issue with the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible. This is not an anti-KJV post but rather one to balance some of the arguments the KJV-only proponents have used to ridicule and malign some of the modern translations such as the NASB, NIV, ESV etc.
Just so it is clear, my position is this: that the version of Bible you use (be it KJV, NASB, NIV etc) is a personal preference and it will not affect your ability to live a godly life, your walk with the Lord, or your ability to win souls to Christ. Most of the modern translations are extremely accurate to the original texts in their original languages of Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic.
The argument that the KJV is the only perfect version of God’s Word is incorrect and most of the arguments used to support that position are wrong, or disingenuous. As I complete other posts about the KJV-only issue, they can be found here.
The passage below is one of those used to argue the superiority of the KJV.
Luke 2:33 in a couple of different translations says the following:
KJV: And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
ESV: And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him.
NASB: And His father and mother were amazed at the things which were being said about Him.
NIV (1984): The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him.
This passage is one which is often used to support the erroneous view that the modern translations (often labelled “perversions” by KJV-only supporters) are trying to deny the virgin birth, of all things. Their argument basically states that the modern translations state that Jesus’ father was Joseph and not God and thus He was born of a natural union between Joseph and Mary. Only the KJV refers to Joseph by name and thus preserves the truth of the virgin birth.
A quote from the site “Scion of Zion” for example states this: “The effect of changing “Joseph” to “father” will teach that Jesus had an earthly father which completely voids the cardinal doctrine of the virgin birth of Christ. If Joseph was the earthly father of the Lord Jesus, then He would have had to inherit the sin nature which was passed down from Adam. . . . By removing verses which support the virgin birth, it brings Jesus down to the level of just a human being. If Jesus was born with a sin nature, then He was an unqualified candidate for atonement for the sins of His people and therefore we Christians are still in our sins.”
So, are the modern versions trying to mislead the people and deceitfully move people away from the virgin birth and thus into a position of deny the ability of Christ to save? Not at all. The concept is absolutely preposterous. This is an argument which typifies the idiocy in the KJV-only movement. It tends to be based on hysteria and deception.
There are many facts of evidence which clearly state that the modern translations are not trying to deny the virgin birth.
Firstly, if that was the case, they would need to systematically remove all reference to the virgin birth. However, in the previous chapter, the NASB, for example, mentions the virgin birth 3 times (Luke 1:27, 34). Also, in verse 35, the miraculous aspect of His birth is mentioned a couple more times. So the conspiracy essentially dies with that.
Secondly, to all intents and purposes, Joseph was Jesus’ father. He raised Him, cared for Him, loved Him, provided for Him, and taught Him a trade even. Now, my wife is adopted. She was raised by a couple who were not her birth parents. Yet she calls them her mother and father. She does not specifically her “adoptive mother” and “adoptive father”. That is clumsy and impractical. The same goes for this situation too – Joseph was Jesus’ father – an adoptive father.
Thirdly, the KJV actually has no problem calling Joseph His father elsewhere. Luke 2:41 in the KJV says: “Now His parents went to Jerusalem…” And again in Luke 2:48 the KJV says: “Behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.” Here the KJV itself has referred to Joseph as His father and His parent.
The modern translations in no way hint or suggest or otherwise to be trying to deny our Lord’s virgin birth. They simply have used a word clearly understood by the read to convey the relationship Joseph had with Jesus. To suggest otherwise almost insults the intelligence of readers. So, it is actually not the KJV that is the problem here, it is rather the people who use it as a tool of their manipulation in their war on God’s Word.
In this instance, the KJV and the modern translations both provide a perfectly valid translation for their readers. No one is left bereft of vital, fundamental information.
If you enjoyed this article you would like Pastor Mark’s book, King James Onlyism: Is the KJV the Best Bible Version? The book is available in both Kindle and paperback formats from Amazon. To purchase from Amazon, CLICK HERE or click the book image to the left.
This book will give you a quick synopsis of the key issues and prepare you to more than hold your own against the cultic onslaught of the KJV Only Cult. Learn about the manuscript evidence discovered after 1611, advances in linguistic understanding, modern scholarship about Hebrew and Greek idioms, and doctrinal problems with the KJV.
Other books by Pastor Mark Swarbrick, click the image below…
Comments are welcome. Scroll down to comment.
Have a Question or Insight? Join the Discussion — To Comment, Scroll to the Bottom. Please Be Courteous and Stay on Topic.
Books by Mark Swarbrick
For more information on Jimmy Swaggart Ministries, get my book, Swaggartism: The Strange Doctrines of Jimmy Swaggart Ministries, available now on Amazon in paperback, Kindle eBook, and audio book, starting at only $6.99. For information click HERE.
Available in Paperback and Kindle eBook – 266 pages of documented facts!
Seventh-Day Adventism Examined: A Concise Summary of Adventism's Unbiblical Doctrines
Author Mark Swarbrick meticulously dissects the myriad of false teachings within Adventism, contrasting these interpretations with scriptural truth.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
The Pre-Trib Rapture: Biblical Truth of the Blessed Hope
In his book, The Pre-Trib Rapture, author Mark Swarbrick meticulously outlines the extensive biblical support for a Pre-Trib Rapture, emphasizing the deliverance of the Church before the onset of the impending Tribulation period.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
Hidden History: The Untold Story of the Democratic Party
The political narrative in America has transcended the realm of politics to become a battle between the forces of good and evil. It is essential that all Christians are informed on the anti-Christian direction of the Democratic Party.
200 pages of factual history! Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
The Covid Conspiracy: The Cure for Covid and the Plot to Hide it from the World
The Covid Conspiracy tells the incredible story of diabolical collusion between multinational drug companies, governmental regulatory agencies, and unscrupulous politicians.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $2.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
The Carnivore Diet: The Science, the Promise, and the Pitfalls
Author Mark Swarbrick thoroughly explains the diet, telling of his experiences with it and how it has radically improved his health in a short amount of time. One chapter deals with the current war on meat and what the Bible has to say about those who forbid eating meat.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $2.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
Heavenly Miracles: True Stories of Supernatural Intervention
When the author saw how demons flee at the name of Jesus, his growing faith resulted in numerous miracles in his life and ministry.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $2.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
King James Onlyism: Is the KJV the Best Bible Version?
KJV Onlyists have troubled the hearts of many a Christianand have split churches in half. Controversy, factions, and strive are their forte. No doubt, they are sincere, but they are sincerely wrong.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $2.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
The Hidden Truth about Catholicism
If you are a Catholic this book is for you. With loving respect, this book gives a detailed account of the history of Catholicism with an in-depth analysis of Catholic teachings.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $2.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
Life after Death: What Happens When We Die?
A refutation of soul sleep, the idea that people are unconscious or nonexistent until God raises their bodies from the dead at the resurrection.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $2.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
Mormonism Examined: The Bizarre History and Unbiblical Doctrines of Mormonism
This is not an anti-Mormon rant, but a thoughtful analysis of Mormonism in the light of the Holy Bible and historic Christian doctrine.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $4.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
Truly Amazing: The Real Story of Adam and Eve
Children get bombarded with confusion about gender, marriage, and evolution at a very young age.This book shows what God has to say on these crucial matters. This book is a creation story for kids that explains the creation and the fall in an interesting way that children can relate to.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $2.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
Global Warming: Socialism in Disguise
In "Global Warming Examined," Mark Swarbrick compellingly illustrates how genuine scientific data contradicts the prevalent political narrative of an imminent climate crisis. Drawing on insights from esteemed scientists, he dismantles the fallacious belief in man-made global warming as a cataclysmic threat.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
Beyond Redemption: Love and Longing in the Old West (Book 1)
A thrilling historical western and romance packed with Gospel truth. A perfect gift for someone you want to share the Gospel with. Here is what one reader said about Beyond Redemption:
“THIS READ IS A GRIPPING JOURNEY back in time to the rugged Wild West, where love, justice, and redemption entwine in a tale that will leave you captivated. Author Mark Swarbrick skillfully weaves historical detail into this action-packed narrative, giving readers an authentic and suspenseful experience. The story revolves around Cal Chandler, an unlikely outlaw forced into a life of crime, and his love for Jessica Lorena McKenzie, a devout Christian, creating a captivating clash of faiths and emotions. For fans of historical depth, “Beyond Redemption” is a must-read that brings the people of the Wild West to life as they truly were." — Jerry Rubenstein
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $6.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
Beyond Redemption: War & Peace in the Old West (Book 2)
The Second Book in the Beyond Redemption series. How the characters prayerfully deal with their challenges is a testament to the changing power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $9.99 - Click HERE to purchase.
Abducted by Demons - Saved by Jesus: My Journey for Hell to Heaven
Join Mark Swarbrick on a heart-wrenching journey from the depths of demonic oppression to the transformative peace and salvation found in Christ.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 - Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
Fossil Fuels – God’s Gift to Man: How God used Coal, Oil, and Natural Gas to Save Mankind
In this eye-opening book, Mark Swarbrick challenges the prevailing narrative surrounding fossil fuels and climate change, showing that coal, oil, and natural gas are not environmental villains, but rather divine provisions strategically placed by God to sustain humanity's growing population.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 - Click HERE to purchase.
Word of Faith Examined: A Refutation of the Prosperity Gospel's Unbiblical Doctrines
In this bold and timely book, pastor and author Mark Swarbrick exposes the dangers and distortions at the heart of the Word of Faith movement, also known as the “Name-it-and-Claim-it” or “Health and Wealth Gospel.”
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 - Click HERE to purchase.
The Israel of God: A Christian and Biblical Perspective of the Modern State of Israel
Author Mark Swarbrick delivers a clear, biblically grounded exploration of Israel’s unique place in God’s redemptive plan—past, present, and future.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 – Click HERE to purchase at Amazon.
Extraterrestrials Exposed: The Scientific and Biblical Evidence of a Grand Deception
Drawing on extensive research, author Mark Swarbrick uncovers how claims of alien encounters, UFO sightings, and government disclosures may not be what they seem. He presents a thought-provoking analysis that combines scientific inquiry with biblical teachings, suggesting that what many perceive as alien phenomena could actually be a sophisticated ruse designed to mislead humanity.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $2.99 – Click
HERE
to purchase at Amazon.
Socialism Examined: Man's Secular Answer to a Spiritual Problem
Author Mark Swarbrick explains, in simple terms, why socialism conflicts with biblical truth and why it consistently harms the very people it claims to help. You will learn how modern political leaders use fear, crisis, and entitlement to push a country toward greater state control — and why many don’t recognize it until it’s too late.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 – Click
HERE
to purchase at Amazon.
Homosexuality and Trangenderism Examined: What the Bible Really Says
Author Mark Swarbrick covers the key biblical passages on homosexuality and transgenderism, showing what Scripture teaches and how those teachings shaped Western moral order for nearly two millennia before being rejected in our time.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 – Click
HERE
to purchase at Amazon.
Once Saved Always Saved Examined: What the Bible Really Says
Author Mark Swarbrick covers the key biblical passages on unconditional security, showing what Scripture teaches and how the early Christian Church understood this important topic.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 – Click
HERE
to purchase at Amazon.
The Mysterious Disappearance of Amelia Earhart Solved
Author Mark Swarbrick, a pilot trained at the University of Illinois Institute of Aviation and a licensed HAM radio operator, draws on his knowledge of cross-country navigation, aircraft performance, and shortwave radio to bring technical clarity to one of aviation’s greatest mysteries.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $3.99 – Click
HERE
to purchase at Amazon.
Jehovah's Witnesses Examined:
In Jehovah’s Witnesses Examined, author Mark W. Swarbrick carefully compares the doctrines of the Watchtower organization with the clear teaching of the Bible. This concise and readable book exposes the movement’s history, its controlling structure, and the serious doctrinal errors that separate it from historic Christianity.
Available in Paperback, Kindle eBook, and Audio Book. Only $4.99 – Click
HERE
to purchase at Amazon.
The arguments between KJV onlyism and newer translations is a moot point. This wrestling match on scripture accuracy has gone on since the 1st century AD. As a historian who has researched pagan, Jewish, biblical history and secular history pertaining to these mentioned followings, I found the whole issue disheartening and head spinning.
Hundreds and perhaps thousands of biblical doctrines and scriptures have come and gone, and what we have left of a Bible is taken from literal scraps of papyrus or vellum, a treated animal skin. Thousands of lives have been lost in those years in man’s attempt of coagulating an accurate library of books into a Bible.
But the interesting thing is, the true church of Christ (the Jewish Messiah) blossomed for centuries without a Bible. How is this possible? Through the fire baptism of the Holy Spirit of God starting at Pentecost transferred into born again believers in the salvation work of Jesus over the past 2000 years. True Christianity is not a religion, and anyone referring to it as a religion doesn’t understand Christianity.
Jesus never said to read a Bible, go to a seminary or Bible college or join any religion. He simply said, repent and be born again, and believe on ME. This is the gospel, and what Jesus told his disciples to do, and then to tell others. If we have repented, are born again in His fire baptism Spirit, then we too are His disciples, and our commandment from Jesus is to tell others, and not necessarily tell them to go read a particular Bible.
The reason there is this disagreement over Bibles is because there were two main streams (ignoring the Codex Vaticanus from the Roman religion) of manuscripts that translators could work from. One stream of Greek translations came through Antioch (Acts 15:30) into Asia Minor or the Byzantine empire, now Turkey.
The second stream later came from Egypt or the Codex Sinaiticus. These were discovered in a Monastery at the foot of the perhaps MT Sinai by a student named Tischenforf, who brought them to Russia before England purchased them. The monks were burning the documents for kindling, so it was highly regarded as forgeries by his contemporaries.
The early reformers translated scripts from the Byzantine Greek documents. This is where the KJV came from. After the invention of the printing press, many translators then used these documents to translate into other languages. Many Bibles were printed for royalty (King James was one) to store in their personal library (which many people still do today), or for personal recognition. It was often a race to see who could get their Bible to press first, often without regard for exact translation, which could be corrected later in another revision.
In the 19th century, two supposed excellent translators of ancient documents named Westcott and Hort took on the job of using Textual Criticism to translate mostly from the Codex Sinaiticus, thinking it was the oldest available script, and therefore most accurate, which it wasn’t.
It should be noted that WH depended more on their translation skills, not necessarily believing the scripts were the word of God or asking the Spirit of God to guide them, which arguably the earlier reformists (other than Erasmus) did.
Neither one was a true Christian, and actually had dabbled into the occult and Darwin’s theory of evolution. In all fairness, I don’t think either of these activities somehow infiltrated their Bible translations, but leaves one to wonder their reason for dropping some words or verses, other then the argument they weren’t written in all available documents.
The outcome of this textual criticism is one reason we have so many different Bibles today, and not necessarily from the oldest and best translations available.
However, the other reason and most disturbing is, why so many Bibles? It has nothing to do with an older or more accurate translation, and everything to do with recognition and money. For if a few words or phrases are changed or deleted, you can obtain a new copyright, and sell a new translated Bible for thousands of dollars and place your name upon God’s holy Bible. This is the situation we have today.
With today’s internet, it isn’t difficult to read direct from Greek or Hebrew bibles from sites such as Biblehub.com. It only takes a couple clicks to reference changes from these bibles into which ever Bible a person chooses to read from. Indeed, every Bible that I have referenced has, at some point, mistranslated the Greek and Hebrew texts. This doesn’t mean we can’t discern the word of God, we can, especially with the aid of the Holy Spirit.
“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” John 14:26
ref: 7 Things to know about the Bible: Why So Many Bibles? Ebook by Don Nordstrom.
Hi Don, I recommend you listen to some lectures by Dr. James White on the reliability of our Bible and the King James Only cult. I recommend these:
https://youtu.be/05aK7itUvho
https://youtu.be/L4usirZN-vs
https://youtu.be/Eh3k_A9ugOo
I also recommend you read my book: https://www.amzn.com/B089M1D947
I would also recommend you read the guidelines for posting comments which is here…
https://christiananswerman.com/about-posting-comments/
God bless,
Pastor Mark