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Question: Who were the translators of the King James Bible?

Answer: God brought together over 54 of the finest Bible translators English has ever known, to translate the King James Bible.

Researching the Translators
For twenty years (the late 1830s to the late 1850s) researcher Alexander McClure pored over records to learn all he could about who translated the King James Bible. His resulting book, Translators Revived: Biographical Notes on the King James Version Translators, stands as a monument to these dedicated Christian men. It may be read online at www.books.google.com. I highly recommend it.

A Few Short Examples
Here are some of the qualified translators of the King James Bible.

John Harman, M.A., New College, Oxford.
In 1585 he had been appointed King’s Professor of Greek. He had published Latin translations of Calvin’s and Beza’s sermons, and was also adept in Greek. He was a member of the New Testament group that met at Oxford.

John Spencer
At 19 years of age he had been elected Greek lecturer for Corpus Christi College in Oxford University. It was written of him, “Of his eminent scholarship there can be no question.” He was a member of the New Testament group (Romans through Jude) that met at Westminster.

Thomas Bilson
McClure wrote that he was “so complete in divinity, so well skilled in languages, so read in the Fathers and Schoolmen, so judicious in making use of his readings, that at length he was found to be no longer a soldier, but commander in chief in the spiritual warfare” (Translators Revived, pp. 214-416).

Dr. George Abbot, B.D., D.D.
Dr. Abbot started at Oxford in 1578, getting his B.D. in 1593 and at 35 years of age both received his doctorate and became first Master of University College, and later Vice Chancellor. He became Bishop of Lichfield in 1609 and Archbishop of Canterbury in 1611. He was regarded as “the head of the Puritans within the Church of England.” He was in the Oxford New Testament group.

Sir Henry Saville
In 1565 Sir Saville was Fellow of Merton College and Warden in 1585. By 1596 he was Provost of Eton College and tutor to Queen Elizabeth I. He founded the Savillian professorships of Mathematics and Astronomy at Oxford. His many works include an 8-volume set of the writings of Chrysostom.(1) He also worked in the New Testament group at Oxford.

Lancelot Andrewes
From Terence H. Brown, (Secretary of the Trinitarian Bible Society, London, England) comes this description of Westminster committee member Lancelot Andrewes:

He “… had his early education at Coopers Free School and Merchant Taylors School, where his rapid progress in the study of the ancient languages was brought to the notice of Dr. Watts, the founder of some scholarships at Pembroke Hall, Cambridge. Andrewes was sent to that College, where he took his B.A. degree and soon afterward was elected Fellow. He then took his Master’s degree and began to study divinity and achieved great distinction as a lecturer. He was raised to several positions of influence in the Church of England and distinguished himself as a diligent and excellent preacher, and became Chaplain to Queen Elizabeth I. King James I promoted him to be Bishop of Chester in 1605 and also gave him the influential position of Lord Almoner. He later became Bishop of Ely and Privy Counsellor. Toward the end of his life he was made Bishop of Winchester.

“It is recorded that Andrewes was a man of deep piety and that King James had such great respect for him that in his presence he refrained from the levity in which he indulged at other times. A sermon preached at Andrewes’ funeral in 1626 paid tribute to his great scholarship:

‘His knowledge in Latin, Greek, Hebrew, Chaldee, Syriac and Arabic, besides fifteen modern languages was so advanced that he may be ranked as one of the rarest linguists in Christendom. A great part of five hours every day he spent in prayer, and in his last illness he spent all his time in prayer — and when both voice and eyes and hands failed in their office, his countenance showed that he still prayed and praised God in his heart, until it pleased God to receive his blessed soul to Himself.'”

Transcending Their Human Limits

Gustavus S. Paine, author of The Men Behind the King James Version, made this assessment about the work of the combined translators:

“Though we may challenge the idea of word-by-word inspiration, we surely must conclude that these were men able, in their profound moods, to transcend their human limits. In their own words, they spake as no other men spake because they were filled with the Holy Ghost. Or, in the clumsier language of our time, they so adjusted themselves to each other and to the work as to achieve a unique coordination and balance, functioning thereafter as an organic entity–no mere mechanism equal to the sum of its parts, but a whole greater than all of them.” (2)

While these scholars were perfectly suited for the task of translation individually, they still had to agree on every single word of the Bible. That meant man’s mere opinion could not be allowed to stand in the text.

The One Who Started It All

But these translators were standing on the shoulders of great men and Christians who went before them. And one man did more for the English Bible than any single person before or since: William Tyndale. He was ordained a priest around his late teens, in 1502. By 1515 he had earned his M.A. at Oxford and later transferred to Cambridge. It was there that he came upon the preserved Greek New Testament of Erasmus, and at the same time as Martin Luther, he came to understand the truth of the gospel. Tyndale began preaching and teaching the gospel message, which made the Roman Catholics angry with him, branding him a heretic. One day, while proving a “learned” Roman Catholic scholar wrong, the papist cried out, “It were better for us to be without God’s laws, than without the Pope’s!” To which Tyndale prophetically replied,

“I defy the Pope, and all his laws; and if God spare my life, ere many years, I will cause a boy that driveth the plough to know more of the Scripture than you do!”

This changed Tyndale forever. He wrote about this incident,

“Which thing only moved me to translate the New Testament. Because I had perceived by experience, how that it was impossible to establish the lay people in any truth, except the Scriptures were plainly laid before their eyes in the mother tongue” (Translators Revived, p. 23).

Tyndale was well suited to his task. Spalatin, a friend of Martin Luther, wrote this in his diary of what professor Herman Buschius told him about Tyndale and his New Testament:

“The work was translated by an Englishman staying there with two others,–a man so skilled in the seven languages, Hebrew, Greek, Latin, Italian, Spanish, English, and French, that which-ever he spake, you would suppose it his native tongue” (Translators Revived, pp. 27-28)

By the time Tyndale was betrayed by his friend, imprisoned and nearly frozen during a cold winter in his cell, he had translated the New Testament into English, along with some Old Testament books, and had trained at least two others to carry on his work. But he wasn’t finished, even when burnt at the stake on October 6, 1536, he cried out prophetically:

“Lord! Open the King of England’s eyes” (Dr. William Grady, Final Authority, p. 137)

That very day a copy of Tyndale’s New Testament was being printed by the King’s own printer!

Conclusion
Tyndale’s work of translation was so excellent, that easily 70% of the words of the Bible are Tyndale’s. God had set the standard. Over the next century, God’s preserved words were translated and revised by many scholars, a great many “good translations.” These, along with God’s preserved words in Italian, Spanish, French, Dutch and other languages were all “good translations.” But the goal of the king’s translators of 1604-1611 was not to write a new Bible from scratch, nor was it to make a translation from the Roman Catholic perversions:

“Truly, good Christian Reader, we never thought from the beginning that we should need to make a new translation, nor yet to make of a bad one a good one; … but to make a good one better, or out of many good ones one principal good one, not justly to be excepted against; that hath been our endeavor, that our mark” (The Translators to the Reader, 1611 KJV, ninth page).

And that is exactly what God did. Throughout history God preserved His words. And, culminating with over 54 dedicated, learned Christian men, God put His words in English in its perfection in one final translation: The King James Bible.

May God bless you as you read His preserved words in English, the King James Bible.


Footnotes

  1. Chrysostom was a 4th century Greek-speaking minister and writer.
  2. Gustavus Paine, The Men Behind the King James Version, p. 173, quoted in Crowned With Glory: The Bible from Ancient Text to Authorized Version by Thomas Holland, p. 90 (Emphasis mine).

More on the Bible Versions here.

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Apostasy

Jacked Up Jezebel Rebuked [podcast]


“Jezebel is a widely rampant spirit of rebellion that is hard to get rid of, rooted in pride, self-will, and self-sufficiency. Only the LORD can deliver but only if the individual truly repents and submits to Him, to His Word.” Anita Villarreal

Any person defending this jezebel heresy that women can be pastors, elders over men, is under the control of Satan, period. And in need of true repentance (James 4:7).

—-There are NO female apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, or teachers under the New Testament (Ephesians 4:8, 11-12). Jesus gave these “gifts unto MEN.” (Ephesians 4:8) There is not even one woman mentioned in 27 books as an elder over Christ’s flock. Such is clearly forbidden (1 Timothy 2:11-12). In Acts 21:9 we read of Phillip’s daughters which “did prophesy” which is a gift of the Spirit (one of the nine-1 Corinthians 12:7-10). The office gifts are eldership functions for men called to be overseers over Christ’s flock, which is completely different than the gifts of the Spirit which every believer can function in and certainly women are seen doing such as Phillip’s daughters and how women are mentioned concerning operating in the gifts of the Spirit in 1 Corinthians 14.

Classic case of a jezebel lashing out when the Word of GOD corrects her (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Her rebellion is against God. Jezebel is utterly rebellious. She hates what God’s Word says and so the demons that control jezebels will lash out in personal attacks against the men who stand on the truth unwaveringly (such as did Elijah whom Jezebel sought to kill).

“Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.” 1 Timothy 2:11-14

“As I look around America I ask myself who can find a virtuous woman? Whose whole life is surrendered to God. And centered in the fear of the Lord. No woman will submit to their husbands unless they first submit to God. Ephesians 5:22 says women are to submit to their husbands, “as unto the Lord.” That must come first. And what is a great price in the sight of God? A woman who has a meek and quiet spirit (1 Peter 3:4). This is true beauty to God. But Jezebels are the complete opposite. Full of rebellion, pride and hatred! God says throw her down!” Karen Cochran

From the divine perspective, this is not about oppression but rather about protect. See Revelation 2:20-24 to see what Jesus warns when a woman is allowed to lead as an elder in the body of Christ. He uses the words “The depths of Satan” and speaks of the death and destruction that will result when the men allow a woman to lead in a manner that is outside of the stated role God ordained for the woman.

Yes the LORD said He will pour out His Spirit on all flesh, sons and daughter, but not to anoint a woman to do something HE forbids. Women are to teach women yes but not the general body of believers (Titus 2:1-5). There are NO female elders in the New Testament. God forbids it. Eldership is reserved for men – to humbly teach, lead and protect and cherish women and children.

“There’s a crazy role reversal across the land and men should always lead. Even our women’s prayer group was led by the pastor because that’s what he believed. Women are more emotional and men more logical. Both have their designated roles . God meant them to compliment each other rather than to compete.” John Umlauf

When people don’t like what God’s Word states, they will attack the mere messenger as if that changes the truth. Not. And, they heap judgment on themselves by doing so (Matthew 7:1-5; James 2:13). Persecution

“For we are not as many, which corrupt (twist, adulterate) the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.” 2 Corinthians 2:17

“He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.” John 8:47  

“Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.” Proverbs 13:13

Jesus Addresses the Ahabs and Self-Appointed Jezebel at the Church at Thyatira

Revelation 2:20-24

Revelation 2:20-24 is about a certain self-appointed woman who was allowed by the spineless men in Thyatira to operate out of the biblically-stated order for women in the church setting.

Rev 2:20  Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. 
Rev 2:21  And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. 
Rev 2:22  Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. 
Rev 2:23  And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. 
Rev 2:24  But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. 

Jezebel Category

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Family | Godly Manhood | Women

Proverbs 31 Woman

The Importance, the Blessing of the Family Dinner Table [podcast]

God’s Education vs Satan’s Indoctrination [podcast]

Preacher Vicioiusly Attacked for Speaking the Truth! [podcast]

Jezebel Unmasked! Invasion of the Warrior Princess Jezebels [podcast]

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Articles

Gospel Action in Mexico Part 36 [video]

Your prayers and giving are bolstering Christ’s work as we look for His soon return (Luke 12:40; 21:28).

Real people receiving real help, the Gospel, real love from God through the body of Christ (John 13:34-35; Romans 5:5).


Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, please break me! Please crush me dear LORD. YOU are my Potter. Pour the water of Your Holy Spirit and Word upon this life You made and saved for Your glory, not mine. I love You Jesus! Let this heart be broken, contrite, and let tears flow from a poor and pure heart that hungers and thirsts after Your righteousness. In the name of my LORD Jesus, amen.


Would you like to pause and lift Moises up in prayer to our LORD?

After seeing and hearing me preaching our LORD’s Word to others and give the JESUS tracts (in Spanish), this man called me over, asking about the Gospel!

Moises was excited to hear you would be praying for him.

Mission Mexico


Ajijic Mexico – Lake Chapala. Largest lake in Mexico


Declaring Christ’s Gospel to 5 young men who as usual were super receptive. “How shall they hear without a preacher?” (Romans 10:14)


“He nailed it. Community has been lost in America. Just today I was at the store and thought we don’t look each other in the eyes anymore. Then I thought the very next person I see I will make it a point to smile and look them in the eyes. But sadly the next person was on his phone. The connection with each other has been lost. And do people even realize it? No it doesn’t seem like it! Their phones now consume their lives.” Karen Cochran


Mr. Sammy is 81 years old and looks fabulous for his age.


Support Mission Mexico here. Takes seconds.


Josefina is a born again Christian and was very appreciative to know you will be pausing to lift her in prayer.



Taselo is this beloved man’s name. He received the Gospel, spoken and in print formats.



Here is Alfredo with his family. Thank you for pausing to lift this family in prayer.



Your prayers and support are making this happen. God is working in the lives of many who are being reached daily here in beautiful Mexico. Our LORD is moving on the hearts of the beautiful people of Mexico. John 12:32; Luke 19:10, etc.




“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10

Mission Mexico – See more here.


Download. Read. Print out your supply of the JESUS tract – English and Spanish.

Support Mission Mexico here. Takes seconds.

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Apostasy

Racism: Nation Rising Against Nation [radio]

Nation Shall Rise Against Nation


Laboring in the Spirit, not the Flesh

“Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.”  Jude 21   

It’s not about the color or your skin, it’s about what kingdom you’re in!

What Should be the Response of the Body of Christ? – LOVE!

Reading 1 Corinthians 13 each morning this week is a life changer. Nothing in our lives is going to work out right if we don’t prayerfully endeavor to walk in God’s love – loving God and our neighbor, above ourselves. I love pouring prayerfully over 1 Corinthians 13 and Philippians 2:3-5. Life changing is an understatement!

Racism is hatred and is not a skin color. It is a heart condition – coming from a sinful heart. Memorize Romans 2:11.

In the time of tribulation for the believers at Thessalonica, the Holy Spirit spoke through Paul and said this:

“And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.” 2 Thessalonians 3:5

By this we know of a certainty that the Holy Spirit is leading, directing our “hearts into the LOVE of God” and not the flesh, not a fleshly response. We now face tribulation and can be assured by this truth that our unchanging God is directing our hearts into His love and not hatred.

This is a divine truth for every era, every hour…. and we sure know that sin is exponentially abounding in this late hour…. which means divine grace is even greater – to save, heal, bless, deliver, and make whole!!!!

“But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:” Romans 5:20

Here’s more evidence of God’s leading His people into the love walk in trying times:

“But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. 8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:7-8

Any person who does not walk in God’s love is not saved and we know that from many Scriptures. No hate, no hater shall enter Christ’s kingdom, no matter what justification that sinner thinks he has to warrant hating anyone. “He that loveth not knoweth not God.” (1 John 4:8) “Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” (1 John 3:15)

When His disciples ask Him “what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?”, Jesus gave them this answer:

“And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. 6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation (ethnic group) shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. 10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” Matthew 24:4-13

“Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. 5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.” 2 Timothy 2:3-5

The Church began, will end as containing precious souls from every nation, kindred, and tongue (Acts 2; Revelation 5:9; 14:6).

The New Testament church began with men from every nation under Heaven and will be the same throughout eternity in glory.

Acts 2:1-13

“And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;” Revelation 5:9

Nation/ethnos, ethnic yes…groups at odds was foretold by Jesus – Matthew 24:7

Yes we can be at peace, Jesus told us to fear not and to be at peace …..

John 14:27  Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. 

John 16:33  These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

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