Doug Moo, Wheaton College
From the official minutes:
Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary President Paul Wendland presented the report of the Translation Evaluation Committee. He introduced the members of the committee and explained the reason why the question of Bible translations is before the convention. He emphasized that the choice of a translation is not a doctrinal issue.
He asserted that a word-for-word translation is not possible from one language to another and that there is no perfect translation.
Three known reasons motivating the production of the New International Version 2011 (NIV11) were mentioned: Language changes, scholarship advances, and the mission of the Committee on Bible Translation (CBT), which demands that the translation utilize current and common language. Language has changed since the NIV84 was published. Wendland noted that every WELS congregation has the privilege of choosing the translation it wishes to use, but a translation decision is needed for Northwestern Publishing House. The Translation Evaluation Committee made the best use of the time available to them and did spend the most time working with the NIV2011. Gender inclusive language was a concern to the committee.
However the truth regarding male and female roles is clearly taught in NIV2011; it is not a feminist translation. Old Testament verses containing Messianic prophecy were carefully studied. Old Testament pronoun references to God are not capitalized, but that allows each reader to come to their own conclusions. Decision options available to the convention were outlined. In his closing remarks, President Wendland noted how humbling the work on this committee has been for him. He requested that although the matter is very emotional for many, the WELS be able to maintain the unity of the Spirit and the bond of peace as translations are discussed. President Wendland was thanked for his presentation.
Did people laugh Wendland off the stage? Probably not. A translation is not doctrinal, but the Baptists always to after the sacramental passages and wipe them out. They turn the Great Commission, a Gospel admonition, into law - "Go make disciples."
Where is "communion with the body of Christ" in the NIV? Gone. Where is "baptism now saves you." Eliminated.
The classic NIV prepared WELS and Missouri to embrace the Church Growth Movement. The Ninevah - NNIV - will finish the job.
I remember when people scoffed at the Living Bible for inserting the author's own words into the text. Now the WELS Translation Commissars say that is the best way to translate.
Did Wendland mention the lesbian activist who helped with the classic NIV they love so much? I doubt it. Everyone must be overjoyed that the same philosophy will keep the NNIV from straying into political correctness.
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Even McCain, Missouri, and CPH are against the NNIV:
- Major Evangelical Organization Says It Can Not Endorse NIV 2011
- NIV 2011: Proceed With Caution
- Updating the New International Version: Translator’s Notes [revealing the agenda driving this translation]
- Why We Must Avoid Gender Neutrality Like the Plague
- God Inspired Metaphors: Another Key Problem with NIV 2011
- ESV v. NIV
- Is the NIV Really Easier to Understand than the ESV?
- Why Has The LCMS Adopted the ESV as Its Translation of Choice?
