Lecture on Bible Translations: ESV vs. NASB

Introduction

• Recent poll in the Reformed Pub Facebook group on the greatest Bible translation.
  • Top three: ESV, NASB, King James.
  • ESV received 64% of the votes, significantly more popular among Calvinists.
• The speaker prefers and recommends NASB for several reasons, despite appreciating ESV.

Key Advantages of NASB over ESV

1. Highlighting Old Testament References

• Small Caps for OT Citations:
  • NASB uses small caps to highlight when NT writers cite or reference OT.
  • Example: 1 Peter 3:14-15 references Isaiah 8:12.
  • Helps readers identify OT references related to Jesus, enhancing understanding of the deity of Christ.
  • Matthew 21:16 & Philippians 2:10-11 are other examples of OT references in NASB.

2. Use of Italics

• Identifying Added Words:
  • NASB uses italics to show words that are added for clarity but not in original texts.
  • Example: 1 Corinthians 12:1 – "gifts" is italicized to show it's added.
  • Helps readers understand interpretative elements added by translators.
  • Other examples: Hebrews 2:11, interpretation of "father" or "source" not in original Greek.

3. Capitalization of Divine Pronouns

• Respect and Clarity:
  • NASB capitalizes pronouns referring to God, Jesus, Holy Spirit.
  • Adds clarity and reverence, e.g., Isaiah 48:16 – "me" referring to Jesus is capitalized.
  • Useful for theological clarity and maintaining respect in religious texts.

Additional Observations

• Uncertain if NASB's footnotes and cross-references are superior to ESV.
• Both translations have unique strengths; the choice may depend on personal study preferences and needs.

Conclusion

• Speaker encourages consideration of NASB's features for deeper Bible study.
• Emphasizes NASB's focus on clarity and faithfulness to original texts.

These notes cover the main points discussed about the NASB's advantages over ESV in terms of textual clarity, reverence, and interpretative transparency.