A Readers's NET Bible Review

Marty wrote: 

All I was really looking for was a software Bible that I could have on my laptop when I couldn't connect to the Internet. There is a plethora of sites for any Bible version online nowadays, but they are no help when not connected. I first found eSword and I love it, especially because I'm not wealthy and can't run out and spend $200-300 on software every time I really need something.

 AND THEN I SOMEHOW FOUND THE NET BIBLE. And I was skeptical at the start, since I was unfamiliar with the translation. I don't understand why, because I know about every other. My discovery came at the perfect time, because even though I do like the NIV and have used it for years, it's just not a very memorable read. I also fear their upcoming revision, as I know much of what will be in it.

 I wanted something that has the same level of inspired phrasing as my trusty old KJV, and the more I read the NET Bible the more I'm convinced it's the one. The NET is making me re-think and re-study many verses. The notes are like a lay scholar's guide at my fingertips. Most of all, the wording is very "fresh," memorable and -- I don't know how else to say it -- "comfortable."

 It answers for me the question of "what next" after having already read my Bible dozens of times.

As a former Editor of news and journalism of many years, I can easily see the careful thought that went into rendering the various MSS sources into truly well-composed English.

 Congratulations -- but also, shame on you, because now I'm just not going to be able to get by without obtaining a really nice hard copy of this!

As we say in the business, "This is excellent 'copy'."