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BYU professor Josh Sears on understanding and using Bible translations

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Jan 6, 2026

Guest

Josh Sears

In this engaging discussion, Josh Sears, an associate professor of ancient scripture at BYU, delves into his passion for biblical scholarship. He explores the evolution of Bible translations, from ancient texts to modern versions, emphasizing their accessibility and importance in understanding doctrine. Sears shares practical family strategies for scripture study, highlighting the value of using diverse translations for richer dialogues. He also underscores how clear language aids in discipleship and fosters deeper connections to Christ.

45:36

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INSIGHT

Scripture Translation Is Historically Layered

Scripture translation is an ancient, ongoing process because languages change and earlier revelations were already translated into later tongues.
Josh Sears traces translations from early Hebrew through the Septuagint, Vulgate, and modern updates to show continuity in accessibility efforts.

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ADVICE

Compare Translations Using Free Tools

Use free websites and apps to compare translations side-by-side so you can study without buying new print editions.
Click into Hebrew or Greek tools on those sites when you want deeper word-study and lexical context.

insights

INSIGHT

Modern Editions Clarify Meaning And Form

Modern translations can improve accuracy using better manuscripts and updated language understanding.
They also format poetry, paragraphs, and punctuation to make meaning and structure clearer to today's readers.

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Josh Sears' biblical scholarship background

01:07 • 2min

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Balancing academic and devotional study

03:06 • 1min

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Joseph Smith and the King James Version

04:22 • 41sec

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History of Bible translation and accessibility

05:04 • 7min

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Language change and church translations

11:51 • 2min

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Where to find modern translations

14:07 • 3min

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Benefits of modern translations

16:49 • 4min

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Scriptures' purpose and the Holy Ghost

20:37 • 4min

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Practical family strategies for Come, Follow Me

24:20 • 4min

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Benefits of multi-age family scripture study

28:19 • 2min

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Using mission languages in lifelong study

30:29 • 4min

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Opening dialogue through varied translations

34:05 • 3min

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Church leaders' use of multiple translations

36:54 • 2min

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Translations' role in facilitating discipleship

39:21 • 2min

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