The Inclusive Bible: a Progressive garbage translation
Mar 7, 2025
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The discussion takes a critical look at an 'Inclusive Bible' translation, accusing it of misrepresenting scripture to fit feminist and LGBT narratives. Key passages from Ephesians and Leviticus are scrutinized for their alterations that may distort original meanings. Concerns are raised about replacing masculine terms with inclusive alternatives, questioning the impact on God's representation. The analysis dives into the complexities of titles like 'Son of Man' and critiques unconventional portrayals in Genesis, highlighting how progressive translations may challenge traditional interpretations.
33:25
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Quick takeaways
The Inclusive Bible significantly alters key biblical texts, undermining historical accuracy and theological integrity in its attempt to promote egalitarian ideals.
The podcast criticizes the deliberate replacement of traditional terms and concepts with modern alternatives, challenging longstanding interpretations of gender and divinity in scripture.
Deep dives
Critique of the Inclusive Bible's Trustworthiness
The Inclusive Bible is described as an inadequate translation, lacking historical accuracy and scholarly rigor. It aims to present an egalitarian perspective but does so through substantial alterations to the original text, which undermines its credibility. Specific examples, such as the reinterpretation of Genesis 1:27 to emphasize humankind instead of the traditionally recognized male and female, illustrate this tendency to distort meaning for ideological purposes. Such modifications are considered reckless, as they stray from the traditional interpretations upheld by historical religious doctrines.
Misrepresentation of Key Biblical Narratives
The podcast highlights significant misinterpretations and misrepresentations within the Inclusive Bible, particularly in the creation narrative in Genesis. For instance, the term 'earth creature' is employed instead of 'man' or 'Adam', suggesting a genderless entity that undermines the intended male-female dynamic inherent in the original account. This linguistic choice, along with the introduction of phrases like 'fitting companion for it,' dilutes the unique roles assigned to Adam and Eve in traditional scripture. Such changes reflect a broader agenda to erase gender distinctions that are foundational within biblical texts.
Altering Scriptural Authority and Structure
Key passages that establish authority and structure in relationships are manipulated in the Inclusive Bible, particularly in the New Testament. In 1 Corinthians 11, the interpretation shifts from the clear assertion of male headship in relationships to framing such authority as merely a perspective of the Corinthians rather than Paul's teaching. This revisionist approach not only misleads readers about the theological content but also raises questions about the text's fidelity to the original Greek. The lack of traditional scholarly footnotes further obscures these innovative interpretations, leaving readers without critical context necessary for understanding.
Progressive Ideology and Feminist Themes
The podcast underscores how the Inclusive Bible incorporates progressive and feminist ideologies into its translation. It often replaces traditional terms like 'Father' with 'Abba God' or 'Loving God' to diminish patriarchal connotations, as seen in how Jesus is referred to with alternative titles instead of 'Son of God.' This deliberate shift presents a challenge to traditional understandings of divinity and complicates theological discussions surrounding God's nature. Ultimately, this agenda-driven translation process is criticized for being more about conforming biblical teachings to contemporary social norms rather than faithfully representing the text.
This is embarrassingly bad and genuinely blasphemous.
My Women in Ministry Series which goes into all of this stuff and handles serious scholarship on both sides (part 10 is the one about 1 Cor 11): Click Here