What is the Modern King James Version (MKJV)?

Answer

When individuals search for the “modern King James Version,” they are seeking either “Is there a more updated version of the KJV?” or “What is the Modern King James Version?” specifically referring to the Bible translation recognized as the MKJV.

Regarding the inquiry “Is there a more updated version of the KJV?” the response is a definite “yes.” There have been various efforts to modernize the language utilized in the King James Version. The two most renowned are the New King James Version and the 21st Century King James Version. Apart from these, there are also the Third Millennium Bible, the American King James Version, the Updated King James Version, the New Authorized Version, the King James Version—Corrected Edition, and numerous others. Most recently, the Modern English Version was introduced in 2014.

As for the question “What is the Modern King James Version?” there exists a specific revision of the KJV recognized as the Modern King James Version, commonly abbreviated as MKJV. The revision work was carried out by Jay P. Green between 1962 and 1998, with several editions being published. Green’s objective was to eliminate the outdated language of the KJV, to accommodate the changes in the meanings of English words since the KJV was translated, to rectify some inadequate renderings, and to amend the text where the KJV translators paraphrased the Hebrew or Greek text instead of translating it literally.

Why have there been numerous endeavors to produce a more contemporary version of the KJV, and why have none of them genuinely supplanted the KJV? Among all the efforts, only the NKJV has achieved a reasonable level of success in replacing the KJV. The issue has not been with the caliber of the attempted revisions (although not all should be regarded as quality translations). The challenge lies in the significant influence that the King James Only Movement still wields. Their fervent allegiance is to the precise English text of the King James Version, notTo the Textus Receptus, or to a literal Bible translation. The King James Only Movement’s refusal to even consider any revisions or updates to the KJV and the hostility they express towards anyone who even attempts to revise the KJV have hindered any of the modern versions from replacing the KJV.

Modern King James Version – Sample Verses

John 1:1, 14 – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.”

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

John 8:58 – “Jesus said to them, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.’”

Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”

Titus 2:13 – “looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.”