NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments.
14 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Colossians 2:4 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.
13 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments.
14 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
I am telling you this so no one will deceive you with well-crafted arguments.
14 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
I'm telling you this because I don't want anyone leading you off on some wild-goose chase, after other so-called mysteries, or "the Secret."
23 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
I say this so that no one will delude you with persuasive argument.
13 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
14 words
KJV
13 words
ESV
14 words
NLT
14 words
MSG
23 words
NASB
13 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Colossians 2:4?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Colossians 2:4 in 6 translations: New International Version, King James Version, English Standard Version, New Living Translation, The Message, New American Standard Bible. Each uses a different translation philosophy — from word-for-word (KJV, ESV, NASB) to thought-for-thought (NIV, NLT) to paraphrase (MSG).
Which translation of Colossians 2:4 is best?
No single translation is "best" — it depends on your purpose. For deep study, use the ESV or NASB (word-for-word). For devotional reading, the NIV balances accuracy and readability. The NLT and MSG are excellent for understanding the general meaning in modern English. Comparing multiple translations helps grasp the full richness of the text.
What is the difference between literal and dynamic Bible translations?
Literal (formal equivalence) translations like KJV, ESV, and NASB translate word-for-word from the original Hebrew/Greek. Dynamic equivalence translations like NIV and NLT translate thought-for-thought for clarity. The MSG is a paraphrase that captures the spirit in contemporary language. Each approach has strengths — that's why comparing translations is valuable.