NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
19 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Colossians 3:10 — 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 have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
20 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.
19 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.
19 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
Now you're dressed in a new wardrobe. Every item of your new way of life is custom-made by the Creator, with his label on it. All the old fashions are now obsolete.
32 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
and have put on the new self who is being renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him--
25 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
19 words
KJV
20 words
ESV
19 words
NLT
19 words
MSG
32 words
NASB
25 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Colossians 3:10?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Colossians 3:10 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 3:10 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.