NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.
15 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Colossians 4:5 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
11 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time.
12 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity.
15 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
Use your heads as you live and work among outsiders. Don't miss a trick. Make the most of every opportunity.
20 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity.
12 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
15 words
KJV
11 words
ESV
12 words
NLT
15 words
MSG
20 words
NASB
12 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Colossians 4:5?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Colossians 4:5 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 4:5 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.