NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
13 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Ephesians 1:16 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;
14 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers,
14 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly,
13 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
I couldn't stop thanking God for you—every time I prayed, I'd think of you and give thanks.
17 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention [of you] in my prayers;
15 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
13 words
KJV
14 words
ESV
14 words
NLT
13 words
MSG
17 words
NASB
15 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Ephesians 1:16?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Ephesians 1:16 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 Ephesians 1:16 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.