NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
13 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Philippians 1:24 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.
11 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account.
12 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live.
12 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
. But most days, because of what you are going through, I am sure that it's better for me to stick it out here.
24 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.
13 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
13 words
KJV
11 words
ESV
12 words
NLT
12 words
MSG
24 words
NASB
13 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Philippians 1:24?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Philippians 1:24 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 Philippians 1:24 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.