NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.
22 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Philippians 3:17 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
19 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.
21 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example.
17 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
Stick with me, friends. Keep track of those you see running this same course, headed for this same goal.
19 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us.
19 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
22 words
KJV
19 words
ESV
21 words
NLT
17 words
MSG
19 words
NASB
19 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Philippians 3:17?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Philippians 3:17 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 3:17 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.