NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more:
24 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Philippians 3:4 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more:
26 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also. If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more:
26 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
though I could have confidence in my own effort if anyone could. Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more!
27 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
even though we can list what many might think are impressive credentials. You know my pedigree:
16 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
although I myself might have confidence even in the flesh. If anyone else has a mind to put confidence in the flesh, I far more:
25 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
24 words
KJV
26 words
ESV
26 words
NLT
27 words
MSG
16 words
NASB
25 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Philippians 3:4?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Philippians 3:4 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 3:4 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.