NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law.
15 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Romans 3:28 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.
16 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.
15 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
So we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law.
15 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
We've finally figured it out. Our lives get in step with God and all others by letting him set the pace, not by proudly or anxiously trying to run the parade.
31 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the Law.
16 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
15 words
KJV
16 words
ESV
15 words
NLT
15 words
MSG
31 words
NASB
16 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Romans 3:28?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Romans 3:28 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 Romans 3:28 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.