How is your favorite Bible passage translated in versions other than the one which you normally use? In this survey, John 3: 16 is considered, using sixty-eight versions. No two that are quoted are completely alike. The difference may only be one word with some. When two or more versions are exactly the same, reference is made to another one which is listed. Perhaps, as you read this listing, you will find some whose wording that you like and others that you find awkward. A few footnotes and a summary conclude the comparison.

In the sixty-eight versions used, there are sixty-two ways of writing this verse. On close examination, it will be seen that there is very little difference in meaning among most of them. A few show a little difference.

If the meaning of what is said is the important factor, most of the versions may be considered as being correct. If the exact translation of the words from the original Greek is the important factor, most of the versions are wrong. Which version, then, is the correct one?

Some Christians state that God quoted directly to the original author. If so, something has happened by the time that the current translators completed their work. Some Christians state that the Bible is inerrant. Does this mean inerrant in thought or in exact wording? Some Christians question whether what the authors of the four Gospels wrote is historically accurate or is descriptively created.

This passage is a favorite for memorization. It also contains an important theological message. There are many ways of quoting it without distorting its meaning. Thus, those who claim to be Christians need to avoid their theological biases as they read this verse in order to comprehend it.