DESCRIPTION

In late 1997, evangelical Christians were embroiled in a heated controversy over a proposed inclusive-language version of the popular NIV translation of the Bible. The controversy produced strong words, angered constituencies, and much confusion for the church at large. In response to that controversy and the substantial issues it has raised, leading evangelical Bible scholar D. A. Carson offers this first book-length treatment of the matter, presenting a balanced look at the use of gender-neutral language in Bible translation.

Dr. Carson describes the recent controversy before addressing the larger issue of what can and cannot be expected from Bible translations. He explores the inherent difficulties of any type of translation and offers a thorough discussion of the various ways cultures and languages handle gender.

Dr. Carson then takes a careful walk through disputed Old and New Testament passages, offering careful translations of difficult phrases. He pays special attention to passages that have significant doctrinal implications and concludes with a discussion of whether or not the English language is changing. A final chapter offers pastoral direction to the reader.

Pastors, Bible students, missionary translators, and anyone concerned with the role of inclusive language in church and culture will find thought-provoking insight in this issue, which affects all who read and value the Bible.

The Inclusive-Language Debate was awarded a Christianity Today Book Award in 1999