"Why REB Translation of the Bible for John 10:9"
Letter to the Editor:
GOD’S MESSAGE, July 2000, p.2
IS THE RENDITION of the Revised English Bible of John 10:9, which states that man must enter into the fold in order to be saved, the precise translation of this verse? Is this 100% correct?
Are the New International Version, King James Version, Revised Standard Version, and all the other Bible versions that do not directly state that entering into the fold (which can mean the church) is needed for man to be saved wrong? Are all these Bible versions (except the REB) that tell a person to enter the door or gate which symbolizes Christ and not His Church 100% wrong in their translation of John 10:9?
Trica Adle
South Cotabato
South Cotabato
Editor’s reply:
There is nothing wrong with the renditions of John 10:9 in the RSV, KJV, or NIV since they convey the message of Christ that man must enter the fold or flock to be saved. The gate or the door, as stated in different renditions of the Bible, is Christ (Jn. 10:9). But one cannot enter the physical body of Christ. Instead, he must join the Church which is mentioned in the Bible as His body (Rom. 12:4-5; Col. 1:18; Rom. 16:16). Entering Christ means entering His body which is the Church of Christ.
We use the Revised English Bible’s rendition of John 10:9 because it further clarifies Christ’s teaching that people should join the Church of Christ which is equivalent to entering the fold through Him (Jn. 10:16; Acts 20:28, Lamsa Translation).
Entering is not merely professing faith in Christ. Faith in Christ requires works one of which is entering Him or becoming a member of His body or Church (I Cor. 12:27; Col. 1:18).
Apostle Paul emphasized the relationship of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Church. Christ is the head of the Church and the Church is the body of Christ (Eph. 5:23, 25). Therefore, salvation can only be attained through Christ by entering His body or the true Church.
Note: Some words and phrases are in bold & italics for emphasis.
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