Short answer: The four NLT Bibles I recommend are the NLT Life Application Study Bible for practical application, the NLT Study Bible for deeper commentary, the NLT Inspire Bible for journaling and creative readers, and the NLT Personal Size Large Print Bible for easy reading. The NLT itself is a thought-for-thought translation that reads clearly, so it suits new readers and anyone who wants the text to flow.
In This Article
I have had the privilege of shepherding a diverse congregation for over two decades, and I have come to appreciate several Bible translations, including the New Living Translation (NLT). People kept asking which NLT edition to buy, and whether the NLT is a good translation at all. So this article does two things: it explains where the NLT stands among the other versions, then it lists four editions for different needs.
What Is The NLT Bible?
The NLT is a contemporary English translation that aims to be easy to understand. Tyndale House first published it in 1996, and it has been revised more than once to improve its precision while keeping it accessible. The Second Edition, known as the NLTse, came out in 2004. It introduced subtle changes to the translation style, with a focus on keeping natural, contemporary English, and it added a poetic format to many passages, especially the prophetic writings of the Old Testament.
Which Is Better, The NIV Or The NLT?
Neither is better in every way. The NLT is a thought-for-thought translation, so it works hardest on natural English and is the easier read. The NIV is a little closer to the wording of the original, and it is more widely used in churches, so it suits memorization and group study. The NKJV is more formal still, in the tradition of the King James. For a quick comparison, here is how I place the common versions. See also How Many Bible Versions Are There? and Which Bible Should You Read?
| Translation | Approach | Reading Feel |
|---|---|---|
| NASB, ESV, KJV, NKJV | Formal, word-for-word | Closer to the original wording |
| CSB | Optimal equivalence, in the middle | Readable and fairly literal |
| NIV | Balanced, leaning thought-for-thought | Smooth and widely used |
| NLT | Thought-for-thought | Very easy to read |
The version nearest the NLT in approach is the NIV, with the CSB close behind. For my review of the CSB, see Christian Standard Bible Review.
What Are Some Criticisms Of The NLT?
The usual criticism is that thought-for-thought translation involves more interpretation by the translators. Where the Hebrew or Greek is ambiguous, the NLT often picks a meaning and states it plainly, and a reader who wants to see the underlying wording may prefer a more formal version for close study. That is a fair point, and it is why I suggest comparing a passage in a second translation when you are building a conviction on one verse. The NLT is not unsound. It is a tool made for readability, and it does that job well.
What Verses Are Left Out Of The NLT?
No verses are cut from the Bible, but like most modern translations the NLT places a few verses in footnotes because the earliest manuscripts do not contain them. Matthew 17:21 is the common example. The KJV prints it in the main text, while the NLT, NIV, ESV and CSB give it in a note. The teaching it holds also appears in Mark 9:29. You can compare it yourself at Matthew 17:21. I discuss how the text has been transmitted in How Many Times Has The Bible Been Rewritten?
Which Bible Version Should I Stay Away From?
I would not steer you away from the NLT, NIV, ESV, CSB, NKJV or KJV. They differ in style, and they all carry the gospel. The ones I would handle with care are editions altered to fit a doctrine, such as the New World Translation, whose rendering of John 1:1 scholars outside that group reject, and paraphrases that add a lot of material to the text. That is my pastoral view, and you should test it against Scripture. When asked about the most accurate translations, I point people to the formal and middle groups in the table above, such as the ESV, NASB, NKJV, CSB and NIV, and I add that the NLT earns its place for clarity.
They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read.
Nehemiah 8:8 (NIV)
What Are The Four Best NLT Bibles?
NLT Life Application Study Bible
The NLT Life Application Study Bible is a personal favorite of mine. It gives the NLT text along with in-depth, practical insight for applying Scripture to daily life. It is a powerful tool for helping people understand God's Word and its relevance to their days. The notes, charts, maps and profiles of key biblical figures help believers deepen their understanding, and it bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and modern life. If you want to know what to expect from a study edition, see What Is A Study Bible?
NLT Study Bible
The NLT Study Bible is another fine resource for those who want a deeper exploration of the Scriptures. It offers commentary, study notes and introductions to each book. It is well suited to pastors, seminary students and anyone who wants to look into the historical and cultural context of the Bible. The clear language means it is not only for scholars, and it can be understood at various levels of biblical knowledge.
NLT Inspire Bible
For readers with a creative streak, the NLT Inspire Bible is a unique option. It combines the NLT text with wide margins for journaling and creative expression, which suits people who enjoy doodling, coloring or taking notes in the margins while they reflect on God's Word. It is a beautiful way to engage with Scripture personally and creatively. If you wonder whether marking a Bible is acceptable, read Is Writing In The Bible A Sin?
NLT Personal Size Large Print Bible
As a pastor who often meets with an aging congregation, I cannot overlook readability. The NLT Personal Size Large Print Bible meets that need well. The large text is easy to read for people with visual impairments or anyone who wants a more pleasant reading experience. The compact size makes it easy to carry to church. It is a natural choice for seniors, and its readability makes it a good option for anyone who likes larger print without losing portability.
Bottom Line
The NLT translation has been a big help during my two decades of pastoring. Whether you want practical insight, in-depth study tools, a canvas for creativity or easier reading, the New Living Translation offers a Bible for the need. Whichever you choose, may it lead you to a deeper understanding of God's Word and a richer relationship with your Creator.
In the end, the best Bible for you is the one that speaks to your heart and helps you on your spiritual journey. I encourage you to explore these options and find the NLT Bible that best fits your needs and preferences.
Key Bible Verses About Reading God's Word
- Nehemiah 8:8: read clearly and give the meaning so people understand
- Psalm 119:130: the unfolding of God's words gives light
- 2 Timothy 3:16: all Scripture is God-breathed and useful
- Psalm 119:105: your word is a lamp for my feet
- Acts 17:11: examine the Scriptures daily
- Joshua 1:8: meditate on the Book of the Law day and night
- 1 Timothy 4:13: devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, NIV or NLT Bible?
Neither wins every time. The NLT is easier to read, and the NIV is slightly closer to the original wording and more widely used in churches. Using both is a good habit.
What are some criticisms of the NLT?
Because it is thought-for-thought, the translators make more interpretive choices, so close study is often better done with a more formal version alongside it. For everyday reading it is sound and clear.
What verses are left out of the NLT?
None are cut, but like other modern versions it places a few verses, such as Matthew 17:21, in footnotes because the earliest manuscripts lack them. Mark 9:29 holds the same teaching.
Which Bible translation is closest to the NLT?
In approach, the NIV is closest, followed by the CSB. Both are readable and a little more tied to the original wording.
Which Bible version fits most closely to the original?
The formal translations such as the NASB, ESV, NKJV and KJV stay closest to the original wording. See How Many Bible Versions Are There? for the wider picture.
