Common English Bible Comparison (FYI & GIVEAWAY)

From the Publishers of the CEB:  The Common English Bible is not simply a revision or update of an existing translation. It is a bold new translation designed to meet the needs of Christians as they work to build a strong and meaningful relationship with God through Jesus Christ. 

A key goal of the translation team is to make the Bible accessible to a broad range of people; it’s written at a comfortable level for over half of all English readers. As the translators do their work, reading specialists working with seventy-seven reading groups from more than a dozen denominations review the texts to ensure a smooth and natural reading experience. Easy readability can enhance church worship and participation, and personal Bible study. 

Listed below I've posted two verses one from the CEB {Common English Bible} & one from the NIV {New International Version} to help you judge for yourself.

Genesis 1:1

When God began to create the heavens and the earth—the earth was without shape or form, it was dark over the deep sea, and God’s wind swept over the waters —  CEB

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.  NIV

Matthew 6:9-13

Pray like this:  Our Father who is in heaven,
  uphold the holiness of your name.
Bring in your kingdom
  so that your will is done on earth as                                                    

 it’s done in heaven.
Give us the bread we need for today.
Forgive us for the ways we have wronged you,
  just as we also forgive those who have wronged us.
And don’t lead us into temptation,
  but rescue us from the evil one.  CEB

This, then, is how you should pray:                                                                                                             Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors. 
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one. NIV

Giveaway: The publishers of the Common English Bible are offering one reader a copy of this wonderful Bible.   To enter this giveaway:   leave a comment on which translation you prefer with your email address.  The winner of this giveaway will be picked December 17.

To learn more about the Common English Bible, click HERE!

(I received a copy of the CEB in return for featuring it on my blog.  
Any opinions expressed are mine alone.)