by Ester yusufu | 14 March 2023 08:46 pm03
Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Today, let’s reflect on the history of the King James Bible—not just as a historical artifact, but as a testimony to God’s providence and how He uses willing hearts to preserve His Word for future generations.
King James of England, though not a perfect man or the most celebrated king of his time, made one decision that forever shaped the world of Christianity—he approved the translation of a new Bible that came to be known as the King James Version (KJV).
In 1604, a group of Puritan scholars approached him with a proposal: to create a new English Bible translation that removed human commentary and stayed true to the original texts. The then-popular Geneva Bible had helpful notes, but those notes also carried political criticisms and theological biases that often stirred division.
Surprisingly, King James didn’t reject their proposal—as many rulers might have. Instead, he supported it fully and even funded the translation process. This is a reminder that God can use even earthly rulers to fulfill His divine plans.
Proverbs 21:1 says:
“The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.”
This verse reminds us that God is sovereign over kings, governments, and history. King James’ openness to the Holy Scriptures was not accidental—it was part of God’s design to preserve and spread His Word.
The translators worked for seven years, involving over 47 scholars. They translated directly from Hebrew (Old Testament) and Greek (New Testament) manuscripts, aiming to stay as faithful as possible to the original meaning.
One of the key strengths of the KJV is its faithfulness to the original texts and its avoidance of human commentary. It allowed Scripture to interpret itself—a principle rooted in Scripture itself.
2 Timothy 3:16–17
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
God’s Word doesn’t need to be improved by man—it needs to be understood, obeyed, and proclaimed. The translators of the KJV understood this and honored God by letting Scripture speak plainly and powerfully.
By 1611, the King James Bible was complete and began to spread across Europe and the world. Despite its humble beginnings, it became the most published and read version of the Bible in history. That legacy continues even today.
This is a picture of what God can do with simple obedience. King James may not have known the full impact of his decision, but his cooperation with God’s people led to a work that would affect generations.
1 Samuel 15:22
“Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.”
Obedience—even in something that seems small—can have eternal value when it’s rooted in honoring God.
While many kings and queens have ruled and passed away—leaving behind temporary legacies—King James’ name remains known today because he honored God’s Word. His decision contributed to something eternal.
We, too, are invited to live lives that leave a mark not just on earth, but in heaven. When we put God first, no matter our position or background, He promises to remember us.
Malachi 3:16–17
“Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him… And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts.”
This reminds us that God remembers those who honor Him. Our service, reverence, and obedience are never wasted. They become part of an eternal legacy.
King James made a choice that aligned with God’s purposes, and that choice has touched millions of lives. His story shows that you don’t have to be perfect or powerful to be used by God—you just need a heart that honors Him.
Whether you’re rich or poor, famous or unknown, God is looking for people who will take His Word seriously, live by it, and share it.
Matthew 6:33
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
May we be those who seek God’s Kingdom first, honor His Word above all, and trust Him with our legacy.
God bless you.
Come, Lord Jesus.
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2023/03/14/what-can-we-learn-from-the-history-of-the-king-james-bible/
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