His mother, Mary, was going to marry Joseph. Parents normally arranged the marriages of their children. Alternate Translation: "The parents of Mary, the mother of Jesus, had promised her in marriage to Joseph"
Mat 1:18
His mother, Mary, was engaged
Translate in a way that makes it clear that Jesus was not already born when Mary was engaged to Joseph. Alternate Translation: "Mary, who would be the mother of Jesus, was engaged"
Mat 1:19
Her husband, Joseph
Joseph had not married Mary yet, but when a man and woman promised to marry each other, Jews considered them husband and wife though they did not live together. Alternate Translation: "Joseph, who was supposed to marry Mary" or "Joseph"
Mat 1:22
the prophet
There were many prophets. Matthew was speaking of Isaiah. Alternate Translation: "the prophet Isaiah"
Mat 2:7
what time the star had appeared
It is implied that the learned men told him when the star appeared. Alternate Translation: "what time the star had appeared. The learned men told Herod when the star first appeared"
Mat 2:13
until I tell you
The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "until I tell you it is safe to come back"
Mat 2:15
He remained
It is implied that Joseph, Mary, and Jesus remained in Egypt. Alternate Translation: "They remained"
Mat 2:16
He sent and killed all the male children
Herod did not kill the children himself. Alternate Translation: "He gave orders for his soldiers to kill all the boys" or "He sent soldiers there to kill all the boy babies"
Mat 3:9
We have Abraham for our father
Abraham is our ancestor or "We are descendants of Abraham." The Jewish leaders thought that God would not punish them since they were descendants of Abraham.
Mat 4:13
in the territories of Zebulun and Naphtali
Zebulun and "Naphtali" are the names of the tribes that lived in these territories many years earlier before foreigners took control of the land of Israel.
Mat 4:18
casting a net into the sea
The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "throwing a net into the water to catch fish"
Mat 5:14
A city set on a hill cannot be hidden
At night when it is dark, people can see the city lights shining. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "During the night, no one can hide the lights that shine from a city on a hill" or "Everyone sees the lights of a city on a hill"
Mat 5:18
not one jot or one tittle
The jot was the smallest Hebrew letter, and the tittle was a small mark that was the difference between two Hebrew letters. Alternate Translation: "not even the smallest written letter or the smallest part of a letter"
Mat 5:18
all things
The phrase "all things" refers to everything in the law. Alternate Translation: "everything in the law" or "all that is written in the law"
Mat 5:21
Whoever kills will be in danger of the judgment
Here "the judgment" implies that a judge will condemn the person to die. Alternate Translation: "A judge will condemn anyone who kills another person"
Mat 5:21
will be in danger of the judgment
It seems here Jesus is not referring to a human judge but rather to God condemning the person who is angry with his brother.
Mat 5:23
at the altar
It is implied that this is God's altar at the temple in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "to God at the altar in the temple"
Mat 5:41
Whoever
Anyone who. The context implies that he is speaking about a Roman soldier.
Mat 6:1
before people to be seen by them
It is implied that those who see the person will honor him. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "in front of people just so that they can see you and give you honor for what you have done"
Mat 6:5
so that they may be seen by people
It is implied that those who see them will give them honor. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "so that people will see them and give them honor"
Mat 7:1
Do not judge
It is implied here that "judge" has the strong meaning of "condemn harshly" or "declare guilty." Alternate Translation: "Do not condemn people harshly"
Mat 7:22
in that day
Jesus said "that day" knowing his hearers would understand he was referring to the day of judgment. You should include "the day of judgment" only if your readers would not understand otherwise.
Mat 8:4
show yourself to the priest
Jewish law required that the person show his healed skin to the priest, who would then allow him or her to return to the community, to be with other people.
Mat 8:4
offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony to them
The law of Moses required that someone healed of leprosy give a thanksgiving offering to the priest. When the priest accepted the gift, people would know that the man had been healed. Lepers were ostracized, banned from the community, until they had proof of their healing.
Mat 8:10
I have not found anyone with such faith in Israel
Jesus' hearers would have thought that the Jews in Israel, who claim to be children of God, would have greater faith than anyone. Jesus is saying they are wrong and that the centurion's faith was greater.
Mat 8:16
When evening had come
Because Jews did not work or travel on the Sabbath, "evening" may imply after the Sabbath. They waited until evening to bring people to Jesus. You do not need to mention the Sabbath unless you need to avoid wrong meaning.
Mat 8:31
If you cast us out
It is implied that the demons knew that Jesus was going to cast them out. Alternate Translation: "Because you are going to cast us out"
Mat 9:21
If only I touch his clothes
According to Jewish law, because she was bleeding she was not supposed to touch anyone. She touches his clothes so that Jesus' power would heal her and yet (she thought) he would not know that she touched him.
Mat 9:27
Have mercy on us
It is implied that they wanted Jesus to heal them.
Mat 10:11
stay there until you leave
The full meaning of the statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "stay in that person's house until you leave the town or village"
Mat 10:25
be like his teacher
If necessary, you can make explicit how the disciple becomes like the teacher. Alternate Translation: "know as much as his teacher knows"
Mat 10:25
the servant like his master
If necessary, you can make explicit how the servant becomes like the master. Alternate Translation: "the servant should be satisfied to become only as important as his master"
Mat 11:17
We mourned
This means they sang sad songs like women did at funerals.
Mat 11:22
than for you
The implied information can be made explicit. AT "than for you, because you did not repent and believe in me, even though you saw me do miracles"
Mat 11:24
than for you
The implicit information can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "than for you, because you did not repent and believe in me, even though you saw me do miracles"
Mat 12:4
bread of the presence
This is sacred bread that priests placed before God in the tabernacle. Alternate Translation: "bread that the priest placed before God" or "the sacred bread"
Mat 12:7
If you had known what this meant, 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the guiltless
Here Jesus quotes scripture. Alternate Translation: "The prophet Hosea wrote this long ago: 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice.' If you had understood what this meant, you would not have condemned the guiltless"
Mat 12:10
so that they might accuse him of sinning
They did not just want to accuse Jesus in front of the people. The Pharisees wanted Jesus to give an answer that contradicted the law of Moses so they could take him before a judge and legally charge him with breaking the law.
Mat 12:18
he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles
The means that God's servant will tell the Gentiles that there will be justice. It can be stated clearly that God is the one who will bring about justice, and the abstract noun "justice" can be expressed as "what is right." Alternate Translation: "he will announce to the nations that God will do for them what is right"
Mat 12:38
to see a sign from you
You can make explicit why they want to see a sign. Alternate Translation: "to see a sign from you that proves what you say is true"
Mat 12:41
than Jonah is here
You can make explicit the implicit meaning of Jesus' statement. Alternate Translation: "than Jonah is here, yet you still have not repented, which is why God will condemn you"
Mat 12:42
than Solomon is here
You can make explicit the implicit meaning of Jesus' statement. Alternate Translation: "than Solomon is here, yet you do not listen. That is why God will condemn you"
Mat 13:1
sat beside the sea
It is implied that he sat down to teach the people.
Mat 13:2
so he got into a boat
It is implied that Jesus got into a boat because it would make it easier to teach the people.
Mat 13:14
While hearing you will hear, but you will in no way understand
You will hear things, but you will not understand them. You can make explicit what the people will hear. Alternate Translation: "You will hear what God says through the prophets, but you will not understand its true meaning"
Mat 13:14
while seeing you will see, but you will in no way perceive
You can make explicit what the people will see. Alternate Translation: "you will see what God does through the prophets, but you will not understand it"
Mat 13:17
the things that you see
You can make explicit what they have seen. Alternate Translation: "the things you have seen me do"
Mat 13:17
the things that you hear
You can make explicit what they have heard. Alternate Translation: "the things you have heard me say"
Mat 13:19
the evil one
This refers to Satan.
Mat 13:20
What was sown on rocky ground
The phrase "what was sown" refers to seed that fell. Alternate Translation: "The seed that fell on rocky ground"
Mat 13:22
What was sown
This refers to seed that was sown or that fell. Alternate Translation: "The seed that was sown" or "The seed that fell"
Mat 13:24
good seed
good food seeds or "good grain seeds." The audience probably thought that Jesus was talking about wheat.
Mat 13:32
This seed is indeed the smallest of all seeds
Mustard seeds were the smallest seeds known to the original hearers.
Mat 13:33
until all the dough had risen
The implied information is that the yeast and the three measures of flour were made into dough for baking.
Mat 13:44
sells everything he possesses, and buys that field
The implied information is that the person buys the field to take possession of the hidden treasure.
Mat 13:54
his own region
his hometown. This refers to the town of Nazareth, where Jesus grew up.
Mat 13:54
Where does this man get his wisdom and these miracles from?
The people believed that Jesus was just an ordinary man. They use this question to express their amazement that he was so wise and was able to do miracles. Alternate Translation: "How can an ordinary man like this be so wise and do such great miracles?" or "It is strange that he is able to speak with such wisdom and do these miracles!"
Mat 14:4
It is not lawful
Philip was still alive when Herod married Herodias.
Mat 14:6
in the midst
You can make explicit the implicit information. Alternate Translation: "in the midst of the guests attending the birthday celebration"
Mat 14:12
they went and told Jesus
The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "the disciples of John went and told Jesus what had happened to John the Baptist"
Mat 14:13
he withdrew
he left or "he went away from the crowd." It is implied that Jesus' disciples went with him. Alternate Translation: "Jesus and his disciples left"
Mat 15:2
they do not wash their hands
This washing is not only to clean hands. This refers to a ceremonial washing according to the tradition of the elders. Alternate Translation: "they do not wash their hands properly"
Mat 15:6
does not need to honor his father
It is implied that "his father" means "his parents." This means the religious leaders taught that a person does not need to show respect to his parents by taking care of them.
Mat 15:7
when he said
It is implied that Isaiah is speaking what God told him. Alternate Translation: "when he told what God said"
Mat 15:21
Jesus went away
It is implied that the disciples went with Jesus. Alternate Translation: "Jesus and his disciples went away"
Mat 15:22
Have mercy on me
This phrase implies that she is requesting that Jesus heal her daughter. Alternate Translation: "Have mercy and heal my daughter"
Mat 16:2
When it is evening
The situation can be stated more clearly. Alternate Translation: "If the sky is red in the evening" or "If the sky is red when the sun is setting"
Mat 16:3
When it is morning
The situation can be stated more clearly. Alternate Translation: "If the sky is red in the morning" or "If the sky is red when the sun is rising"
Mat 16:18
you are Peter
The name Peter means "rock."
Mat 17:10
Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?
The disciples are referring to the belief that Elijah will come back to life and return to the people of Israel before the Messiah comes.
Mat 17:15
have mercy on my son
It is implied that the man wants Jesus to heal his son. Alternate Translation: "have mercy on my son and heal him"
Mat 17:27
throw in a hook
Fishermen tied hooks to the end of a line, then threw it in the water to catch fish.
Mat 18:10
that in heaven their angels always look on the face of my Father who is in heaven
Jewish teachers taught that only the most important angels could be in God's presence. Jesus means that the most important angels speak to God about these little ones.
Mat 18:17
let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector
treat him as you would treat a Gentile or tax collector. This implies that they should remove him from the community of believers.
Mat 18:19
if two of you
It is implied that Jesus means "if at least two of you" or "if two or more of you."
Mat 18:20
two or three
It is implied that Jesus means "two or more" or "at least two."
Mat 18:34
handed him over
gave him over. Most likely the king himself did not take the first servant to the torturers. Alternate Translation: "he ordered his servants to give him over"
Mat 19:5
He who made them also said, 'For this reason ... flesh.'
This is part of what Jesus expected the Pharisees to have understood from the scripture. The direct quotation can be expressed as an indirect quotation. Alternate Translation: "And surely you know that God also said that for this reason ... flesh"
Mat 19:12
For there are eunuchs who were that way from their mother's womb
You can make explicit the implicit information. Alternate Translation: "For there are different reasons that men do not marry. For instance, there are men who were born eunuchs"
Mat 19:25
they were very astonished
the disciples were amazed. It is implied that they were astonished because they believed having riches was proof that God approved of someone.
Mat 20:24
they were very angry with the two brothers
If necessary, you can make explicit why the ten disciples were angry. Alternate Translation: "they were very angry with the two brothers because each of them also wanted to sit in a place of honor next to Jesus"
Mat 21:2
tied up there
You can make explicit how the donkey is tied. Alternate Translation: "tied up there to a post" or "tied up there to a tree"
Mat 21:4
through the prophet
There were many prophets. Matthew was speaking of Zechariah. Alternate Translation: "the prophet Zechariah"
Mat 21:8
crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them in the road
These are ways to show honor to Jesus as he was entering Jerusalem.
Mat 21:12
Jesus entered the temple
Jesus did not enter the actual temple. He entered the courtyard around the temple.
Mat 21:15
they became very angry
It is implied that they were angry because they did not believe Jesus was the Christ and they did not want other people praising him. Alternate Translation: "they became very angry because people were praising him"
Mat 21:23
had come into the temple
It is implied that Jesus did not enter the actual temple. He entered the courtyard around the temple.
Mat 22:4
My oxen and fattened calves have been killed
It is implied that the animals are cooked and ready to eat. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "My servants have killed and cooked my oxen and my fattened calves"
Mat 22:7
killed those murderers
It is implied that the king's soldiers killed the murderers.
Mat 22:16
their disciples ... Herodians
The disciples of the Pharisees supported paying taxes only to Jewish authorities. The Herodians supported paying taxes to the Roman authorities. It is implied that the Pharisees believed that no matter what Jesus said, he would offend one of these groups.
Mat 22:17
to pay taxes to Caesar
People did not pay taxes directly to Caesar but to one of his tax collectors. Alternate Translation: "to pay the taxes that Caesar requires"
Mat 22:29
You are mistaken
It is implied that Jesus means that they are mistaken about what they think about the resurrection. Alternate Translation: "You are mistaken about the resurrection"
Mat 22:46
any more questions
It is implied that no one asked him the kind of questions that were intended to make him say something wrong so the religious leaders could arrest him.
Mat 23:5
For they make their phylacteries wide, and they enlarge the edges of their garments
Both of these are things the Pharisees do to appear as if they honor God more than other people.
Mat 23:27
whitewashed tombs
tombs that someone has painted white. The Jews would paint tombs white so that people would easily see them and avoid touching them. Touching a tomb would make a person ceremonially unclean.
Mat 24:1
from the temple
It is implied that Jesus was not in the temple itself. He was in the courtyard around the temple.
Mat 24:2
not one stone will be left on another that will not be torn down
It is implied that enemy soldiers will tear down the stones. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "when the enemy soldiers come, they will tear down every stone in these buildings"
Mat 24:3
What will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age
Here "your coming" refers to when Jesus will come in power, establishing God's reign on earth and bringing this age to an end. Alternate Translation: "What will be the sign that you are about to come and that the world is about to end"
Mat 25:11
open for us
This implicit information can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "open the door for us so we can come inside"
Mat 25:15
according to his own ability
The implicit information can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "according to each servant's skill in managing wealth"
Mat 25:29
who possesses
It is implied that the person who possesses something also uses it wisely. Alternate Translation: "who uses well what he has"
Mat 25:29
from anyone who does not possess anything
It is implied that the person does possess something but he does not use it wisely. Alternate Translation: "from anyone does not use well what he has"
Mat 26:6
Simon the leper
It is implied that this is a man whom Jesus had healed from leprosy.
Mat 26:31
I will strike
Here "I" refers to God. It is implied that God will cause or allow people to harm and kill Jesus.
Mat 26:55
in the temple
It is implied that Jesus was not in the actual temple. He was in the courtyard around the temple.
Mat 26:65
He has spoken blasphemy
The reason the high priest called Jesus' statement blasphemy is probably that he understood Jesus' words in [Matthew 26:64](./64.md) as a claim to be equal with God.
Mat 27:1
plotted against Jesus to put him to death
The Jewish leaders were planning how they could convince the Roman leaders to kill Jesus.
Mat 27:6
the treasury
This is the place they kept the money they used to provide for things needed for the temple and the priests.
Mat 27:11
You say so
Possible meanings are 1) by saying this, Jesus implied that he is the King of the Jews. Alternate Translation: "Yes, as you said, I am" or "Yes. It is as you said" or 2) by saying this, Jesus was saying that Pilate, not Jesus, was the one calling him the King of the Jews. Alternate Translation: "You yourself have said so"
Mat 27:26
he scourged Jesus and handed him over to be crucified
It is implied that Pilate ordered his soldiers to scourge Jesus. Handing Jesus over to be crucified is a metaphor for ordering his soldiers to crucify Jesus. Alternate Translation: "he ordered his soldiers to scourge Jesus and to crucify him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] )
Mat 27:32
As they came out
This means Jesus and the soldiers came out of the city. Alternate Translation: "As they came out of Jerusalem"
Mat 27:35
his garments
These were the clothes Jesus had been wearing.
Mat 27:40
If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross
They did not believe that Jesus is the Son of God, so they wanted him to prove it if it was true. Alternate Translation: "If you are the Son of God, prove it by coming down from the cross"
Mat 27:54
those who were watching Jesus
those who were guarding Jesus. This refers to the other soldiers who were guarding Jesus with the centurion. Alternate Translation: "the other soldiers with him who were guarding Jesus"
Mat 27:60
that he had cut into the rock
It is implied that Joseph had workers who cut the tomb into the rock.
Mat 27:60
Then he rolled a large stone
Most likely Joseph had other people there to help him roll the stone.
Mat 28:17
but some doubted
It can be stated explicitly what the disciples doubted. Alternate Translation: "some doubted that he was really Jesus and that he had become alive again"
Mrk 1:16
casting a net in the sea
The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "throwing a net into the water to catch fish"
Mrk 1:19
in the boat
It can be assumed that this boat belongs to James and John. Alternate Translation: "in their boat"
Mrk 1:20
called them
It may be helpful to state clearly why Jesus called to James and John. Alternate Translation: "called them to come with him"
Mrk 1:31
the fever left her
It can be shown clearly who healed her. Alternate Translation: "Jesus healed her of the fever"
Mrk 1:31
she started serving them
It is implied that food was served. Alternate Translation: "she provided them with food and drinks"
Mrk 1:44
show yourself to the priest
Jesus told the man to show himself to the priest so that the priest could look at his skin to see if his leprosy was really gone. It was required in the law of Moses for a man to present himself to the priest if he had been cleansed.
Mrk 1:45
that Jesus could no longer enter a town openly
This was the result of the man spreading the news so much. Here "openly" is a metaphor for "publicly." Jesus could not enter the towns because many people would crowd around him. Alternate Translation: "that Jesus could no longer enter a town publicly" or "that Jesus could no longer enter the towns in a way that many people would see him"
Mrk 2:2
So many gathered there
The word "there" refers to the house that Jesus stayed it in Capernaum. Alternate Translation: "So many people gathered there" or "So many people came to the house"
Mrk 2:2
there was no more space
This refers to there being no space inside the house. Alternate Translation: "there was no more room for them inside"
Mrk 2:5
Seeing their faith
Seeing the men's faith. Possible meanings are 1) that only the men who carried the paralyzed man had faith or 2) that the paralyzed man and the men who brought him to Jesus all had faith.
Mrk 2:21
No man sews a piece of new cloth on an old garment
Sewing a piece of new cloth on an old garment will make the hole on an old garment worse if the piece of new cloth has not yet shrunk. Both the new cloth and old garment will be ruined.
Mrk 2:23
pick heads of grain
The disciples picked the heads of grain to eat the kernels, or seeds, in them. This can be worded to show the full meaning. Alternate Translation: "pick heads of grain and eat the seeds"
Mrk 2:25
read what David
Jesus refers to reading about David in the Old Testament. This can be translated showing the implicit information. Alternate Translation: "read in the scriptures what David"
Mrk 3:2
so that they could accuse him
If Jesus were to heal the man that day, the Pharisees would accuse him breaking the law by the working on the Sabbath. Alternate Translation: "so that they could accuse him of wrongdoing" or "so that they could accuse him of breaking the law"
Mrk 3:10
everyone who had afflictions eagerly approached him in order to touch him
They did this because they believed that touching Jesus would make them well. This can be expressed clearly. Alternate Translation: "all the sick people pushed forward eagerly trying to touch him so that they might be healed"
Mrk 3:11
they fell down ... cried out, and they said
Here "they" refers to the unclean spirits. It is they who are causing the people they possess to do things. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "they caused the people they were possessing to fall down before him and to cry out to him"
Mrk 4:12
when they look ... when they hear
It is assumed that Jesus is speaking about the people looking at what he shows them and hearing what he tells them. Alternate Translation: "when they look at what I am doing ... when they hear what I am saying"
Mrk 4:17
tribulation or persecution comes because of the word
It may be helpful to explain that tribulation comes because people believed God's message. Alternate Translation: "tribulation or persecution comes because they believed God's message"
Mrk 5:4
No one had the strength to subdue him
The man was so strong that no one could subdue him. Alternate Translation: "He was so strong that no one was strong enough to subdue him"
Mrk 5:6
When he saw Jesus from a distance
When the man first saw Jesus, Jesus would have been getting out of the boat.
Mrk 5:13
he allowed them
It may be helpful to state clearly what Jesus allowed them to do. Alternate Translation: "Jesus allowed the unclean spirits to do what they asked permission to do"
Mrk 5:19
But Jesus did not permit him
What Jesus did not allow the man to do can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "But he did not allow the man to come with them"
Mrk 5:24
So he went with him
So Jesus went with Jairus. Jesus' disciples also went with him. Alternate Translation: "So Jesus and the disciples went with Jairus"
Mrk 5:27
the reports about Jesus
She had heard reports about Jesus of how he healed people. Alternate Translation: "that Jesus healed people"
Mrk 5:37
to accompany him
to come with him. It may be helpful to state where they were going. Alternate Translation: "to accompany him to Jairus' house"
Mrk 5:40
went in where the child was
It may be helpful to state where the child is. Alternate Translation: "went into the room where the child was lying"
Mrk 6:11
as a testimony to them
as a testimony against them. It may be helpful to explain how this action was a testimony to them. "as a testimony to them. By doing that, you will be testifying that they did not welcome you"
Mrk 6:14
Some were saying, "John the Baptist has been
Some people were saying that Jesus was John the Baptist. This can be stated more clearly. Alternate Translation: "Some were saying, 'He is John the Baptist who has been"
Mrk 6:15
Some others said, "He is Elijah."
It may be helpful to state why some people thought he was Elijah. Alternate Translation: "Some others said, 'He is Elijah, whom God promised to send back again.'"
Mrk 6:26
because of the oath he had made and because of his dinner guests
The content of the oath, and the relationship between the oath and the dinner guests can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "because his dinner guests had heard him make the oath that he would give her anything she asked for"
Mrk 6:44
There were five thousand men who ate the loaves
The number of women and children was not counted. If it would not be understood that women and children were present, it can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "And there were five thousand men who ate the loaves. They did not even count the women and children"
Mrk 6:51
They were completely amazed
If you need to be more specific, it can stated what they were amazed by. Alternate Translation: "They were completely amazed at what he had done"
Mrk 6:55
they ran throughout the whole region
It may be helpful to state why they ran through the region. Alternate Translation: "they ran throughout the whole district in order to tell others that Jesus was there"
Mrk 7:12
then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or his mother
By doing this, the Pharisees are allowing people not to provide for their parents, if they promise to give to God what they would have given to them.
Mrk 7:15
nothing from outside of a person
Jesus is speaking about what a person eats. This is in contrast to "what come out of the person." Alternate Translation: "nothing from outside a person that he can eat"
Mrk 7:15
It is what comes out of the person
This refers to the things a person does or says. This is in contrast to "what is outside a person that enters into him." Alternate Translation: "It is what comes out of a person that he says or does"
Mrk 7:19
all foods clean
It may be helpful to explain clearly what this phrase means. Alternate Translation: "all foods clean, meaning that people can eat any food without God considering the eater defiled"
Mrk 7:29
you are free to go
Jesus was implying that she no longer needed to stay to ask him to help her daughter. He would do it. Alternate Translation: "you may go now" or "you may go home in peace"
Mrk 7:29
The demon has gone out of your daughter
Jesus has caused the unclean spirit to leave the woman's daughter. This can be expressed clearly. Alternate Translation: "I have caused the evil spirit to leave your daughter"
Mrk 7:32
they begged him to lay his hand on him
Prophets and teachers would put their hands on people in order to heal them or bless them. In this case, people are begging Jesus to heal a man. Alternate Translation: "they begged Jesus to put his hand on the man to heal him"
Mrk 7:33
after spitting
It may be helpful to state that Jesus spit on his fingers. Alternate Translation: "after spitting on his fingers"
Mrk 8:8
the remaining broken pieces, seven large baskets
This refers to the broken pieces of fish and bread that were left over after the people ate. Alternate Translation: "the remaining broken pieces of bread and fish, which filled seven large baskets"
Mrk 8:9
Then he sent them away
It may be helpful to clarify when he sent them away. Alternate Translation: "After they ate, Jesus sent them away"
Mrk 8:10
they went into the region of Dalmanutha
It may be helpful to clarify how they got to Dalmanutha. Alternate Translation: "they sailed around the Sea of Galilee to the region of Dalmanutha"
Mrk 8:11
to test him
The Pharisees tried to test Jesus to make him prove that he was from God. Some information can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "to prove that God had sent him"
Mrk 8:12
this generation
When Jesus speaks of "this generation," he is referring to the people who lived at that time. There Pharisees are included in this group. Alternate Translation: "you and the people of this generation"
Mrk 8:13
he left them, got into a boat again
Jesus' disciples went with him. Some information can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "he left them, got into a boat again with his disciples"
Mrk 8:13
to the other side
This describes the Sea of Galilee, which can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "to the other side of the sea"
Mrk 8:16
It is because we have no bread
In this statement, it may be helpful to state that "it" refers to what Jesus had said. Alternate Translation: "He must have said that because we have no bread"
Mrk 8:19
how many baskets full of broken pieces of bread did you take up
It may be helpful to state when they collected the baskets of pieces. Alternate Translation: "how many baskets full of broken pieces of bread did you collect after everyone finished eating"
Mrk 8:20
how many basketfuls did you take up
It may be helpful to state when they collected these. Alternate Translation: "how many baskets full of broken pieces of bread did you collect after everyone finished eating"
Mrk 8:22
to touch him
It may be helpful to state why they wanted Jesus to touch the man. Alternate Translation: "to touch him in order to heal him"
Mrk 8:28
John the Baptist
The disciples answer that this was who some people said Jesus was. This can be shown more clearly. Alternate Translation: "Some people say that you are John the Baptist"
Mrk 8:30
Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him
Jesus did not want them to tell anyone that he was the Christ. This can be made more explicit. Also, this can also be written as a direct quote. Alternate Translation: "Jesus warned them not to tell anyone that he is the Christ" or "Jesus warned them, 'Do not tell anyone that I am the Christ'"
Mrk 8:32
began to rebuke him
Peter rebuked Jesus for saying the things he said would happen to the Son of Man. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "began to rebuke him for saying these things"
Mrk 8:35
for my sake and for the gospel
because of me and because of the gospel. Jesus is talking about people who lose their lives because they follow Jesus and the gospel. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "because he follows me and tells others the gospel"
Mrk 9:4
Elijah with Moses appeared
It may be helpful to state who these men are. Alternate Translation: "two prophets who had lived long ago, Elijah and Moses, appeared"
Mrk 9:9
he commanded them to tell no one ... until the Son of Man had risen
This implies that he was permitting them to tell people about what they had seen only after he rose from being dead.
Mrk 9:11
Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?
Prophecy foretold that Elijah would come again from heaven. Then the Messiah, who is the Son of Man, would come to rule and reign. The disciples are confused about how the Son of Man could die and rise again. Alternate Translation: "Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first before the Messiah comes?"
Mrk 9:13
they did whatever they wanted to him
It may be helpful to state what people did to Elijah. Alternate Translation: "our leaders treated him very badly, just as they wanted to do"
Mrk 9:15
was amazed
It may be helpful to state why they were amazed. Alternate Translation: "was amazed that Jesus had come"
Mrk 9:19
He answered them
Though it was the boy's father who made a request of Jesus, Jesus responds to the whole crowd. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "Jesus responded to the crowd"
Mrk 9:26
came out
It is implied that the spirit came out of the boy. Alternate Translation: "came out of the boy"
Mrk 9:31
for he was teaching his disciples
Jesus was teaching his disciples privately, away from the crowd. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "for he was teaching his disciples privately"
Mrk 9:34
they were silent
They were silent because they were ashamed to tell Jesus what they had been discussing. Alternate Translation: "they were silent because they were ashamed"
Mrk 9:34
who was the greatest
Here "the greatest" refers to "the greatest" among the disciples. Alternate Translation: "who was the greatest among them"
Mrk 9:37
the one who sent me
This refers to God, who has sent him to earth. Alternate Translation: "God, who has sent me"
Mrk 9:38
driving out demons
sending away demons. This refers to casting demons out of people. Alternate Translation: "driving demons out of people"
Mrk 9:47
to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes
This refers to the state of a person's physical body when he dies. A person does not take his physical body with him into eternity. Alternate Translation: "to enter into the kingdom of God after having lived on earth with only one eye than to have lived on earth with two eyes"
Mrk 9:48
where their worm does not die
The meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "where worms that eat people there do not die"
Mrk 10:1
Jesus left that place
Jesus' disciples were traveling with him. They were leaving Capernaum. Alternate Translation: "Jesus and his disciples left Capernaum"
Mrk 10:9
Therefore what God has joined together, let no man tear apart
The phrase "what God has joined together" refers to any married couple. Alternate Translation: "Therefore since God has joined together husband and wife, let no one tear them apart"
Mrk 10:10
were in the house
Jesus' disciples were speaking to him privately. Alternate Translation: were alone in the house"
Mrk 10:12
she commits adultery
In this situation she commits adultery again her previous husband. Alternate Translation: "she commits adultery against him" or "she commits adultery against the first man"
Mrk 10:13
he might touch them
This means that Jesus would touch them with his hands and bless them. Alternate Translation: "he might touch them with his hands and bless them" or "he might lay his hands on them and bless them"
Mrk 10:33
the Son of Man will
Jesus is speaking about himself. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "I, the Son of Man, will"
Mrk 10:34
he will rise
This refers to rising from the dead. Alternate Translation: "he will rise from being dead"
Mrk 10:43
But it shall not be this way among you
This refers back to the previous verse about the Gentile rulers. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "But do not be like them"
Mrk 10:47
Son of David
Jesus is called the Son of David because he is a descendant of King David. Alternate Translation: "You who are the Messiah descended from King David"
Mrk 10:52
Your faith has healed you
This phrase is written this way to place emphasis on the man's faith. Jesus heals the man because he believes that Jesus can heal him. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "I am healing you because you believed in me"
Mrk 11:3
Why are you doing this
It can be written clearly what the word "this" refers to. Alternate Translation: "Why are you untying and taking the colt"
Mrk 11:3
will immediately send it back here
Jesus will send it back promptly when he is finished using it. Alternate Translation: "will immediately send it back when he no longer needs it"
Mrk 11:8
Many people spread their garments on the road
It was a tradition to lay garments on the road in front of important people to honor them. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "Many people spread their garments on the road to honor him"
Mrk 11:8
others spread branches they had cut from the fields
It was a tradition to lay palm branches on the road in front of an important people to honor them. Alternate Translation: "others spread branches on the road that they had cut from the fields, also to honor him"
Mrk 11:9
Blessed is the one
This is referring to Jesus. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "Blessed are you, the one"
Mrk 11:10
Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David
Blessed is our father David's coming kingdom. This refers to Jesus coming and ruling as king. The word "blessed" can be translated as an active verb. Alternate Translation: "Blessed be the coming of your kingdom" or "May God bless you as you rule your coming kingdom"
Mrk 11:13
he found nothing but leaves
This means that he did not find any figs. Alternate Translation: "he found only leaves and no figs on the tree"
Mrk 11:15
began to cast out the sellers and the buyers in the temple
Jesus is driving these people out of the temple. This can be written clearly. Alternate Translation: "began to drive the sellers and buyers out of the temple"
Mrk 11:20
the fig tree withered away to its roots
Translate this statement to clarify that the tree died. Alternate Translation: "the fig tree withered away down to its roots and died"
Mrk 11:21
Peter remembered
It may be helpful to state what Peter remembered. Alternate Translation: "Peter remembered what Jesus had said to the fig tree"
Mrk 11:24
it will be yours
It is understood that this will happen because God will provide what you ask for. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "God will give it to you"
Mrk 11:28
you do these things
The words "these things" refer to Jesus turning over the sellers' tables in the temple and speaking against what the chief priests and scribes taught. Alternate Translation: "things like those you did here yesterday"
Mrk 11:32
But if we say, 'From men,' ... .
The religious leaders imply that they will suffer from the people if they give this answer. Alternate Translation: "But if we say, 'From men,' that would not be good." or "But we do not want to say that it was from men."
Mrk 11:32
They were afraid of the people
The author, Mark, explains why the religious leaders did not want to say that John's baptism was from men. This can be stated clearly. "They said this to each other because they were afraid of the people" or "They did not want to say that John's baptism was from men because they were afraid of the people"
Mrk 12:1
dug a pit for a winepress
This means that he carved a pit on the rock, which would be the bottom part of the winepress used for collecting the squeezed grape juice. Alternate Translation: "carved a pit into rock for the winepress" or "he made a vat to collect the juice from the winepress"
Mrk 12:2
At the right time
This refers to the time of harvest. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "When the time came to harvest the grapes"
Mrk 12:3
with nothing
This means that they did not give him any of the fruit. Alternate Translation: "without any grapes"
Mrk 12:4
they wounded him in the head
This can be written more clearly. Alternate Translation: "they beat that one on the head, and they hurt him terribly"
Mrk 12:5
They treated many others in the same way
This refers to servants that the owner sent. The phrase "in the same way" refers to them being mistreated. This can be written clearly. Alternate Translation: "They also mistreated many other servants whom he sent"
Mrk 12:6
a beloved son
It is implied that this is the owner's son. Alternate Translation: "his beloved son"
Mrk 12:7
the heir
This is the owner's heir, who would inherit the vineyard after his father died. Alternate Translation: "the owner's heir"
Mrk 12:9
will give the vineyard to others
The word "others" refers to other vine growers who will care for the vineyard. Alternate Translation: "he will give the vineyard to vine growers to care for it"
Mrk 12:12
but they feared the crowd
They were afraid of what the crowd would do to them if they arrested Jesus. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "but they feared what the crowd would do if they arrested him"
Mrk 12:15
Jesus knew their hypocrisy
They were acting hypocritically. This can be explained more clearly. Alternate Translation: "Jesus knew that they did not really want to know what God wanted them to do"
Mrk 12:17
They marveled at him
They were amazed at what Jesus had said. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "They marveled at him and at what he had said"
Mrk 12:18
who say there is no resurrection
This phrase explains who the Sadducees were. This can be written more clearly. Alternate Translation: "who say there is no resurrection from the dead"
Mrk 12:19
raise up a descendant for his brother
have a son for his brother. The man's first son would be considered to be the dead brother's son, and the son's descendants would be considered to be the dead brother's descendants. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "have a son who will be considered to be the dead brother's son"
Mrk 12:21
the third likewise
It may be helpful to explain what "likewise" means. Alternate Translation: "the third brother married her as his other bothers did, and he also died leaving no children"
Mrk 12:22
The seven left no children
Each of the brothers married the woman and then died before he had any children with her. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "Eventually all seven brothers married that woman one by one, but none of them had any children with her, and one by one they died"
Mrk 12:26
the account about the bush
This refers to the part of the Book of Moses that tells about when God spoke to Moses out of a bush that was burning but that did not burn up. Alternate Translation: "the passage about the burning bush" or "the words about the fiery bush"
Mrk 12:27
You are quite mistaken
It may be helpful to state what they are mistaken about. Alternate Translation: "When you say that dead people do not rise again, you are quite mistaken"
Mrk 12:35
While Jesus was teaching in the temple courts, he said
Some time has passed and Jesus is now in the temple. This is not part of the previous conversation. Alternate Translation: "Later, while Jesus was teaching in the temple area, he said to the people"
Mrk 12:36
said, 'The Lord said to my Lord
Here David calls God "The Lord" and calls the Christ "my Lord." This can be written more clearly. Alternate Translation: "said about the Christ, 'The Lord God said to my Lord"
Mrk 12:40
will receive greater condemnation
The word "greater" implies a comparison. Here the comparison is to other men who are punished. Alternate Translation: "will receive greater condemnation than other people"
Mrk 13:1
the wonderful stones and wonderful buildings
The "stones" refer to the stones that the buildings were built with. Alternate Translation: "the wonderful buildings and the wonderful stones that they are made of"
Mrk 13:2
Not one stone will be left on another which will not be torn down
It is implied that enemy soldiers will tear down the stones. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "Not one stone will remain on top of another, for enemy soldiers will come and destroy these buildings"
Mrk 13:3
As he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter
It can be expressed clearly that Jesus and his disciples had walked to the Mount of Olives. Alternate Translation: "After arriving at the Mount of Olives, which is opposite the temple, Jesus sat down. Then Peter"
Mrk 13:4
these things happen ... are about to happen
This refers to what Jesus had just said will happen to the stones of the temple. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "these things happen to the buildings of the temple ... are about to happen to the temple buildings"
Mrk 13:7
the end
This probably refers to the end of the world.
Mrk 13:9
as a testimony to them
This means they will testify about Jesus. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "and testify to them about me" or "and you will tell them about me"
Mrk 13:10
But the gospel must first be proclaimed to all the nations
Jesus is still speaking about things that must happen before the end comes. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "But the gospel must first be proclaimed to all the nations before the end will come"
Mrk 13:13
whoever endures to the end
Here "endures" represents continuing to be faithful to God even while suffering. Alternate Translation: "whoever suffers and stays faithful to God to the end"
Mrk 13:14
standing where it should not be standing
Jesus' audience would have known that this refers to the temple. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "standing in the temple, where it should not be standing"
Mrk 13:14
let the reader understand
This is not Jesus speaking. Matthew added this to get the readers' attention, so that they would listen to this warning. Alternate Translation: "may everyone who is reading this pay attention to this warning"
Mrk 13:20
had shortened the days
had shortened the time. It may be helpful to specify which "days" are referred to. Alternate Translation: "had reduced the days of suffering" or "had shortened the time of suffering"
Mrk 13:23
I have told you all these things ahead of time
Jesus told them these things to warn them. Alternate Translation: "I have told you all these things ahead of time to warn you"
Mrk 13:25
the stars will fall from the sky
This does not mean that they will fall to earth but that they will fall from where the are now. Alternate Translation: "the stars will fall from their places in the sky"
Mrk 13:29
these things
This refers to the days of tribulation. Alternate Translation: "these things I have just described"
Mrk 13:32
that day or that hour
This refers to the time that the Son of Man will return. Alternate Translation: "that day or that hour that the Son of Man will return" or "the day or the hour that I will return"
Mrk 13:33
what time it is
It can be stated clearly what "time" refers to here. Alternate Translation: "when all these events will happen"
Mrk 14:10
so that he might deliver him over to them
Judas did not deliver Jesus over to them yet, rather he went to make arrangements with them. Alternate Translation: "in order to arrange with them that he would deliver Jesus over to them"
Mrk 14:11
When the chief priests heard it
It may be helpful to state clearly what the chief priests heard. Alternate Translation: "When the chief priests heard what he was willing to do for them"
Mrk 14:12
when they sacrificed the Passover lamb
At the beginning of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, it was customary to sacrifice a lamb. Alternate Translation: "when it was customary to sacrifice the Passover lamb"
Mrk 14:15
Make the preparations for us there
They were to prepare the meal for Jesus and his disciples to eat. Alternate Translation: "Prepare the meal for us there"
Mrk 14:17
he came with the twelve
It may be helpful to state where they came to. Alternate Translation: "he came with the twelve to the house"
Mrk 14:21
through whom the Son of Man is betrayed
This can be stated more directly. Alternate Translation: "who betrays the Son of Man"
Mrk 14:22
broke it
This means that he broke the bread into pieces for the people to eat. Alternate Translation: "broke it into pieces"
Mrk 14:24
This is my blood of the covenant, the blood that is poured out for many
The covenant is for the forgiveness of sins. This can be written more explicitly. Alternate Translation: "This is my blood that confirms the covenant, the blood that is poured out so that many may receive the forgiveness of sins"
Mrk 14:35
if it were possible
This means that if God would allow it to happen. Alternate Translation: "if God would allow it"
Mrk 14:35
the hour might pass
Here "this hour" refers to Jesus' time of suffering, both now in the garden and later. Alternate Translation: "that he would not have to go through this time of suffering"
Mrk 14:41
He came the third time
Jesus had gone and prayed again. Then he returned to them a third time. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "Then he went and prayed again. He returned the third time"
Mrk 14:44
he is the one
Here "the one" refers to the man that Judas was going to identify. Alternate Translation: "he is the one you want"
Mrk 14:54
as far as the courtyard of the high priest
As Peter followed Jesus, he stopped at the high priest's courtyard. This can be written clearly. Alternate Translation: "and he went as far as the courtyard of the high priest"
Mrk 14:54
He sat among the guards
Peter sat with the guards who were working at the courtyard. Alternate Translation: "He sat in the courtyard among the guards"
Mrk 14:55
But they did not find any
They did not find testimony against Jesus with which they could convict him and have him put to death. Alternate Translation: "But they did not find any testimony with which to convict him"
Mrk 14:60
stood up among them
Jesus stands up in the middle of the angry crowd to speak to them. Translate this to show who was present when Jesus stood up to speak. Alternate Translation: "stood up among the chief priests, scribes, and elders"
Mrk 14:60
Have you no answer? What is it these men testify against you?
The chief priest is not asking Jesus for information about what the witnesses said. He is asking Jesus to prove what the witnesses said is wrong. Alternate Translation: "Are you not going to reply? What do you say in response to the testimony these men are speaking against you?"
Mrk 14:64
You have heard the blasphemy
This refers to what Jesus said, which the high priest called blasphemy. Alternate Translation: "You have heard the blasphemy he has spoken"
Mrk 14:65
to cover his face
They covered his face with a cloth or blindfold, so he could not see. Alternate Translation: "to cover his face with a blindfold"
Mrk 14:65
Prophesy
They mocked him, asking him to prophesy who was hitting him. Alternate Translation: "Prophesy who hit you"
Mrk 14:66
one of the servant girls of the high priest
The servant girls worked for the high priest. Alternate Translation: "one of the servant girls who worked for the high priest"
Mrk 14:69
one of them
The people were identifying Peter as one of Jesus' disciples. This can be made more clear. Alternate Translation: "one of Jesus' disciples" or "one of those who have been with that man they arrested"
Mrk 15:2
You say so
Possible meanings are 1) by saying this, Jesus was saying that Pilate, not Jesus, was the one calling him the King of the Jews. Alternate Translation: "You yourself have said so" or 2) by saying this, Jesus implied that he is the King of the Jews. Alternate Translation: "Yes, as you said, I am" or "Yes. It is as you said"
Mrk 15:8
to do for them as he had done in the past
This refers to Pilate releasing a prisoner at feasts. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "to release a prisoner to them as he had done in the past"
Mrk 15:10
it was because of envy that the chief priests
They envied Jesus, probably because so many people were following him and becoming his disciples. Alternate Translation: "the chief priests were envious of Jesus. This is why they" or "the chief priests were envious of Jesus' popularity among the people. This is why they"
Mrk 15:12
What then should I do with the King of the Jews
Pilate asks what he should do with Jesus if he releases Barabbas to them. This can be written clearly. Alternate Translation: "If I release Barabbas, what then should I do with the King of the Jews"
Mrk 15:23
wine mixed with myrrh
It may be helpful to explain that myrrh is a pain-relieving medicine. Alternate Translation: "wine mixed with a medicine called myrrh" or "wine mixed with a pain-relieving medicine called myrrh"
Mrk 15:26
On a sign
The soldiers attached this sign to the cross above Jesus. Alternate Translation: "They attached to the cross above Jesus' head a sign on which"
Mrk 15:27
one on the right of him and one on his left
This can be written more clearly. Alternate Translation: "one on a cross on the right side of him and one on a cross on the left side of him"
Mrk 15:29
You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days
The people refer to Jesus by what he earlier prophesied that he would do. Alternate Translation: "You who said you would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days"
Mrk 15:32
believe
The means to believe in Jesus. Alternate Translation: "believe in him"
Mrk 15:35
Some of those standing by heard his words and said
It can be stated clearly that they misunderstood what Jesus said. Alternate Translation: "When some of those standing there heard his words, they misunderstood and said"
Mrk 15:36
gave it to him
gave it to Jesus. The man held up the staff so that Jesus could drink wine from the sponge. Alternate Translation: "held it up to Jesus"
Mrk 15:43
asked for the body of Jesus
It can be stated clearly that he wanted to get the body so that he could bury it. Alternate Translation: "asked for permission to get the body of Jesus in order to bury it"
Mrk 15:44
Pilate was amazed that Jesus was already dead; he called the centurion
Pilate heard people saying that Jesus was dead. This surprised him, so he asked the centurion if it was true. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "Pilate was amazed when he heard that Jesus was already dead, so he called the centurion"
Luk 1:2
were eyewitnesses and servants of the word
An "eyewitness" is a person who saw something happen, and a servant of the word is a person who serves God by telling people God's message. You may need to make it clear how they were servants of the word. Alternate Translation: "saw what had happened and served God by telling people his message"
Luk 1:5
division
It is understood that this refers to the priests. Alternate Translation: "division of priests" or "group of priests"
Luk 1:5
His wife was from the daughters of Aaron
His wife was descended from Aaron. This means she was from the same line of priests as Zechariah. Alternate Translation: "His wife was also descended from Aaron" or "Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth were both descended from Aaron"
Luk 1:8
Zechariah was in God's presence, carrying out the priestly duties
It is implied that Zechariah was in God's temple and that these priestly duties were part of worshiping God.
Luk 1:10
outside
The courtyard was the enclosed area surrounding the temple. Alternate Translation: "outside the temple building" or "in the courtyard outside the temple"
Luk 1:17
make ready for the Lord a people prepared for him
What the people will be prepared to do can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "make ready for the Lord a people who are prepared to believe his message"
Luk 1:26
In the sixth month
in the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy. It may be necessary to state this clearly if it would be confused with the sixth month of the year.
Luk 1:40
She went
It is implied that Mary finished her journey before she went in to Zechariah's house. This could be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "When she arrived, she went"
Luk 1:59
they came to circumcise the child
This was often a ceremony where one person circumcised the baby and friends were there to celebrate with the family. Alternate Translation: "they came for the baby's circumcision ceremony"
Luk 1:63
His father asked for a writing tablet
It may be helpful to state how Zechariah "asked," since he could not speak. Alternate Translation: "His father used his hands to show the people that he wanted them to give him a writing tablet"
Luk 1:65
Fear came on all who lived around them
All who lived around Zechariah and Elizabeth were afraid. It may be helpful to state clearly why they were afraid. Alternate Translation: "All who lived around them were in awe of God because he had done this to Zechariah"
Luk 1:68
the God of Israel
Israel here refers to the nation of Israel. The relationship between God and Israel could be stated more directly. Alternate Translation: "the God who reigns over Israel" or "the God whom Israel worships"
Luk 1:78
because of the tender mercy of our God
It might be helpful to state that God's mercy helps people. Alternate Translation: "because God is compassionate and merciful to us"
Luk 2:3
his own city
This refers to the cities where people's ancestors lived. People may have lived in a different city. Alternate Translation: "the city in which his ancestors lived"
Luk 2:4
to the city of David which is called Bethlehem
The phrase "the city of David" was a name for Bethlehem that tells why Bethlehem was important. Although it was a small town, King David was born there, and there was a prophecy that the Messiah would be born there. Alternate Translation: "to Bethlehem, the city of King David" or "to Bethlehem, the town where King David was born"
Luk 2:7
wrapped him in long strips of cloth
In some cultures mothers comfort their babies by wrapping them tightly in cloth or a blanket. Alternate Translation: "wrapped cloths firmly around him" or "wrapped him tightly in a blanket"
Luk 2:12
wrapped in strips of cloth
This was the normal way that mothers protected and cared for their babies in that culture. See how you translated this in [Luke 2:7](./07.md). Alternate Translation: "wrapped firmly in a warm blanket" or "wrapped comfortably in a blanket"
Luk 2:22
for their purification
for them to become ceremonially clean. You can also state God's role. Alternate Translation: "for God to consider them to be clean again"
Luk 2:27
into the temple
into the temple courtyard. Only priests could enter the temple building.
Luk 2:32
for revelation
It may be necessary to state what is to be revealed. Alternate Translation: "that will reveal God's truth"
Luk 2:39
their own town of Nazareth
This phrase means they lived in Nazareth. Make sure it does not sound like they owned the town. Alternate Translation: "the town of Nazareth, where they lived"
Luk 2:46
in the temple
This refers to the courtyard around the temple. Only the priests were allowed in the temple. Alternate Translation: "in the temple courtyard" or "at the temple"
Luk 3:8
We have Abraham for our father
Abraham is our ancestor or "We are Abraham's descendants." If it is unclear why they would say this, you may also add the implied information: "so God will not punish us."
Luk 3:16
John answered by saying to them all
John's answer about a greater person coming clearly implies that John is not the Christ. It may be helpful to state this clearly for your audience. Alternate Translation: "John clarified that he was not the Christ by saying to them all"
Luk 3:19
for marrying his brother's wife Herodias
because Herod married Herodias, his own brother's wife. This was evil because Herod's brother was still alive. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "because he married his brother's wife, Herodias, while his brother was still alive"
Luk 3:20
he locked John up in prison
Because Herod was tetrarch, he probably locked John up by ordering his soldiers to lock John up. Alternate Translation: "he had his soldiers lock John up in prison" or "he told his soldiers to put John in prison"
Luk 4:4
Jesus answered him, "It is written ... alone.'"
Jesus' rejection of the devil's challenge is clearly implied in his answer. It may be helpful to state this clearly for your audience, as the UDB does. Alternate Translation: "Jesus replied, 'No, I will not do that because it is written ... alone.'"
Luk 4:5
led Jesus up
He led Jesus up a mountain.
Luk 4:6
they have been given to me
This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are that "them" refers to 1) the authority and splendor of the kingdoms or 2) the kingdoms. Alternate Translation: "God has given them to me"
Luk 4:8
It is written
Jesus refused to do what the devil asked. It may be helpful to state this clearly. Alternate Translation: "No, I will not worship you, because it is written"
Luk 4:10
For it is written
The devil implies that his quote from the Psalms means Jesus will not be hurt if he is the Son of God. This can be stated clearly, as the UDB does. Alternate Translation: "You will not be hurt, because it is written"
Luk 4:12
It is said
Jesus tells the devil why he will not do what the devil told him to do. His refusal to do it can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "No, I will not do that, because it is said"
Luk 4:13
had finished testing Jesus
This does not imply that the devil was successful in his temptation—Jesus resisted every attempt. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "had finished trying to persuade Jesus to sin"
Luk 4:25
during the time of Elijah
The people to whom Jesus was speaking would have known that Elijah was one of God's prophets. If your readers would not know that, you can make this implicit information explicit as in the UDB. Alternate Translation: "when Elijah was prophesying in Israel"
Luk 4:26
to Zarephath ... to a widow living there
The people living in the town of Zarephath were Gentiles, not Jews. The people listening to Jesus would have understood that the people of Zarephath were Gentiles. Alternate Translation: "to a Gentile widow living in Zarephath"
Luk 4:38
pleaded with him on her behalf
This means they asked Jesus to heal her from the fever. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "asked Jesus to heal her from the fever" or "asked Jesus to cure her fever"
Luk 4:39
rebuked the fever, and it left her
spoke sternly to the fever, and it left her or "commanded the fever to leave her, and it did." It may be helpful to state clearly what he told the fever to do. Alternate Translation: "commanded that her skin should become cool, and it did" or "commanded the sickness to leave her, and it did"
Luk 4:41
Demons also came out
It is implied that Jesus made the demons leave the demon-possessed people. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "Jesus also forced demons to come out"
Luk 5:7
they began to sink
the boats began to sink. The reason could be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "the boats began to sink because the fish were so heavy"
Luk 5:12
you can make me clean
It is understood that he was asking Jesus to heal him. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "please make me clean, because you are able"
Luk 5:12
make me clean ... Be clean
This refers to ceremonial cleanness, but it is understood that he is unclean because of the leprosy. He is really asking Jesus to heal him of his disease. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "heal me from leprosy so I will be clean ... Be healed"
Luk 5:13
make me clean ... Be clean
This refers to ceremonial cleanness, but it is understood that he is unclean because of the leprosy. He is really asking Jesus to heal him of his disease. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "heal me from leprosy so I will be clean ... Be healed"
Luk 5:19
they went up to the housetop
Houses had flat roofs, and some houses had a ladder or staircase outside to make it easy to go up there. This can be stated. Alternate Translation: "they went up to the flat roof of the house"
Luk 5:29
reclining at the table
The Greek style of eating at a feast was to lie on a couch and prop oneself up with the left arm on some pillows. Alternate Translation: "eating together" or "eating at the table"
Luk 5:30
you eat and drink with ... sinful people
The Pharisees and scribes believed that religious people should separate themselves from people they consider to be sinners. The word "you" is plural.
Luk 5:34
the wedding attendants of the bridegroom fast
Fasting is a sign of sadness. The religious leaders understood that the wedding attendants would not fast while the bridegroom was with them.
Luk 5:37
the new wine would burst the skins
When the new wine ferments and expands, it breaks the old skins because they can no longer stretch out. Jesus' audience would have understood the information about the wine's fermenting and expanding.
Luk 5:39
for he says, 'The old is better.'
It may be helpful to add: "and he is therefore not willing to try the new wine"
Luk 6:1
rubbing them between their hands
They did this to separate the grain seeds. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "They rubbed them in their hands to separate the grains from the husks"
Luk 6:2
doing something
The Pharisees considered even the small action of rubbing a handful of grain to be unlawful work. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "doing work"
Luk 6:14
The names of the apostles were
Luke wrote a list of the names of the apostles. The ULB uses these words to introduce the list.
Luk 6:16
became a traitor
It may be necessary to explain what "traitor" means in this context. Alternate Translation: "betrayed his friend" or "turned his friend over to enemies" (usually in return for money paid) or "exposed a friend to danger by telling enemies about him"
Luk 6:28
Bless those
God is the one who blesses. This can made explicit. Alternate Translation: "Ask God to bless those"
Luk 6:34
to get back the same amount
The law of Moses commanded the Jews not to receive interest on money they loaned to each other.
Luk 6:48
built the house's foundation on solid rock
dug the foundation of the house deep enough to reach a foundation of solid rock. Some cultures may not be familiar with building on bedrock, and may need to use another image for a stable foundation.
Luk 6:49
on top of the ground without a foundation
Some cultures may not know that a house with a foundation is stronger. Additional information may be helpful. Alternate Translation: "but he did not dig down and build first a foundation"
Luk 7:9
not even in Israel have I found such faith.
The implication is that Jesus expected Jewish people to have this kind of faith, but they did not. He did not expect Gentiles to have this kind of faith, yet this man did. You may need to add this implied information. Alternate Translation: "I have not found any Israelite who trusts me as much as this Gentile does!"
Luk 7:25
dressed in soft clothes
This refers to expensive clothing. Normal clothing was rough. Alternate Translation: "wearing expensive clothing"
Luk 7:28
is greater than he is
The spiritual state of people in the kingdom of God will be higher than that of the people before the kingdom was established. Alternate Translation: "has higher spiritual status than John"
Luk 7:39
that she is a sinner
Simon assumed that a prophet would never allow a sinner to touch him. This part of his assumption can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "that she is a sinner, and he would not allow her to touch him"
Luk 7:44
You gave me no water for my feet
It was a basic responsibility of a host to provide water and a towel for guests to wash and dry their feet after walking on dusty roads.
Luk 7:45
You did not give me a kiss
A good host in that culture would greet his guest with a kiss on the cheek. Simon did not do this.
Luk 7:46
anoint my head with oil
put oil on my head. This was the custom to welcome an honored guest. Alternate Translation: "welcome me by anointing my head with oil"
Luk 7:47
the one who is forgiven little
anyone who is forgiven only a few things. In this sentence Jesus states a general principle. However, he expected Simon to understand that he showed very little love for Jesus.
Luk 8:23
their boat was filling with water
The strong winds caused high waves which pushed water over the sides of the boat. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "the winds caused high waves that started to fill up their boat with water"
Luk 8:42
As Jesus was on his way
Some translators may need to first say that Jesus had agreed to go with Jairus. Alternate Translation: "So Jesus agreed to go with him. As he was on his way"
Luk 8:45
the crowds of people ... are pressing in against you
By saying this, Peter was implying that anyone could have touched Jesus. This implicit information can be made explicit if necessary. Alternate Translation: "there are many people crowding around you and pressing in against you, so any one of them might have touched you"
Luk 8:46
Someone did touch me
It may be helpful to distinguish this intentional "touch" from the accidental touches of the crowd. Alternate Translation: "Someone deliberately touched me"
Luk 8:46
I know that power has gone out from me
Jesus did not lose power or become weak, but his power healed the woman. Alternate Translation: "I know that healing power went out from me" or "I felt my power heal someone"
Luk 8:49
Do not trouble the teacher
This statement implies that Jesus will not be able to do anything to help now that the girl is dead.
Luk 8:52
all were mourning and wailing for her
This was the normal way of showing grief in that culture. Alternate Translation: "all the people there were showing how sad they were and crying loudly because the girl had died"
Luk 8:55
Her spirit returned
Her spirit returned to her body. The Jews understood that life was the result of the spirit coming into a person. Alternate Translation: "She started breathing again" or "She came back to life" or "She became alive again"
Luk 9:9
I beheaded John. Who is this
Herod assumes that it is impossible for John to rise from the dead. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "It cannot be John because I had his head cut off. So who is this man"
Luk 9:9
I beheaded John
Herod's soldiers would have carried out executions. Alternate Translation: "I commanded my soldiers to cut off John's head"
Luk 9:16
up to heaven
This refers to looking up, toward the sky. The Jews believed that heaven was located above the sky.
Luk 9:19
that one of the prophets from long ago has risen
It may be helpful to clarify how this answer relates to Jesus' question. Alternate Translation: "that you are one of the prophets from long ago and have risen"
Luk 9:34
they were afraid
These adult disciples were not afraid of clouds. This phrase indicates that some kind of unusual fear came over them with the cloud. Alternate Translation: "they were terrified"
Luk 9:35
A voice came out of the cloud
It is understood that the voice could only have belonged to God. Alternate Translation: "God spoke to them from the cloud"
Luk 9:53
because he had set his face to go to Jerusalem
The Samaritans and the Jews hated each other. Therefore the Samaritans would not help Jesus on his journey to Jerusalem, the Jewish capital.
Luk 9:54
command fire to come down from heaven and destroy them
James and John suggested this method of judgment because they knew that this was how the prophets such as Elijah had judged people who rejected God.
Luk 10:12
the judgment day
The disciples would have understood that this refers to the time of final judgment of sinners.
Luk 10:14
But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you
It may be helpful to clearly state the reason for their judgment. Alternate Translation: "But because you did not repent and believe in me even though you saw me do miracles, God will judge you more severely than he will judge the people of Tyre and Sidon"
Luk 10:16
the one who sent me
This refers to God the Father, who appointed Jesus for this special task. Alternate Translation: "God, who sent me"
Luk 10:17
The seventy returned
Some languages will need to say that the seventy actually went out first as the UDB does. This is implicit information that can be made explicit.
Luk 10:23
Then he turned around to the disciples and said privately
The word "privately" indicates that he was alone with his disciples. Alternate Translation: "Later, when he was alone with his disciples, he turned to them and said"
Luk 10:23
Blessed are those who see the things that you see
This probably refers to the good works and miracles that Jesus was doing. Alternate Translation: "How good it is for those who see the things that you see me doing"
Luk 10:24
and they did not see them
This implies that Jesus was not yet doing those things. Alternate Translation: "but could not see them because I was not doing them yet"
Luk 10:24
the things that you hear
This probably refers to the teaching of Jesus. Alternate Translation: "the things that you have heard me say"
Luk 10:24
and they did not hear them
This implies that Jesus was not yet teaching. Alternate Translation: "but could not hear them because I had not yet started to teach"
Luk 10:29
Who is my neighbor?
The man wanted to know whom he was required to love. Alternate Translation: "Who should I consider to be my neighbor and love as I love myself?" or "Which people are my neighbors that I should love?"
Luk 10:31
when he saw him
when the priest saw the injured man. A priest is a very religious person, so the audience would assume that he would help the injured man. Since he did not, this phrase could be stated as "but when he saw him" to call attention to this unexpected result.
Luk 10:31
he passed by on the other side
It is implied that he did not help the man. Alternate Translation: "he did not help the injured man but instead walked past him on the other side of the road"
Luk 10:32
a Levite ... the other side
The Levite served in the temple. He would be expected to help his fellow Jewish man. Since he did not, it may are helpful to state that. Alternate Translation: "a Levite ... the other side and did not help him"
Luk 10:33
a certain Samaritan
The Jews despised the Samaritans and would have assumed that he would not help the injured Jewish man.
Luk 10:34
pouring oil and wine on them
Wine was used to clean the wound, and oil was probably used to prevent infection. This can be stated. Alternate Translation: "pouring oil and wine on them to help heal them"
Luk 10:39
sat at the Lord's feet
This was the normal and respectful position for a learner at that time. Alternate Translation: "sat on the floor near Jesus"
Luk 10:42
only one thing is necessary
Jesus is contrasting what Mary is doing with what Martha is doing. It may be helpful to make this explicit. Alternate Translation: "the only thing that is really necessary is to listen to my teaching" or "listening to my teaching is more necessary than preparing a meal"
Luk 11:6
just came in from the road
It is implied that the visitor has come far from his home. Alternate Translation: "was traveling and just came to my house"
Luk 11:14
demon that was mute
The demon has power to prevent people from speaking. Alternate Translation: "demon that caused the man to be unable to speak"
Luk 11:18
For you say I cast out demons by Beelzebul
For you say that it is by the power of Beelzebul that I make demons leave people. The next part of his argument can be stated explicitly: Alternate Translation: "For you say that it is by the power of Beelzebul that I make demons leave people. That would mean that Satan is divided against himself"
Luk 11:23
the one who does not gather with me scatters
Jesus is referring to gathering disciples who follow him. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "anyone who does not cause people to come and follow me causes them to go away from me"
Luk 11:29
It seeks a sign
The information about what kind of sign it seeks can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "It wants me to perform a miracle as proof that I have come from God"
Luk 11:31
someone greater than Solomon is here
Jesus is speaking about himself. Alternate Translation: "I, who am greater than Solomon, am here"
Luk 11:31
someone greater than Solomon
Jesus is speaking about himself. Alternate Translation: "I am greater than Solomon"
Luk 11:32
The men of Nineveh
It may be helpful to state explicitly that this refers to the ancient city of Nineveh. Alternate Translation: "The men who lived in the ancient city of Nineveh"
Luk 11:32
someone greater than Jonah is here
Jesus is speaking about himself. It may be helpful to explicitly state that they have not listened to him. Alternate Translation: "even though I am greater than Jonah, you still have not repented"
Luk 11:37
reclined
It was the custom for a relaxed meal such as this dinner for men to eat while lying down comfortably around the table. You might want to translate using the word your language uses for the way people's bodies are when they eat. Alternate Translation: "sat down at the table"
Luk 11:38
wash
The Pharisees had a rule that people must wash their hands in order to be ceremonially clean before God. Alternate Translation: "wash his hands" or "wash his hands in order to be ritually clean"
Luk 11:39
the outside of cups and bowls
Washing of the outside of containers was a part of the ritual practices of the Pharisees.
Luk 11:41
Give to the poor what is inside
This refers to what they should be doing with their cups and bowls. Alternate Translation: "Give to the poor what is inside your cups and bowls" or "Be generous to the poor"
Luk 11:44
without knowing it
When the Jews walked over a grave, they would become ceremonially unclean. These unmarked graves caused them to accidentally do that. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "without realizing it and become ceremonially unclean"
Luk 11:48
So you are witnesses and you consent
Jesus is rebuking the Pharisees and teachers of the law. They know about the murder of the prophets, but do not condemn their ancestors for killing them. Alternate Translation: "So, rather than denouncing them, you confirm and agree"
Luk 12:5
Fear the one who, after ... has authority
The phrase "the one" refers to God. This could be reworded. Alternate Translation: "Fear God who, after ... has authority" or "Fear God, because after ... he has authority"
Luk 12:8
everyone who confesses me before men
What is confessed can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "whoever tells others that he is my disciple" or "anyone who acknowledges before others that he is loyal to me"
Luk 12:9
he who denies me before men
he who disowns me before people. What is denied can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "whoever refuses to acknowledge to others that he is my disciple" or "if anyone refuses to say that he is loyal to me, he"
Luk 12:13
divide the inheritance with me
In that culture, inheritances came from the father, usually after the father had died. You may need to make explicit that the speaker's father had probably died. Alternate Translation: "share my father's property with me now that our father is dead"
Luk 12:27
neither do they spin
The process of making thread or yard for cloth is called "spinning." It may be helpful to make this explicit. Alternate Translation: "neither do they make thread in order to make cloth" or "and they do not make yarn"
Luk 12:35
Let your long clothing be tucked in at your belt
People wore long flowing robes. They would tuck them into their belt to keep the robes out of the way while they worked. Alternate Translation: "Tuck your clothing into your belt so you are ready to serve" or "Be dressed and ready to serve"
Luk 12:36
open the door for him
This refers to the door of the master's house. It was the responsibility of his servants to open it for him.
Luk 12:54
When you see a cloud rising ... happens
This condition normally meant rain was coming in Israel.
Luk 12:55
When a south wind is blowing
This condition normally meant hot weather was coming in Israel.
Luk 13:1
whose blood Pilate mixed with their own sacrifices
Here "blood" refers to the death of the Galileans. They were probably killed while they were offering their sacrifices. This could be stated explicitly as in the UDB.
Luk 13:4
they were worse sinners
The crowd assumed that they died in this terrible way because they were especially sinful. This could be explicitly stated. Alternate Translation: "they died because they were worse sinners"
Luk 13:5
No, I say
Here "I say" emphasizes "No." It may be helpful to state Jesus' point clearly. Alternate Translation: "They certainly did not die because they were more sinful" or "You are wrong to think that their suffering proves that they were more sinful"
Luk 13:8
put manure on it
put manure in the soil. Manure is animal dung. People put it in the ground to make the soil good for plants and trees. Alternate Translation: "put fertilizer on it"
Luk 13:15
Hypocrites
Jesus speaks directly to the synagogue ruler, but the plural form includes the other religious rulers also. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "You and your fellow religious leaders are hypocrites"
Luk 13:19
threw into his garden
planted in his garden. People planted some kinds of seeds by throwing them so that they scattered in the garden.
Luk 13:21
like yeast
Only a little bit of yeast is needed to make a lot of dough rise. This can be made clear, as it is in the UDB.
Luk 13:24
the narrow door
The fact that the door is narrow implies that it is difficult to go through it. Translate it in a way to keep this restrictive meaning.
Luk 13:24
many will want to enter, but will not be able to enter
It is implied that they will not be able to enter because of the difficulty of entering. The next verse explains the difficulty.
Luk 14:14
in the resurrection of the just
This refers to the final judgment. Alternate Translation: "when God brings the righteous people back to life"
Luk 14:16
A certain man prepared a large dinner and invited many
The reader should be able to infer that the man probably had his servants prepare the meal and invite the guests.
Luk 14:18
The first said to him ... Another said ... another man said
The reader should be able to infer that these people spoke directly to the servant whom the master had sent out ([Luke 14:17](./17.md)). Alternate Translation: "The first sent him a message, saying ... Another sent a message, saying ... another man sent a message, saying" or "The first told the servant to say ... Another told the servant to say ... another man told the servant to say"
Luk 14:19
The first said to him ... Another said ... another man said
The reader should be able to infer that these people spoke directly to the servant whom the master had sent out ([Luke 14:17](./17.md)). Alternate Translation: "The first sent him a message, saying ... Another sent a message, saying ... another man sent a message, saying" or "The first told the servant to say ... Another told the servant to say ... another man told the servant to say"
Luk 14:19
five pairs of oxen
Oxen were used in pairs to pull farming tools. Alternate Translation: "10 oxen to work in my fields"
Luk 14:20
The first said to him ... Another said ... another man said
The reader should be able to infer that these people spoke directly to the servant whom the master had sent out ([Luke 14:17](./17.md)). Alternate Translation: "The first sent him a message, saying ... Another sent a message, saying ... another man sent a message, saying" or "The first told the servant to say ... Another told the servant to say ... another man told the servant to say"
Luk 14:22
The servant said
It may be necessary to state clearly the implied information that the servant did what the master commanded him. Alternate Translation: "After the servant went out and did that, he came back and said"
Luk 14:29
is not able to finish
It is understood that he was not able to finish because he did not have enough money. This could be stated. Alternate Translation: "does not have enough money to be able to finish"
Luk 15:5
lays it across his shoulders
This is the way a shepherd carries a sheep. This could be stated. Alternate Translation: "lays it across his shoulders to carry it home"
Luk 15:16
would gladly have eaten
wished very much that he could eat. It is understood that this is because he was very hungry. This could be stated. Alternate Translation: "he was so hungry that he would have happily eaten"
Luk 15:23
fattened calf
A calf is a young cow. People would give one of their calves special food so that it would grow well, and then when they wanted to have a special feast, they would eat that calf. Alternate Translation: "the best calf" or "the young animal we have been making fat"
Luk 15:23
kill it
The implied information that they were to cook the meat can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "kill it and cook it"
Luk 15:25
out in the field
It is implied that he was out in the field because he was working there.
Luk 15:27
the fattened calf
A calf is a young cow. People would give one of their calves special food so that it would grow well, and then when they wanted to have a special feast, they would eat that calf. See how you translated this phrase in [Luke 15:23](./23.md). Alternate Translation: "the best calf" or "the young animal we have been making fat"
Luk 15:29
a young goat
A young goat was smaller and less expensive than a fatted calf. Alternate Translation: "even a young goat"
Luk 15:30
fattened calf
A calf is a young cow. People would give one of their calves special food so that it would grow well, and then when they wanted to have a special feast, they would eat that calf. See how you translated this phrase in [Luke 15:23](./23.md). Alternate Translation: "the best calf" or "the young animal we have been making fat"
Luk 16:4
people will welcome me into their houses
This implies that those people will provide a job, or other things that he needs to live.
Luk 16:16
John came
This refers to John the Baptist. Alternate Translation: "John the Baptist came"
Luk 16:17
than for one stroke of a letter
A "stroke" is the smallest part of a letter. It refers to something in the law that may seem to be insignificant. Alternate Translation: "than for even the smallest detail of the law"
Luk 16:22
to Abraham's side ... at his side
This implies that Abraham and Lazarus were reclining next to each other at a feast, in the Greek style of feasting. The joy in heaven is often represented in the scriptures by the idea of a feast.
Luk 16:23
to Abraham's side ... at his side
This implies that Abraham and Lazarus were reclining next to each other at a feast, in the Greek style of feasting. The joy in heaven is often represented in the scriptures by the idea of a feast.
Luk 16:29
They have Moses and the prophets
It is implied that Abraham refused to send Lazarus to the rich man's brothers. This could be stated. Alternate Translation: "No, I will not do that, because your brothers have what Moses and the prophets wrote long ago"
Luk 17:4
seven times in the day, and seven times
The number seven in the Bible is a symbol for completeness. Alternate Translation: "many times in a day, and each time"
Luk 17:8
put a belt around your clothes and serve me
tie your clothes at your waist and serve me or "dress up properly and take care of me." People would tie their clothes closely around their waist so that their clothes would not get in their way while they worked.
Luk 17:12
They stood far away from him
This was a respectful gesture, because lepers were not allowed to approach other people.
Luk 17:13
have mercy on us
They were specifically asking to be healed. Alternate Translation: "please show us mercy by healing us"
Luk 17:14
show yourselves to the priests
Lepers were required to have the priests verify that their leprosy was healed. Alternate Translation: "show yourselves to the priests so they can examine you"
Luk 17:14
they were cleansed
When people were healed, they were no longer ceremonially unclean. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "they were healed of their leprosy and so became clean" or "they were cured of their leprosy"
Luk 17:17
Then Jesus said
Jesus responded to what the man did, but he was speaking to the group of people around him. Alternate Translation: "So Jesus said to the crowd"
Luk 17:20
The kingdom of God does not come with careful observing
People thought that they would be able to see signs of the kingdom coming. The idea of signs can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "The kingdom of God does not come with signs that people can observe"
Luk 17:22
one of the days of the Son of Man
This refers to the kingdom of God. Alternate Translation: "one of the days when the Son of Man will rule as king"
Luk 17:23
Look, there! Look, here!
This refers to seeking the Messiah. Alternate Translation: "Look, the Messiah is over there! He is over here!"
Luk 17:23
do not go out or run after them
The purpose of going out can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "do not go with them to look"
Luk 17:24
so will the Son of Man be in his day
This refers to the future kingdom of God. Alternate Translation: "it will be like that on the day when the Son of Man comes to reign"
Luk 17:30
After the same manner it will be
It will be like that. Alternate Translation: "In the same way people will not be ready"
Luk 17:31
return
They were not to go back to the house to get anything. They were to flee quickly.
Luk 18:11
or even like this tax collector
The Pharisees believed that tax collectors were as sinful as robbers, unrighteous people, and adulterers. This could be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "and I am certainly not like this sinful tax collector who cheats people"
Luk 18:14
this man went back down to his house justified
He was justified because God forgave his sin. Alternate Translation: "God forgave the tax collector"
Luk 18:14
rather than the other
rather than the other man or "and not the other man." Alternate Translation: "but God did not forgive the Pharisee"
Luk 19:7
they all complained
The Jews hated the tax collectors and did not think any good person should associate with them.
Luk 19:11
that the kingdom of God was about to appear immediately
The Jews believed that the Messiah would establish the kingdom as soon as he came to Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "that Jesus would immediately begin to rule over God's kingdom"
Luk 19:12
to receive for himself a kingdom
This is the image of a lesser king going to a greater king. The greater king would give the lesser king the right and authority to rule over his own country.
Luk 19:16
your mina has made ten minas more
It is implied that the servant was the one who caused the profit. Alternate Translation: "I used your mina to make a profit of ten more minas"
Luk 19:18
Your mina, lord, has made five minas
It is implied that the servant was the one who caused the profit. Alternate Translation: "Lord, I used your mina to make a profit of five more minas"
Luk 19:26
everyone who has will be given more
It is implied that what he has is the money he earned by using his mina faithfully. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "everyone who uses well what he has been given, I will give him more" or "to everyone who uses well what I have given him I will give more"
Luk 19:26
from him that has not
It is implied that the reason he does not have money is because he did not use his mina faithfully. Alternate Translation: "from the person who does not use well what I have given him"
Luk 19:45
Jesus entered the temple
You may need to make explicit that he first entered Jerusalem, where the temple was located. Alternate Translation: "Jesus entered Jerusalem and then went to the temple courtyard"
Luk 19:45
entered the temple
Only priests were allowed to enter the temple building. Alternate Translation: "went into the temple courtyard"
Luk 20:6
stone us
kill us by throwing stones on us. God's Law commanded that his people stone those of his people who mocked him or his prophets.
Luk 20:19
they were afraid of the people
This is the reason that they did not arrest Jesus right away. The people respected Jesus, and the religious leaders were afraid of what the people might do if they arrested him. Alternate Translation: "they did not arrest him because they were afraid of the people"
Luk 20:20
to the rule and to the authority of the governor
Rule and "authority" are two ways of saying that they wanted the governor to judge Jesus. It can be translated with one or both expressions. Alternate Translation: "so that the governor would punish Jesus"
Luk 20:28
have a child for his brother
The Jews considered the first son born to a woman who married her dead husband's brother as if he were the son of the woman's first husband. This son inherited the property of his mother's first husband and carried on his name.
Luk 20:34
marry and are given in marriage
In that culture they spoke of men marrying women and women being given in marriage to their husband. This can also be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "get married"
Luk 20:35
will neither marry nor be given in marriage
In that culture they spoke of men marrying women and women being given in marriage to their husband. This can also be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "will not marry" or "will not get married." This is after the resurrection.
Luk 20:36
Neither can they die anymore
This is after the resurrection. Alternate Translation: "They will not be able to die anymore"
Luk 20:37
in the place concerning the bush
in the part of scripture where he wrote about the burning bush or "in the scripture about the burning bush"
Luk 20:38
but of the living
but the God of living people. Since these people died physically, they must still be alive spiritually. Alternate Translation: "but the God of people whose spirits are alive, even though their bodies may have died"
Luk 20:39
Some of the scribes answered
Some of the scribes said to Jesus. There were scribes present when the Sadducees were questioning Jesus.
Luk 20:40
they did not dare ask him any more questions
they were afraid to ask ... questions or "they did not risk asking ... questions." They understood that they did not know as much as Jesus did, but they did not want to say that. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "they did ask him any more tricky questions because they feared that his wise answers would make them appear foolish again"
Luk 20:41
they say
The prophets, the religious rulers, and the Jewish people in general knew that the Messiah was the son of David. Alternate Translation: "everyone says" or "people say"
Luk 20:44
David therefore calls the Christ 'Lord'
In the culture of that time, a father was more respected than a son. David's us of the title 'Lord' for the Christ implies that he was greater than David.
Luk 20:46
who desire to walk in long robes
Long robes would show that they were important. Alternate Translation: "who like to walk around wearing their important robes"
Luk 21:1
gifts
You may need to make explicit what the gifts were. Alternate Translation: "gifts of money"
Luk 21:9
the end will not happen immediately
This refers to the final judgment. Alternate Translation: "the end of the world will not happen immediately after the wars and riots" or "the world will not end immediately after those things happen"
Luk 21:23
wrath to this people
there will be wrath to the people at that time. God will bring this wrath. Alternate Translation: "this people will experience God's anger" or "God will be very angry and will punish this people"
Luk 21:30
summer is already near
summer is about to start. Summer in Israel follows the sprouting of fig tree leaves and is the time when the figs ripen. Alternate Translation: "harvest time is ready to start"
Luk 21:34
that day will close on you suddenly
The coming of that day will appear to be sudden and unexpected to those who are not ready and watching for it. Alternate Translation: "life. For if you are not careful, that day will close on you suddenly"
Luk 21:37
in the temple
Only priests were allowed in the temple. Alternate Translation: "at the temple" or "in the temple courtyard"
Luk 22:1
Festival of Unleavened Bread
The festival was called by this name because during the festival, the Jews did not eat bread that was made with yeast. Alternate Translation: "festival when they would eat unleavened bread"
Luk 22:7
the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed
Each family or group of people would kill a lamb and eat it together, so many lambs were killed. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "people had to kill a lamb for their Passover meal"
Luk 22:34
this day
The Jewish day begins at sunset. Jesus was speaking after the sun had set. The rooster would crow just before morning. The morning was part of "this day." Alternate Translation: "tonight" or "in the morning"
Luk 22:49
strike with the sword
The question is about the type of fight they should engage in (a sword fight), not what weapon they should use (the swords that they brought, [Luke 22:38](./38.md)), but your translation may need to speak of the weapons they brought. Alternate Translation: "fight against them with the swords we brought"
Luk 22:59
he is a Galilean
The man could probably tell Peter was from Galilee from the way he talked.
Luk 22:61
today
The Jewish day started at sundown and continued to the next evening. Jesus had spoken the previous evening about what would happen shortly before dawn or at dawn. Alternate Translation: "tonight"
Luk 22:64
Prophesy!
Speak words from God! The implied information is that God would have to tell Jesus who struck him since Jesus was blindfolded and could not see.
Luk 22:70
Then you are the Son of God?
The council asked this question because they wanted Jesus to explicitly confirm their understanding that he was saying he was the Son of God. Alternate Translation: "So when you said that, did you mean that you are the Son of God?"
Luk 23:3
You say so
Possible meanings are 1) by saying this, Jesus implied that he is the King of the Jews. Alternate Translation: "Yes, as you said, I am" or "Yes. It is as you said" or 2) by saying this, Jesus was saying that Pilate, not Jesus, was the one calling him the King of the Jews. Alternate Translation: "You yourself have said so"
Luk 23:7
he was under Herod's authority
The passage does not state the implied fact that Herod was the ruler of Galilee. Alternate Translation: "Jesus was under the authority of Herod because Herod ruled over Galilee"
Luk 23:12
Herod and Pilate had become friends with each other that very day
The implied information is that they became friends because Herod appreciated Pilate allowing him to judge Jesus. Alternate Translation: "Herod and Pilate became friends with each other that very day because Pilate had sent Jesus to Herod for judgment"
Luk 23:13
the crowd of people
It is not likely that Pilate asked a crowd to come. The crowd was probably still there waiting to see what would happen to Jesus. Alternate Translation: "the crowd that was still there"
Luk 23:14
I, having questioned him before you
I have questioned Jesus in your presence, and. It is implied that they were witnesses to the proceedings. Alternate Translation: "I have questioned Jesus with you here as witnesses, and"
Luk 23:18
Away with this man, and release
Take this man away! Release. They are asking him to have his soldiers kill Jesus. Alternate Translation: "Take this man away and execute him! Release"
Luk 23:37
If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself
The soldiers were mocking Jesus. Alternate Translation: "We do not believe you are the King of the Jews, but if you are, prove us wrong by saving yourself"
Luk 23:51
with the decision of the Council and their action
What the decision was can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "with either the Council's decision to kill Jesus or with their action in killing him"
Luk 23:56
prepared spices and ointments
Because they had had no time to honor Jesus by putting fragrant spices and ointments on his body on the day he died, they were going to do it on the morning of the first day of the week. Alternate Translation: "prepared spices and ointments to put on Jesus' body"
Luk 24:3
did not find the body of the Lord Jesus
You can state explicitly that they did not find it because it was not there. Alternate Translation: "the body of the Lord Jesus was not there"
Luk 24:12
the linen cloths by themselves
only the linen cloths. This refers to the cloths that had been wrapped around Jesus' body when he was buried in [Luke 23:53](../23/53.md). It is implied that the body of Jesus was not there. Alternate Translation: "the linen cloths in which Jesus' body had been wrapped, but Jesus was not there"
Luk 24:21
who was going to redeem Israel
The Romans ruled over the Jews. Alternate Translation: "who would free the Israelites from our Roman enemies"
Luk 24:43
ate it before them
Jesus did this to prove that he had a physical body. Spirits would not be able to eat food.
Luk 24:49
I am sending you what my Father promised
I will give you what my Father promised to give you. God had promised to give the Holy Spirit. The UDB makes this explicit.
Luk 24:53
in the temple
Only priests were allowed into the temple building. Alternate Translation: "in the temple courtyard"
Jhn 1:27
who comes after me
You may need to make explicit what he will do when he has come. Alternate Translation: "who will preach to you after I am gone"
Jhn 4:25
he will explain everything to us
The words "explain everything" imply all that the people need to know. Alternate Translation: "he will tell us everything we need to know"
Jhn 6:1
Jesus went away
It is implied in the text that Jesus traveled by boat and took his disciples with him. Alternate Translation: "Jesus traveled by boat with his disciples"
Jhn 6:21
they were willing to receive him into the boat
It is implied that Jesus gets into the boat. Alternate Translation: "they gladly received him into the boat"
Jhn 7:8
my time has not yet been fulfilled
Here Jesus is implying that if he goes to Jerusalem, he will bring his work to an end. Alternate Translation: "It is not the right time for me to go to Jerusalem"
Jhn 7:22
on the Sabbath you circumcise a man
Jesus implies that the act of circumcision also involves work. Alternate Translation: "you circumcise a male baby on the Sabbath. That is working too"
Jhn 7:24
Do not judge according to appearance, but judge righteously
Jesus implies that the people should not decide what is right, based only on what they can see. Behind the action is a motive that cannot be seen. Alternate Translation: "Stop judging people according to what you see! Be more concerned with what is right according to God"
Jhn 7:26
they say nothing to him
This implies that the Jewish leaders are not opposing Jesus. Alternate Translation: "they say nothing to oppose him"
Jhn 7:28
in the temple
Jesus and the people were actually in the courtyard of the temple. Alternate Translation: "in the temple courtyard"
Jhn 7:39
the Spirit had not yet been given
John implies that the Spirit would later come to live in those who trusted Jesus. Alternate Translation: "the Spirit had not yet come to live in the believers"
Jhn 7:40
This is indeed the prophet
By saying this, the people are indicating that they believe Jesus is the prophet like Moses that God had promised to send. Alternate Translation: "This is indeed the prophet who is like Moses that we have been waiting for"
Jhn 7:46
Never has anyone spoken like this
The officers exaggerate to show how impressed they are by what Jesus said. You may need to make explicit that the officer were not claiming to know everything that every person in all times and places had ever said. "We have never heard anyone say such amazing things as this man!"
Jhn 8:6
so that they might have something to accuse him about
What they would accuse him of can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "so that they could accuse him of saying something wrong" or "so that they could accuse him of not obeying the law of Moses or the Roman law"
Jhn 8:13
your witness is not true
The Pharisees are implying that the witness of only one person is not true because it cannot be verified. Alternate Translation: "you cannot be your own witness" or "what you say about yourself may not be true"
Jhn 8:16
I am not alone
The implied information is that Jesus is not alone in his judgment. Alternate Translation: "I am not alone in how I judge" or "I do not judge alone"
Jhn 8:17
the testimony of two men is true
The logic implied here is that one person can verify the words of another. Alternate Translation: "if two men say the same thing, then people know it is true"
Jhn 8:18
the Father who sent me bears witness about me
The Father also bears witness about Jesus. You could make it explicit that this means Jesus' testimony is true. Alternate Translation: "my Father who sent me also brings evidence about me. So you should believe that what we tell you is true"
Jhn 8:36
if the Son sets you free, you will be truly free
It is implied that Jesus is talking about freedom from sin, which is a metaphor for being able not to sin. Alternate Translation: "if the Son msets you free, you will truly be able to refrain from sin"
Jhn 8:41
You do the works of your father
Jesus implies that their father is the devil. Alternate Translation: "No! You are doing the things that your real father did"
Jhn 8:41
We were not born in sexual immorality
Here the Jewish leaders imply that Jesus does not know who his real father is. Alternate Translation: "We do not know about you, but we are not illegitimate children" or "We were all born from proper marriages"
Jhn 8:59
Then they picked up stones to throw at him
The Jewish leaders are outraged at what Jesus has said. Here it is implied that they wanted to kill him because he had made himself equal to God. Alternate Translation: "Then they picked up stones to kill him because he claimed to be equal with God"
Jhn 9:2
who sinned, this man or his parents ... blind?
This question reflects the ancient Jewish belief that sin caused all illnesses and other deformities. The rabbis also taught that it was possible for a baby to sin while still in the womb. Alternate Translation: "Teacher, we know that sin causes a person to be blind. Whose sin caused this man to be born blind? did this man himself sin, or was it his parents who sinned?"
Jhn 9:6
made mud with the saliva
Jesus used his fingers to mix the dirt and saliva. Alternate Translation: "and used his fingers to mix the dirt and saliva to make mud"
Jhn 9:7
wash ... washed
You may need to make explicit that Jesus wanted him to wash the mud off of his eyes in the pool and that that is what the man did.
Jhn 9:29
we do not know where this one is from
Here the Jewish leaders are referring to Jesus. They imply that he has no authority to call disciples. Alternate Translation: "we do not know where he comes from or where he gets his authority"
Jhn 9:30
that you do not know where he is from
The man is surprised that the Jewish leaders question Jesus' authority when they know he has the power to heal. Alternate Translation: "that you do not know where he gets his authority"
Jhn 10:8
Everyone who came before me
This refers to other teachers who have taught the people, including the Pharisees and other Jewish leaders. Alternate Translation: "All of the teachers who came without my authority"
Jhn 10:10
steal and kill and destroy
Here the implied metaphor is "sheep," which represents God's people. Alternate Translation: "steal and kill and destroy the sheep"
Jhn 10:23
Jesus was walking in the temple
The area where Jesus was walking was actually a courtyard that was outside the temple building. Alternate Translation: "Jesus was walking in the temple courtyard"
Jhn 10:40
beyond the Jordan
Jesus had been on the west side of the Jordan River. Alternate Translation: "to the east side of the Jordan River"
Jhn 10:40
he stayed there
Jesus remained on the east side of Jordan for a short period of time. Alternate Translation: "Jesus stayed there for several days"
Jhn 11:4
This sickness is not to death
Jesus implies that he knows what will happen related to Lazarus and his sickness. Alternate Translation: "Death will not be the final result of this sickness"
Jhn 11:4
instead it is for the glory of God so that the Son of God may be glorified by it
Jesus implies that he knows what the outcome will be. Alternate Translation: "but the purpose is that the people might see how great God is because of what his power will allow me to do"
Jhn 11:19
about their brother
Lazarus was their younger brother. Alternate Translation: "about their younger brother"
Jhn 11:21
my brother would not have died
Lazarus was the younger brother. Alternate Translation: "my younger brother would still be alive"
Jhn 11:23
Your brother will rise again
Lazarus was the younger brother. Alternate Translation: "Your younger brother will become alive again"
Jhn 11:28
she went away and called her sister Mary
Mary is the younger sister of Martha. Alternate Translation: "she went away and called her younger sister Mary"
Jhn 11:32
my brother would not have died
Lazarus was Mary's younger brother. See how you translated this in [John 11:21](./21.md). Alternate Translation: "my younger brother would still be alive"
Jhn 11:39
Martha, the sister of Lazarus
Martha and Mary were older sisters of Lazarus. Alternate Translation: "Martha, the older sister of Lazarus"
Jhn 11:47
What will we do?
It is implied here that the council members are talking about Jesus. Alternate Translation: "What are we going to do about Jesus?"
Jhn 11:48
all will believe in him
The Jewish leaders were afraid that the people would try to make Jesus their king. Alternate Translation: "everyone will trust in him and rebel against Rome"
Jhn 11:50
than that the whole nation perishes
Caiaphas implies that the Roman army would kill all of the people of the Jewish nation if Jesus is allowed to live and cause a rebellion. The word "nation" here is a synecdoche that represents all of the Jewish people. Alternate Translation: "than that the Romans kill all the people of our nation"
Jhn 11:54
There he stayed with the disciples
Jesus and his disciples stayed in Ephraim for a while. Alternate Translation: "There he stayed with his disciples for a short period of time"
Jhn 12:7
Allow her to keep what she has for the day of my burial
Jesus implies that the woman's actions can be understood as anticipating his death and burial. Alternate Translation: "Allow her to show how much she appreciates me! In this way she has prepared my body for burial"
Jhn 12:8
You will always have the poor with you
Jesus implies that there will always be opportunities to help the poor people. Alternate Translation: "There will always be poor people among you, and you can help them whenever you want"
Jhn 12:8
But you will not always have me
In this way, Jesus implies that he will die. Alternate Translation: "But I will not always be here with you"
Jhn 12:11
believed in Jesus
This implies that many of the Jewish people were trusting in Jesus as the Son of God. Alternate Translation: "were putting their trust in Jesus"
Jhn 12:19
Look, you can do nothing
The Pharisees imply here that it might be impossible to stop Jesus. Alternate Translation: "It seems like we can do nothing to stop him"
Jhn 12:20
to worship at the festival
John implies that these "Greeks" were going to worship God during the Passover. Alternate Translation: "to worship God at the Passover festival"
Jhn 12:23
The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified
Jesus implies that it is now the right time for God to honor the Son of Man through his upcoming suffering, death and resurrection. Alternate Translation: "God will soon honor me when I die and rise again"
Jhn 12:25
He who loves his life will lose it
Here "loves his life" means to consider one's own physical life to be more valuable than the lives of others. Alternate Translation: "whoever values his own life more than others will not receive eternal life"
Jhn 12:25
he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life
Here the one who "hates his life" refers to one who loves his own life less than he loves the lives of others. Alternate Translation: "whoever considers the lives of others as more important than his own life will live with God forever"
Jhn 12:26
where I am, there will my servant also be
Jesus implies that those who serve him will be with him in heaven. Alternate Translation: "when I am in heaven, my servant will also be there with me"
Jhn 12:44
Jesus cried out and said
Here John implies that a crowd of people had gathered to hear Jesus speak. Alternate Translation: "Jesus shouted out to the crowd that had gathered"
Jhn 12:47
If anyone hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I have not come to judge the world, but to save the world
Here "to judge the world" implies condemnation. Jesus did not come to condemn people. Alternate Translation: "If anyone hears my teaching and rejects it, I do not condemn him. I have not come to condemn people. Instead, I have come to save those who trust in me"
Jhn 13:11
Not all of you are clean
Jesus implies that the one who will betray him, Judas, has not trusted in him. Therefore God has not forgiven him of his sins. Alternate Translation: "Not all of you have received God's forgiveness"
Jhn 13:13
You call me 'teacher' and 'Lord,'
Here Jesus implies that his disciples have great respect for him. Alternate Translation: "You show me great respect when you call me 'teacher' and 'Lord.'"
Jhn 13:15
you should also do just as I did for you
Jesus implies that his disciples should be willing to follow his example and serve one another. Alternate Translation: "you should also humbly serve each other"
Jhn 13:23
lying down at the table
During the time of Christ, Jews would often dine together in the Greek style, in which they lay on their sides on low couches.
Jhn 14:6
no one comes to the Father except through me
People can come to God and live with him only by trusting Jesus. Alternate Translation: "No one can come to the Father and live with him unless he comes through me"
Jhn 14:18
leave you alone
Here Jesus implies that he will not leave his disciples with no one to care for them. Alternate Translation: "leave you with no one to care for you"
Jhn 14:23
we will come to him and we will make our home with him
The Father and the Son will share life with those who obey what Jesus commands. Alternate Translation: "we will come to live with him, and will have a personal relationship with him"
Jhn 14:28
I am going to the Father
Here Jesus implies that he will return to his Father. Alternate Translation: "I am going back to the Father"
Jhn 14:28
the Father is greater than I
Here Jesus implies that the Father has greater authority than the Son while the Son is on the earth. Alternate Translation: "the Father has greater authority than I have here"
Jhn 14:30
ruler ... is coming
Here Jesus implies that Satan is coming to attack him. Alternate Translation: "Satan is coming to attack me"
Jhn 15:5
He who remains in me and I in him
Here Jesus implies that his followers are joined to him as he is joined to God. Alternate Translation: "He who stays joined to me, as I stay joined to my Father"
Jhn 15:7
ask whatever you wish
Jesus implies that believers must ask God to answer their prayers. Alternate Translation: "ask God whatever you wish"
Jhn 15:10
If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, as I have kept the commandments of my Father and remain in his love
When Jesus' followers obey him, they show their love for him. Alternate Translation: "When you do the things I have told you to do, you are living in my love, just as I obey my Father and live in his love"
Jhn 15:16
You did not choose me
Jesus implies that his followers did not decide on their own to become his disciples. Alternate Translation: "You did not decide to become my disciples"
Jhn 15:22
If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin
Jesus implies here that he has shared God's message with those who do not trust him. Alternate Translation: "Because I have come and told them God's message, they have no excuse when God judges them for their sins"
Jhn 15:26
the Spirit of truth
This is a title for the Holy Spirit. Alternate Translation: "the Spirit who tells the truth about God and me"
Jhn 15:27
You are also testifying
Here "testifying" means to tell others about Jesus. Alternate Translation: "You also must tell everyone what you know about me"
Jhn 16:1
you will not fall away
Here the phrase "fall away" implies to stop putting one's trust in Jesus. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "you will not stop trusting in me because of the difficulties you must face"
Jhn 16:13
he will guide you into all the truth
The "truth" refers to spiritual truth. Alternate Translation: "he will teach you all the spiritual truth you need to know"
Jhn 16:13
he will say whatever he hears
Jesus implies that God the Father will speak to the Spirit. Alternate Translation: "he will say whatever God tells him to say"
Jhn 16:14
he will take from what is mine and he will tell it to you
Here "things of mine" refers to Jesus' teaching and mighty works. Alternate Translation: "he will reveal to you that what I have said and done are indeed true"
Jhn 16:15
the Spirit will take from what is mine and he will tell it to you
The Holy Spirit will tell people that the words and works of Jesus are true. Alternate Translation: "The Holy Spirit will tell everyone that my words and works are true"
Jhn 16:33
so that you will have peace in me
Here "peace" refers to inner peace. Alternate Translation: "so that you may have inner peace because of your relationship with me"
Jhn 17:5
Father, glorify me ... with the glory that I had with you before the world was made
Jesus had glory with God the Father "before the world was made" because Jesus is God the Son. Alternate Translation: "Father, give me honor by bringing me into your presence as we were before we made the world"
Jhn 17:12
the son of destruction
This refers to Judas, who betrayed Jesus. Alternate Translation: "the one whom you long ago decided you would destroy"
Jhn 17:15
keep them from the evil one
This refers to Satan. Alternate Translation: "protect them from Satan, the evil one"
Jhn 17:17
Set them apart by the truth
The purpose for setting them apart can be stated clearly. The phrase "by the truth" here represents by teaching the truth. Alternate Translation: "Make them your own people by teaching them the truth"
Jhn 17:24
where I am
Here "where I am" refers to heaven. Alternate Translation: "with me in heaven"
Jhn 17:24
before the creation of the world
Here Jesus refers to the time before creation. Alternate Translation: "before we created the world"
Jhn 18:1
where there was a garden
This was a grove of olive trees. Alternate Translation: "where there was a grove of olive trees"
Jhn 18:5
I am
The word "he" is implied in the text. Alternate Translation: "I am he"
Jhn 18:6
I am
Here the word "he" is not present in the original text, but it is implied. Alternate Translation: "I am he"
Jhn 18:6
fell to the ground
The men fell to the ground because of Jesus' power. Alternate Translation: "fell down because of Jesus' power"
Jhn 18:8
I am
Here the word "he" is not present in the original text, but it is implied. Alternate Translation: "I am he"
Jhn 18:9
This was in order to fulfill the word that he said
Here "the word" refers to the words Jesus had prayed. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "This happened in order to fulfill the words that he had said when he was praying to his Father"
Jhn 18:12
seized Jesus and tied him up
The soldiers tied Jesus' hands to prevent him from escaping. Alternate Translation: "captured Jesus and tied him up to prevent him from escaping"
Jhn 18:18
Now the servants and the officers were standing there, and they had made a charcoal fire, for it was cold, and they were warming themselves
These were the high priest's servants and the temple guards. Alternate Translation: "It was cold, so the high priest's servants and temple guards made a charcoal fire and were standing and warming themselves around it"
Jhn 18:19
about his disciples and his teaching
Here "his teaching" refers to what Jesus had been teaching the people. Alternate Translation: "about his disciples and what he had been teaching the people"
Jhn 18:20
I have spoken openly to the world
You may need to make explicit that the word "world" is a metonym for those people who had heard Jesus teach. Here the exaggeration "the world" emphasizes that Jesus has spoken openly.
Jhn 18:27
Peter then denied again
Here it is implied that Peter denied knowing and being with Jesus. Alternate Translation: "Peter then denied again that he knew Jesus or that he had been with him"
Jhn 18:27
immediately the rooster crowed
Here it is assumed the reader will remember that Jesus had said Peter would deny him before the rooster crowed. Alternate Translation: "immediately the rooster crowed, just as Jesus had said would happen"
Jhn 18:28
Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas
Here it is implied that they are leading Jesus from Caiaphas' house. Alternate Translation: "Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas' house"
Jhn 18:28
they did not enter the government headquarters so that they would not be defiled
Pilate was not a Jew, so if the Jewish leaders entered his headquarters, they would be defiled. This would have prevented them from celebrating the Passover. You can translate the double negative in a positive form. Alternate Translation: "they themselves remained outside Pilate's headquarters because Pilate was a Gentile. They did not want to become defiled"
Jhn 18:31
It is not lawful for us to put any man to death
According to Roman law, the Jews could not put a man to death. Alternate Translation: "According to Roman law, we cannot put a person to death"
Jhn 18:37
bear witness to the truth
Here "the truth" refers to the truth about God. Alternate Translation: "tell people the truth about God"
Jhn 19:4
I find no guilt in him
Pilate states this twice to say he does not believe Jesus is not guilty of any crime. He does not want to punish him. Alternate Translation: "I see no reason to punish him"
Jhn 19:12
At this answer
Here "this answer" refers to Jesus' answer. Alternate Translation: "When Pilate heard Jesus' answer"
Jhn 19:12
Pilate tried to release him
The form of "tried" in the original indicates that Pilate tried "hard" or "repeatedly" to release Jesus. Alternate Translation: "he tried hard to release Jesus" or "he tried again and again to release Jesus"
Jhn 19:16
Then Pilate gave Jesus over to them to be crucified
Here Pilate gives the order for his soldiers to crucify Jesus. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "So Pilate ordered his soldiers to crucify Jesus"
Jhn 19:21
Then the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate
The chief priests had to go back to Pilate's headquarters to protest to him about the words on the sign. Alternate Translation: "The chief priests went back to Pilate and said"
Jhn 19:22
What I have written I have written
Pilate implies that he will not change the words on the sign. Alternate Translation: "I have written what I wanted to write, and I will not change it"
Jhn 19:23
also the tunic
and they also took his tunic. The soldiers kept the tunic separate and did not divide it. Alternate Translation: "they kept his tunic separate"
Jhn 19:24
let us cast lots for it to decide whose it will be
The soldiers will gamble and the winner will receive the shirt. Alternate Translation: "let us gamble for the tunic and the winner will get to keep it"
Jhn 19:30
He bowed his head and gave up his spirit
John implies here that Jesus gave his spirit back to God. Alternate Translation: "He bowed his head and gave God his spirit" or "He bowed his head and died"
Jhn 19:35
has testified, and his testimony is true
To "testify" means to tell about something that one has seen. Alternate Translation: "has told the truth about what he has seen"
Jhn 19:35
so that you would also believe
Here "believe" means to put one's trust in Jesus. Alternate Translation: "so that you will also put your trust in Jesus"
Jhn 19:38
if he could take away the body of Jesus
John implies that Joseph of Arimathea wants to bury the body of Jesus. Alternate Translation: "for permission to take the body of Jesus down from the cross for burial"
Jhn 19:42
Because it was the day of preparation for the Jews
According to Jewish law, no one could work after sundown on Friday. It was the beginning of the Sabbath and Passover. Alternate Translation: "The Passover was about to begin that evening"
Jhn 20:2
They took away the Lord out from the tomb
Mary Magdalene thinks that someone has stolen the Lord's body. Alternate Translation: "Someone has taken the Lord's body out of the tomb"
Jhn 20:3
went out
John implies that these disciples were going to the tomb. Alternate Translation: "rushed out to the tomb"
Jhn 20:8
he saw and believed
When he saw that the tomb was empty, he believed that Jesus had risen from the dead. Alternate Translation: "he saw these things and began to believe that Jesus had risen from the dead"
Jhn 20:9
they still did not know the scripture
Here the word "they" refers to the disciples who did not understand the scripture that said Jesus would rise again. Alternate Translation: "the disciples still did not understand the scripture"
Jhn 20:10
went back home again
The disciples continued to stay in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "went back to where they were staying in Jerusalem"
Jhn 20:12
She saw two angels in white
The angels were wearing white clothing. Alternate Translation: "She saw two angels dressed in white clothing"
Jhn 20:15
Sir, if you have taken him away
Here the word "him" refers to Jesus. Alternate Translation: "If you have taken away the body of Jesus"
Jhn 20:15
I will take him away
Mary Magdalene wants to get Jesus' body and bury it again. Alternate Translation: "I will get the body and bury it again"
Jhn 20:17
I will go up to my Father and your Father, and my God and your God
Jesus rose from the dead and then predicted he would go up into heaven, back to his Father, who is God. Alternate Translation: "I am about to return to heaven to be with my Father and your Father, to the one who is my God and your God"
Jhn 20:18
Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples
Mary Magdalene went to where the disciples were staying and told them what she had seen and heard. Alternate Translation: "Mary Magdalene went to where the disciples were and told them"
Jhn 20:19
for fear of the Jews
Here "Jews" is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders who might arrest the disciples. Alternate Translation: "because they were afraid that the Jewish leaders might arrest them"
Jhn 20:20
he showed them his hands and his side
Jesus showed the disciples his wounds. Alternate Translation: "he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side"
Jhn 20:27
believe
Here "believe" means to trust in Jesus. Alternate Translation: "put your trust in me"
Jhn 20:29
you have believed
Thomas believes that Jesus is alive because he has seen him. Alternate Translation: "you have believed that I am alive"
Jhn 20:29
who have not seen
This means those who have not seen Jesus. Alternate Translation: "who have not seen me alive"
Jhn 21:6
you will find some
Here "some" refers to fish. Alternate Translation: "you will catch some fish in your net"
Jhn 21:7
threw himself into the sea
Peter jumped into the water and swam to shore. Alternate Translation: "jumped into the sea and swam to shore"
Jhn 21:11
Simon Peter then went up
Here "went up" means Simon Peter had to go back to the boat. Alternate Translation: "So Simon Peter went back to the boat"
Jhn 21:19
to indicate with what kind of death Peter would glorify God
Here John implies that Peter would die on a cross. Alternate Translation: "to indicate that Peter would die on a cross to honor God"
Jhn 21:19
Follow me
Here the word "follow" means "to be a disciple." Alternate Translation: "Keep on being my disciple"
Jhn 21:21
Lord, what will this man do?
Peter wants to know what will happen to John. Alternate Translation: "Lord, what will happen to this man?"
Jhn 21:24
who testifies about these things
Here "testifies" means that he personally sees something. Alternate Translation: "who has seen all these things"
Jhn 21:24
we know
Here "we" refers to those who trust in Jesus. Alternate Translation: "we who trust in Jesus know"
Act 1:9
as they were looking up
as they watched. The apostles "were looking up" at Jesus because Jesus rose into the sky. Alternate Translation: "as they were looking up at the sky"
Act 1:12
a Sabbath day's journey
This refers to the distance which, according to Rabbinical tradition, a person was allowed to walk on a Sabbath day. Alternate Translation: "about one kilometer away"
Act 1:18
the earnings he received for his wickedness
the money that he earned from the evil thing that he did. The words "his wickedness" refer to Judas Iscariot's betraying Jesus to the people who killed him.
Act 1:18
there he fell headfirst, and his body burst open, and all his intestines poured out
This suggests that Judas fell from a high place, rather than just falling down. The fall was severe enough to cause his body to burst open. Other passages of scripture mention that he hanged himself.
Act 1:23
They put forward two men
Here the word "They" refers to all of the believers who were present. Alternate Translation: "They proposed two men who fulfilled the requirements that Peter listed"
Act 1:24
They prayed and said
Here the word "They" refers to all of the believers, but it was probably one of the apostles who spoke these words. Alternate Translation: "The believers prayed together and one of the apostles said"
Act 2:15
it is only the third hour of the day
It is only nine o'clock in the morning. Peter expected his audience to know that people do not get drunk that early in the day.
Act 2:27
to see decay
Here the word "see" means to experience something. The word "decay" refers to the decomposition of his body after death. Alternate Translation: "to decay"
Act 2:31
nor did his flesh see decay
Here the word "see" means to experience something. The word "decay" refers to the decomposition of his body after death. See how you translated this in [Acts 2:27](./27.md). Alternate Translation: "nor did his flesh decay" or "nor did he remain dead long enough for his flesh to decay"
Act 2:40
Save yourselves from this wicked generation
The implication is that God will punish "this wicked generation." Alternate Translation: "Save yourselves from the punishment that these wicked people will suffer"
Act 3:6
what I do have
It is understood that Peter has the ability to heal the man.
Act 4:2
They were deeply troubled
They were very angry. The Sadducees, in particular, would have been angry about what Peter and John were saying because they did not believe in resurrection.
Act 4:13
the boldness of Peter and John
Here the abstract noun "boldness" refers to the way in which Peter and John responded to the Jewish leaders, and can be translated with an adverb or an adjective. Alternate Translation: "how boldly Peter and John had spoken" or "how bold Peter and John were"
Act 4:13
realized that they were ordinary, uneducated men
The Jewish leaders "realized" this because of the way Peter and John spoke.
Act 4:17
in order that it spreads no further
Here the word "it" refers to any miracles or teaching Peter and John might continue to do. Alternate Translation: "in order that news of this miracle spreads no further" or "in order that no more people hear about this miracle"
Act 4:23
came to their own people
The phrase "their own people" refers to the rest of the believers. Alternate Translation: "went to the other believers"
Act 4:25
the peoples imagine useless things
These "useless things" consist of plans to oppose God. Alternate Translation: "the peoples imagine useless things against God"
Act 5:3
to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back part of the price
This implies that Ananias had told the apostles that he was giving the entire amount that he had received from selling his land.
Act 5:15
his shadow might fall on some of them
It is implied that God would heal them if Peter's shadow touched them.
Act 5:20
in the temple ... into the temple
They did not go into the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate Translation: "in the temple courtyard ... into the temple courtyard"
Act 5:21
in the temple ... into the temple
They did not go into the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate Translation: "in the temple courtyard ... into the temple courtyard"
Act 5:23
we found no one inside
The words "no one" refer to the apostles. This implies that there was no one else in the jail cell besides the apostles. Alternate Translation: "we did not find them inside"
Act 5:25
standing in the temple
They did not go into the part of the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate Translation: "standing in the temple courtyard"
Act 5:38
keep away from these men and let them alone
Gamaliel is telling the Jewish leaders no to punish the apostles any more or to put them back in jail.
Act 5:42
in the temple and from house to house
They did not go into the temple building where only the priests went. Alternate Translation: "in the temple courtyard and in different people's houses"
Act 6:5
Stephen ... and Nicolaus
These are Greek names, and suggest that all of the men elected were from the Grecian Jewish group of believers.
Act 6:8
Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing
The words "grace" and "power" here refer to power from God. This could be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "God was giving Stephen power to do"
Act 6:11
some men to say
They were given money to give false testimony. Alternate Translation: "some men to lie and say"
Act 7:8
gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision
The Jews would have understood that this covenant required Abraham to circumcise the males of his family. Alternate Translation: "made a covenant with Abraham to circumcise the males of his family"
Act 7:9
sold him into Egypt
The Jews knew their ancestors sold Joseph to be a slave in Egypt. Alternate Translation: "sold him as a slave in Egypt"
Act 7:11
our fathers ... his brothers
Both of these phrases refer to Joseph's older brothers. The UDB makes this explicit.
Act 7:13
our fathers ... his brothers
Both of these phrases refer to Joseph's older brothers. The UDB makes this explicit.
Act 7:23
visit his brothers, the children of Israel
This refers to his people, and not just to his family. Alternate Translation: "see how his own people, the children of Israel, were doing"
Act 7:26
some Israelites
The audience would have known from the account in Exodus that these were two men, but Stephen does not specify that.
Act 7:29
General Information:
Stephen's audience already knew that Moses had married a Midianite woman when he fled Egypt.
Act 7:29
after hearing this
The implied information is that Moses understood that the Israelites knew that he had killed an Egyptian the day before ([Acts 7:28](./28.md)).
Act 7:30
When forty years were past
After 40 years passed. This was the amount of time Moses had been in Midian. Alternate Translation: "Forty years after Moses fled from Egypt"
Act 7:30
an angel appeared
Stephen's audience knew that God spoke through the angel. The UDB makes this explicit.
Act 7:31
he marveled at the sight
Moses was surprised that the bush was not burning up in the fire. This was previously known by Stephen's audience. Alternate Translation: "because the bush was not burning up"
Act 7:32
Moses trembled
Moses shook from fear. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "Moses trembled with fear"
Act 7:33
for the place where you are standing is holy ground
The implied information is that where God is present, the immediate area around God is considered or made holy by God.
Act 7:36
during forty years
Stephen's audience knew about the forty years the Israelites spent in the wilderness. Alternate Translation: "during the 40 years that the Israelite people lived in the wilderness"
Act 7:41
they made a calf
Stephen's audience knew the calf they made was a statue. Alternate Translation: "they made a statue that looked like a calf"
Act 7:43
You accepted
It is implied that they took these idols with them as they traveled in the wilderness. Alternate Translation: "you carried with you from place to place"
Act 7:55
saw the glory of God
People normally experienced the glory of God as a bright light. Alternate Translation: "saw a bright light from God"
Act 8:1
except the apostles
This statement implies that the apostles remained in Jerusalem even though they also experienced this great persecution.
Act 8:3
men and women
This refers to men and women who believed in Jesus.
Act 8:27
He had come to Jerusalem to worship
This implies that he was a Gentile who believed in God and had come to worship at the Jewish temple. Alternate Translation: "He had come to worship God at the temple in Jerusalem"
Act 8:31
He begged Philip to ... sit with him
It is implied here that Philip agreed to travel down the road with him to explain the scriptures.
Act 9:2
he might bring them bound to Jerusalem
he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. Paul's purpose can be made clear by adding "so that the Jewish leaders could judge and punish them"
Act 9:8
when he opened his eyes
This implies that he had closed his eyes because the light was too bright.
Act 9:14
authority ... to arrest everyone here
It is implied that the extent of the power and authority granted Saul was limited to the Jewish people at this point in time.
Act 9:30
sent him away to Tarsus
Caesarea was a seaport. They brothers probably sent Saul to Tarsus by ship.
Act 9:37
It came about in those days
This refers to the time when Peter was in Joppa. This can be stated. Alternate Translation: "It came about while Peter was nearby"
Act 10:4
Your prayers and your gifts ... a memorial offering into God's presence
It is implied that his gifts and prayers had been accepted by God. Alternate Translation: "God is pleased by your prayers and your gifts ... a memorial offering to him"
Act 10:12
all kinds of four-footed animals ... birds of the sky
From Peter's response in the next verse, it can be implied that the law of Moses commanded the Jews not to eat some of them. Alternate Translation: "animals and birds that the Mosaic laws forbade Jews to eat"
Act 10:14
I have never eaten anything that was defiled and unclean
It is implied that some the animals in the container were unclean as defined by the law of Moses and were not to be eaten by believers who lived before Christ died.
Act 10:17
stood before the gate
stood before the gate to the house. It is implied that this house had a wall with a gate in it to enter the property.
Act 10:27
many people gathered together
many Gentile people gathered together. It is implied that these people Cornelius had invited were Gentiles.
Act 10:48
he commanded them to be baptized
It is implied that the Jewish Christians were the ones who would baptize them. Alternate Translation: "Peter commanded the Gentile believers to allow the Jewish Christians to baptize them" or "Peter commanded the Jewish Christians to baptize them"
Act 11:6
four-legged animals of earth
From Peter's response, it can be implied that the law of Moses commanded the Jews not to eat some of them. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Acts 10:12](../10/12.md). Alternate Translation: "animals and birds that the Mosaic laws forbade Jews to eat"
Act 11:20
spoke also to Greeks
These Greek-speaking people were Gentiles, not Jews. Alternate Translation: "also spoke to Gentiles who spoke Greek"
Act 11:28
in the days of Claudius
Luke's audience would know that Claudius was the emperor of Rome at that time. Alternate Translation: "when Claudius was the Roman emperor"
Act 12:1
some who belonged to the church
Only James and Peter are specified, which implies that these were leaders of the church in Jerusalem.
Act 12:6
On the night before Herod was going to bring him out for trial
That Herod planned to execute him can be clarified. Alternate Translation: "The happened on the day before Herod was going to bring Peter out from prison to put him on trial and then to execute him"
Act 12:10
After they had passed by the first guard and the second
It is implied that the soldiers were not able to see Peter and the angel as they walked by. Alternate Translation: "The first and second guards did not see them as they passed by, and then"
Act 12:20
their country received its food from the king's country
They probably purchased this food. Alternate Translation: "the people of Tyre and Sidon bought all their food from the people that Herod ruled"
Act 12:20
received its food
It is implied that Herod restricted this supply of food because he was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon.
Act 12:25
completed their mission
This refers back to when they brought money from the believers at Antioch in [Acts 11:29-30](../11/29.md). Alternate Translation: "delivered the money to the church leaders in Jerusalem"
Act 12:25
they returned from Jerusalem
They went back to Antioch from Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "Barnabas and Saul returned to Antioch"
Act 13:25
I am not the one
John was referring to the Messiah, whom they were expecting to come. Alternate Translation: "I am not the Messiah"
Act 13:25
one is coming after me
This also refers to the Messiah. Alternate Translation: "The Messiah will soon come"
Act 13:29
they took him down from the tree
It may be helpful to explicitly say Jesus died before this happened. Alternate Translation: "they killed Jesus and then took him down from the cross after he died"
Act 13:29
from the tree
from the cross. This was another way people at that time referred to the cross.
Act 13:35
This is why he also says in another Psalm
Paul's audience would have understood that this Psalm refers to the Messiah. Alternate Translation: "In another Psalm of David, he also says about the Messiah"
Act 13:40
be careful
It is implied that the thing they should be careful about is Paul's message. Alternate Translation: "give close attention to the things I have said"
Act 13:43
to continue in the grace of God
It is implied that they believed Paul's message that Jesus was the Messiah. Alternate Translation: "to continue to trust that God kindly forgives people's sins because of what Jesus did"
Act 13:44
to hear the word of the Lord
It is implied that Paul and Barnabas were the ones who spoke the word of the Lord. Alternate Translation: "to hear Paul and Barnabas speak about the Lord Jesus"
Act 13:46
It was necessary
This implies that God had commanded this be done. Alternate Translation: "God commanded"
Act 13:46
we will turn to the Gentiles
we will go to the Gentiles. Paul and Barnadas were implying that they would preach to the Gentiles. Alternate Translation: "we will leave you and start preaching to the Gentiles"
Act 14:1
spoke in such a way
spoke so powerfully. It may be helpful to state that they spoke the message about Jesus. Alternate Translation: "spoke the message about Jesus so powerfully"
Act 14:11
The gods have come down to us
A large number of people believed Paul and Barnabas were their pagan gods who had come down from heaven. Alternate Translation: "The gods have come down from heaven to us"
Act 14:13
The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought
It may be helpful to include additional information about the priest. Alternate Translation: "There was a temple just outside the city where the people worshiped Zeus. When the priest who served in the temple heard what Paul and Barnabas had done, he brought"
Act 14:19
persuaded the crowds
It my be helpful to explicitly state what they persuaded the crowd to do. Alternate Translation: "persuaded the people not to believe Paul and Barnabas, and to turn against them"
Act 15:1
Some men
Some men. You can make explicit that these men were Jews who believed in Christ.
Act 15:1
taught the brothers
Here "brothers" stands for believers in Christ. It is implied that they were in Antioch. Alternate Translation: "taught the believers at Antioch" or "were teaching the believers at Antioch"
Act 15:19
we should not trouble those of the Gentiles
You can make explicit in what way James does not want to trouble the Gentiles. Alternate Translation: "we should not require the Gentiles to become circumcised and obey the laws of Moses"
Act 15:20
pollution of idols
This possibly refers to eating the meat of an animal that someone has sacrificed to an idol or to anything to do with idol worship.
Act 15:20
from the meat of strangled animals, and from blood
God did not allow Jews to eat meat that still had the blood in it. Also, even earlier in Moses' writings in Genesis, God had forbidden the drinking of blood. Therefore, they could not eat an animal that someone strangled because the blood was not properly drained from the body of the animal.
Act 15:21
Moses has been proclaimed in every city ... and he is read in the synagogues every Sabbath
James is implying that Gentiles know how important these rules are because Jews preach them in every city where there is a synagogue. It also implies the Gentiles can go to the teachers from the synagogues to learn more about these rules.
Act 15:22
the whole church
Here "church" refers to the people who are a part of the church in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "the church in Jerusalem" or "the whole community of believers in Jerusalem"
Act 15:27
who will tell you the same thing themselves in their own words
This phrase emphasizes that Judas and Silas will say the same things that the apostles and elders had written. Alternate Translation: "who themselves will tell you the same things about which we have written"
Act 15:29
blood
This refers to drinking blood or eating meat from which the blood has not been drained.
Act 15:41
he went
The previous sentence implies that Silas was with Paul. Alternate Translation: "they went" or "Paul and Silas went" or "Paul took Silas and went"
Act 16:3
for they all knew that his father was a Greek
Since Greek men did not have their sons circumcised, the Jews would have known Timothy was not circumcised, and they would have rejected Paul and Timothy before hearing their message about Christ.
Act 16:12
a Roman colony
This is a city outside of Italy where many people who came from Rome lived. The people there had the same rights and freedoms as people who lived in cities in Italy. They could govern themselves and they did not have to pay taxes.
Act 16:19
When her masters saw that their opportunity to make money was now gone
It can be stated clearly why they no longer hoped to make money. Alternate Translation: "When her masters saw that she could no longer earn money for them by telling fortunes"
Act 16:29
called for lights
The reason why the jailer needed light can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "called for someone to bring light so he could see who was still in the prison"
Act 16:37
said to them
Probably Paul is speaking to the jailer, but he intends for the jailer to tell the magistrates what he says. Alternate Translation: "said to the jailer"
Act 16:38
when they heard that Paul and Silas were Romans, they were afraid
To be a Roman meant to be a legal citizens of the Empire. Citizenship provided freedom from torture and the right to a fair trial. The city leaders were afraid that more important Roman authorities might learn how the city leaders had mistreated Paul and Silas.
Act 17:2
reasoned with them from the scriptures
Paul explained what the scriptures means in order to prove to the Jews that Jesus is the Messiah.
Act 17:5
with jealousy
It can be stated explicitly that these Jews were jealous because some of the Jews and Greeks believed Paul's message.
Act 18:9
do not be silent
It can be stated explicitly what the Lord wants Paul to speak. Alternate Translation: "do not stop speaking about the gospel"
Act 19:22
But he himself stayed in Asia for a while
It is made explicit in the next few verses that Paul remains in Ephesus.
Act 19:33
motioned with his hand
You can make explicit that Alexander was showing the crowd that he wanted them to be quiet. Alternate Translation: "gestured to the crowd to be quiet"
Act 21:21
They have been told about you ... not to follow the old customs
Apparently here there are some Jews that are distorting what Paul is teaching. He does not discourage the Jews from obeying the Law of Moses. His message is that circumcision and the other customs are not necessary for Jesus to save them. You can make explicit that the leaders of the Jewish believers in Jerusalem knew that Paul was teaching God's true message.
Act 21:24
Take these men and purify yourself with them
They had to make themselves ritually pure so they could worship in the temple.
Act 21:24
pay their expenses for them
pay for what they will need. The expenses would go toward buying a male and female lamb, a ram, and grain and drink offerings.
Act 21:25
they should keep themselves from things sacrificed to idols, from blood, from what is strangled
All of these are rules about what they can eat. They are forbidden to eat meat of animals sacrificed to an idol, meat with blood still in it, and meat from a strangled animal because it would still have blood in the meat. See how you translated similar phrases in [Acts 15:20](../15/20.md).
Act 21:25
from what is strangled
This can be stated in active form. You can also state explicitly the assumed information about strangled animals. Alternate Translation: "from animals that a person has strangled" or "from animals that a person killed for food but did not drain its blood"
Act 21:28
Besides, he has also brought Greeks into the temple
Only Jewish males were allowed in certain areas of the courtyard of the Jerusalem temple.
Act 21:30
the doors were immediately shut
They shut the doors so that there would not be rioting in the temple area. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "Some of the Jews immediately shut the temple doors" or "The temple guards immediately shut the doors"
Act 21:38
Are you not then the Egyptian
Shortly before Paul's visit, an unnamed man from Egypt had launched a revolt against Rome in Jerusalem. Later he escaped into the wilderness and the commander wonders if Paul might be the same man.
Act 21:40
motioned with the hand to the people
It can be stated explicitly why Paul motioned with the hand. Alternate Translation: "motioned with his hand for the people to be quiet"
Act 23:5
For it is written
Paul is about to quote what Moses wrote in the law. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "For Moses wrote in the law"
Act 24:5
He is a leader of the Nazarene sect
The phrase "Nazarene sect" is another name for the Christians. Alternate Translation: "He also leads the entire group whom people call the followers of the Nazarene"
Act 24:18
not with a crowd or an uproar
This can be stated as a separate new sentence. Alternate Translation: "I had not gathered a crowd nor was I trying to start a riot"
Act 24:24
a Jewess
This means a female Jew. Alternate Translation: "who was a Jew"
Act 26:3
questions
You can make explicit what kinds of questions this means. Alternate Translation: "questions about religious matters"
Act 26:23
that Christ must suffer
You can make explicit that Christ must also die. Alternate Translation: "that Christ must suffer and die"
Act 27:5
we landed at Myra, a city of Lycia
You can make explicit that they got off of the ship in Myra. Alternate Translation: "came to Myra, a city of Lycia, where we got off the ship"
Act 27:6
found a ship from Alexandria that was going to sail to Italy
It is implied that a crew would sail the ship to Italy. Alternate Translation: "found a ship that a crew had sailed from Alexandria and was about to sail to Italy"
Act 27:7
When we had sailed slowly ... finally arrived with difficulty
You can make explicit that the reason they were sailing slowly and with difficulty was because the wind was blowing against them.
Act 27:8
We sailed along the coast with difficulty
You can make explicit that even though the winds were not as strong as before, they were still strong enough to make sailing difficult.
Act 27:21
When they had gone long without food
Here "they" refers to the sailors. It is implied that Luke, Paul, and those with them had not eaten either. Alternate Translation: "When we had gone a long time without food"
Act 27:22
there will be no loss of life among you
Paul is speaking to the sailors. It is implied that Paul also means that he and those with him will not die either. Alternate Translation: "none of us will die"
Act 28:4
yet justice
The word "justice" refers to the name of a god that they worshiped. Alternate Translation: "the god called Justice"
Act 28:11
General Information:
The Twin Brothers refers to Castor and Pollux, the twin sons of Zeus, a Greek god. They were thought to be protectors of ships.
Rom 1:1
Paul
Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter. You may also need to tell in this same verse who the people are to whom Paul wrote the letter ([Romans 1:7](./07.md)). Alternate Translation: "I, Paul, wrote this letter"
Rom 1:3
who was a descendant of David according to the flesh
Here the word "flesh" refers to the physical body. Alternate Translation: "who is a descendant of David according to the physical nature" or "who was born into the family of David"
Rom 1:11
some spiritual gift, in order to strengthen you
Paul wants to strengthen the Roman Christians spiritually. Alternate Translation: "some gift that will help you to grow spiritually"
Rom 1:16
it is the power of God for salvation for everyone who believes
Here "believes" means that one puts his trust in Christ. Alternate Translation: "it is through the gospel that God powerfully saves those who put their trust in Christ"
Rom 1:17
The righteous will live by faith
Here "righteous" refers to those who trust in God. Alternate Translation: "It is people who trust in God that he considers right with him, and they will live forever"
Rom 1:18
hold back the truth
Here "truth" refers to true information about God. Alternate Translation: "hide the true information about God"
Rom 1:19
For God has enlightened them
Here "enlightened them" means God has shown them the truth about him. Alternate Translation: "Because God has shown everyone what he is like"
Rom 1:25
who worshiped and served the creation
Here "creation" refers to what God created. Alternate Translation: "They worshiped things that God created"
Rom 1:28
he gave them up to a depraved mind
Here "a depraved mind" means a mind that thinks only about immoral things. Alternate Translation: "God allowed their minds, which they had filled with worthless and immoral thoughts, to completely control them"
Rom 1:32
that those who practice such things
Here "practice" refers to continually or habitually doing things that are evil. Alternate Translation: "and that those who keep on doing wicked things"
Rom 1:32
who do them
Here the verb "do" refers to continuing to do things that are evil. Alternate Translation: "who keep on doing evil things"
Rom 2:1
Therefore you are without excuse
The word "therefore" marks a new section of the letter. It also makes a concluding statement based on what Paul said in [Romans 1:1-32](../01/32.md). Alternate Translation: "Since God will punish those who continually sin, he will certainly not excuse your sins"
Rom 2:1
you person, you who judge
Paul uses the word "person" here to scold anyone who might think he can act like God and judge others. Alternate Translation: "You are just a human being, yet you judge others and say they deserve God's punishment"
Rom 2:12
without the law will also perish without the law
Paul repeats "without the law" to emphasize that it does not matter if people do not know the law of Moses. If they sin, God will judge them. Alternate Translation: "without knowing the law of Moses will certainly still die spiritually"
Rom 2:12
with respect to the law will be judged by the law
God will judge sinful people according to his law. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "and who do know the law of Moses, God will judge them according to that law"
Rom 2:13
it is not the hearers of the law
Here "the law" refers to the law of Moses. Alternate Translation: "it is not those who only hear the law of Moses"
Rom 2:14
they do not have the law
Here "the law" refers to the law of Moses." Alternate Translation: "they do not actually have the laws that God gave to Moses"
Rom 2:20
and that you have in the law the form of knowledge and of the truth
The knowledge of the truth that is in the law comes from God. Alternate Translation: "because you are sure you understand the truth that God has given in the law"
Rom 3:1
Then what advantage does the Jew have? And what is the benefit of circumcision?
Paul presents ideas that people might have after they hear what he wrote in chapter 2. He does this in order to respond to them in verse 2. Alternate Translation: "Some people might say, 'Then what advantage does the Jew have? And what is the benefit of circumcision?'" or "Some people might say, 'If that is true, then the Jews do not have any advantage, and there is no benefit in being circumcised.'"
Rom 3:2
It is great in every way
Paul now responds to the concerns brought up in verse 1. Here "It" refers to being a member of the Jewish people. Alternate Translation: "But there is great advantage to being a Jew"
Rom 3:2
the Jews were entrusted with revelation from God
Here "revelation" refers to God's words and promises. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "God gave his words that contain his promises to the Jews"
Rom 3:4
let God be found to be true
God will always be true and will keep his promises. Alternate Translation: "God always does what he has promised"
Rom 3:11
There is no one who understands
There is no one who understands what is right. Alternate Translation: "No one really understands what is right"
Rom 3:11
There is no one who seeks after God
Here the phrase "seeks after God" means to have a relationship with God. Alternate Translation: "No one sincerely tries to have a right relationship with God"
Rom 3:12
They together have become useless
Since no one does what is good, they are useless to God. Alternate Translation: "Everyone has become useless to God"
Rom 3:22
the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ
Here "righteousness" means being right with God. Alternate Translation: "being right with God through trusting Jesus Christ"
Rom 3:22
For there is no distinction
Paul implies that God accepts all people in the same way. Alternate Translation: "There is no difference at all between the Jews and the Gentiles"
Rom 3:24
they are freely justified by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus
Here "justified" refers to being made right with God. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "God makes them right with himself as a free gift, because Christ Jesus sets them free"
Rom 4:11
a seal of the righteousness of the faith that he had already possessed when he was in uncircumcision
Here "righteousness of the faith" means that God considered him to be righteous. Alternate Translation: "a visible sign that God considered him righteous because he had believed in God before he was circumcised"
Rom 4:14
if those who live by the law are to be the heirs
Here "live by the law" refers to obeying the law. Alternate Translation: "if those who obey the law are the ones who will inherit the earth"
Rom 4:17
as it is written
Where it is written can be made explicit. You can also translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "as someone has written in the Scriptures"
Rom 4:17
Abraham was in the presence of him whom he trusted, that is, God, who gives life to the dead
Here "of him whom he trusted" refers to God. Alternate Translation: "Abraham was in the presence of God whom he trusted, who gives life to those who have died"
Rom 4:18
In hope he believed against hope
This idiom means that Abraham trusted God even though it did not seem that he could have a son. Alternate Translation: "Even though it seemed impossible for him to have descendants, he believe God"
Rom 4:18
So will your descendants be
The full promise God gave to Abraham can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "You will have more descendants than you can count"
Rom 5:9
Much more, then, now that we are justified by his blood
Here "justified" means that God puts us in a right relationship with himself. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "How much more will God do for us now that he has made us right with himself because of the death of Jesus on the cross"
Rom 5:13
For until the law, sin was in the world
This means that the people sinned before God gave the law. Alternate Translation: "People in the world sinned before God gave his law to Moses"
Rom 5:13
but there is no accounting for sin when there is no law
This means that God did not charge the people with sinning before he gave the law. Alternate Translation: "but God recorded no sin against the law before he gave the law"
Rom 5:15
For if by the trespass of one the many died
Here "one" refers to Adam. Alternate Translation: "For if by one man's sin, many died"
Rom 5:15
how much more did the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, abound for the many
Here "grace" refers to God's free gift that he made available to everyone through Jesus Christ. Alternate Translation: "even more through the man Jesus Christ, who died for us all, did God kindly offer us this gift of everlasting life, although we do not deserve it"
Rom 5:16
For the gift is not like the outcome of that one man's sin
Here "the gift" refers to God's freely erasing the record of our sins. Alternate Translation: "The gift is not like the result of Adam's sin"
Rom 5:16
The judgment followed one trespass and brought condemnation, but the gift ... justification
Here Paul gives two reasons why "the gift is not like the result of Adam's sin." The "judgment of condemnation" implies that we all deserve God's punishment for our sins. Alternate Translation: "Because on the one hand, God declared that all people deserve to be punished because of the sin of one man, but on the other hand"
Rom 5:16
the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification
This refers to how God makes us right with him even when we do not deserve it. Alternate Translation: "God's kind gift to put us right with himself"
Rom 5:18
condemnation came to all people
Here "condemnation" refers to God's punishment. Alternate Translation: "all people deserve God's punishment for sin"
Rom 5:18
justification and life for all people
Here "justification" refers to God's ability to make people right with him. Alternate Translation: "God's offer to make all people right with him"
Rom 5:20
grace abounded even more
Here "grace" refers to God's undeserved blessings. Alternate Translation: "God continued to act even more kindly toward them, in a way that they did not deserve"
Rom 6:7
He who has died is declared righteous with respect to sin
Here "righteous" refers to God's ability to make people right with him. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "When God declares a person right with him, that person is no longer controlled by sin"
Rom 6:8
we have died with Christ
Here "died" refers to the fact that believers are no longer controlled by sin.
Rom 6:13
But present yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life
Here "now living" refers to the believer's new spiritual life. Alternate Translation: "But offer yourselves to God, because he has given you new spiritual life" or "But offer yourselves to God, as those who had died and are now alive"
Rom 6:14
For you are not under law
To be "under law" means to be subject to its limitations and weaknesses. You can make the full meaning explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "For you are no longer bound to the law of Moses, which could not give you the power to stop sinning"
Rom 6:14
but under grace
To be "under grace" means that God's free gift provides the power to keep from sinning. You can make the full meaning explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "but you are bound to God's grace, which does give you the power to stop sinning"
Rom 7:6
the letter
This refers to the law of Moses. Alternate Translation: "the law of Moses"
Rom 8:1
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus
Here "condemnation" refers to punishing people. Alternate Translation: "God will not condemn and punish those who are joined to Christ Jesus"
Rom 8:2
the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus
This refers to God's Spirit. Alternate Translation: "God's Spirit in Christ Jesus"
Rom 8:10
If Christ is in you
How Christ lives in a person could be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "If Christ lives in you through the Holy Spirit"
Rom 8:23
waiting for our adoption, the redemption of our body
Here "our adoption" means when we become full members of God's family, as adopted children. The word "redemption" means when God saves us. Alternate Translation: "waiting for when we are fully members of God's family and he saves our bodies from decay and death"
Rom 8:29
among many brothers
Here "brothers" refers to all believers, both male and female. Alternate Translation: "among many brothers and sisters who belong to the family of God"
Rom 8:30
these he also justified
Here "justified" is in the past tense to emphasize that this will certainly happen. Alternate Translation: "these he also put right with himself"
Rom 8:30
these he also glorified
The word "glorified" is in the past tense to emphasize that this will certainly happen. Alternate Translation: "these he will also glorify"
Rom 8:37
through the one who loved us
You can make explicit the kind of love that Jesus showed. Alternate Translation: "because of Jesus, who loved us so much he was willing to die for us"
Rom 9:23
which he had previously prepared for glory
Here "glory" refers to life in heaven with God. Alternate Translation: "whom he prepared ahead of time in order that they might live with him"
Rom 9:25
As he says also in Hosea
Here "he" refers to God. Alternate Translation: "As God says also in the book that Hosea wrote"
Rom 9:29
we would be like Sodom, and we would have become like Gomorrah
God killed all of the people of Sodom and Gomorrah because of their sin. Alternate Translation: "we all would have been destroyed like the people of Sodom and Gomorrah" or "God would have destroyed all of us, like he destroyed the cities of Sodom and Gommorah"
Rom 9:30
the righteousness by faith
Here "by faith" refers to placing one's trust in Christ. You can make this explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "because God made them right with him when they trusted in Christ"
Rom 9:31
did not arrive at it
This means that the Israelites could not please God by trying to keep the law. You can make this explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "were not able to please God by keeping the law because they could not keep it"
Rom 9:32
by works
This refers to things that people do to try to please God. You can make this explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "by trying to do things that would please God" or "by keeping the Law"
Rom 9:33
as it has been written
You can indicate that Isaiah wrote this. You can also translate it in an active form. Alternate Translation: "as Isaiah the prophet wrote"
Rom 10:3
For they do not know of God's righteousness
Here "righteousness refers to the way God puts people right with himself. You can make this explicit in the translation. Alternate Translation: "For they do not know how God puts people right with himself"
Rom 10:4
for righteousness for everyone who believes
Here "believes" means "trusts." Alternate Translation: "in order that he may make everyone who trusts in him right before God"
Rom 10:5
The man who does the righteousness of the law will live by this righteousness
In order to be made right with God through the law, a person would have to keep the law perfectly, which is not possible. Alternate Translation: "The person who perfectly obeys the law will live because the law will make him right before God"
Rom 10:12
For there is no difference between Jew and Greek
Paul implies that God will treat all people the same. You can make this explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "In this way, God treats the Jews and the non-Jews the same"
Rom 10:12
he is rich to all who call upon him
Here "he is rich" means that God blesses richly. You can make this explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "he richly blesses all who trust in him"
Rom 10:19
By means of a nation without understanding
Here "without understanding" means that the people do not know God. Alternate Translation: "By a nation with people who do not know me or my commands"
Rom 11:6
But if it is by grace
Paul continues to explain how God's mercy works. Alternate Translation: "But since God's mercy works by grace"
Rom 11:14
Perhaps we will save some of them
God will save those who believe. Alternate Translation: "Perhaps some will believe and God will save them"
Rom 11:25
in order that you will not be wise in your own thinking
Paul does not want the Gentile believers to think they are wiser than the Jewish unbelievers. Alternate Translation: "so that you will not think you are wiser than you are"
Rom 11:28
As far as the gospel is concerned
You can make explicit why Paul mentions the gospel. Alternate Translation: "Because the Jews rejected the gospel"
Rom 11:28
they are enemies for your sake
You can make explicit whose enemies they are, and how this was for the Gentiles' sake. Alternate Translation: "they are God's enemies for your sake" or "God has treated them as enemies in order that you also might hear the gospel"
Rom 11:28
as far as election is concerned
You can make explicit why Paul mentions election. Alternate Translation: "because God has elected the Jews" or "because God has chosen the Jews"
Rom 11:28
they are beloved because of their forefathers
You can make explicit who loves the Jews and why Paul mentions their forefathers. You can also translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "God still loves them because of what he promised to do for their ancestors"
Rom 11:30
you have received mercy because of their disobedience
Here mercy means God's undeserved blessings. Alternate Translation: "because the Jews have rejected Jesus, you have received blessings that you did not deserve"
Rom 11:36
To him be the glory forever
This expresses Paul's desire for all people to honor God. You can make this explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "May all people honor him forever"
Rom 12:1
I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God
Here "brothers" refers to fellow believers, both male and female. Alternate Translation: "Fellow believers, because of the great mercy that God has given you I very much want you"
Rom 12:3
because of the grace that was given to me
Here "grace" refers to God's choosing Paul to be an apostle and leader of the church. You can make this explicit in your translation. You can also translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "because God freely chose me to be an apostle"
Rom 12:3
just as God has given out to each one a certain amount of faith
Paul implies here that believers have different abilities that correspond to their faith in God. Alternate Translation: "since God has given each of you different abilities because of your trust in him"
Rom 12:8
If one's gift is giving
Here "giving" refers to giving money and other things to people. You can make this meaning explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "If one has the gift of giving money or other goods to people in need"
Rom 14:5
Let each person be convinced in his own mind
You can make the full meaning explicit. You can also translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "Let each person be sure what he is doing is to honor the Lord"
Rom 14:6
He who observes the day, observes it for the Lord
Here "observes" refers to worshiping. Alternate Translation: "The person who worships on a certain day does it to honor the Lord"
Rom 14:7
For none of us lives for himself
Here "lives for himself" means to live only to please oneself. Alternate Translation: "None of us should live merely to please ourselves"
Rom 14:7
none dies for himself
This means one's death affects other people. Alternate Translation: "none of us should think that when we die, it affects only us"
Rom 14:11
As I live
This phrase is used to start an oath or solemn promise. Alternate Translation: "You can be certain that this is true"
Rom 14:14
Only for him who considers anything to be unclean, for him it is unclean
Paul implies here that a person should stay away from anything that he thinks is unclean. You can make this explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "But if a person thinks something is unclean, then for that person it is unclean and he should stay away from it"
Rom 14:17
For the kingdom of God is not about food and drink, but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit
Paul argues that God set up his kingdom so he could give us a right relationship with himself, and to provide peace and joy. Alternate Translation: "For God did not set up his kingdom so that he could rule over what we eat and drink. He set up his kingdom so we could have a right relationship with him, and so he could give us peace and joy"
Rom 14:19
let us pursue the things of peace and the things that build up one another
Here "build up one another" refers to helping each other grow in faith. Alternate Translation: "let us seek to live peacefully together and help one another grow stronger in faith"
Rom 14:20
Do not destroy the work of God because of food
You can make explicit the full meaning of this sentence. Alternate Translation: "Do not undo what God has done for a fellow believer just because you want to eat a certain kind of food"
Rom 14:20
but it is evil for that person who eats and causes him to stumble
Here anything that "causes him to stumble" means it causes a weaker brother to do something that is against his conscience. Alternate Translation: "but it would be a sin for someone to eat food, which another brother thinks is wrong to eat, if by eating this causes the weaker brother to do something that is against his conscience"
Rom 14:23
because it is not from faith
Anything that is "not from faith" is something that God does not want you to do. You can make explicit the full meaning here. Alternate Translation: "God will say that he is wrong because he is eating something he believes God does not want him to eat"
Rom 14:23
whatever is not from faith is sin
Anything that is "not from faith" is something that God does not want you to do. You can make explicit the full meaning here. Alternate Translation: "you are sinning if you do something that you do not believe God wants you to do"
Rom 15:1
we who are strong
Here "strong" refers to the people who are strong in their faith. They believe that God allows them to eat any kind of food. Alternate Translation: "we who are strong in faith"
Rom 15:1
the weak
Here "the weak" refers to the people who are weak in their faith. They believe that God does not allow them to eat some kinds of food. Alternate Translation: "those who are weak in faith"
Rom 15:2
to build him up
By this, Paul means to strengthen someone's faith. Alternate Translation: "to strengthen his faith"
Rom 15:3
it was just as it is written
Here Paul refers to a scripture where Christ (the Messiah) speaks to God. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate Translation: "the Messiah said to God in the scriptures"
Rom 15:4
in order that through patience and through encouragement of the scriptures we would have certain hope
Here "have confidence" means that the believers will know that God will fulfill his promises. You can make explicit the full meaning in your translation. Alternate Translation: "In this way the scriptures will encourage us to expect that God will do for us everything that he has promised"
Rom 15:8
the promises given to the fathers
Here "the fathers" refers to the ancestors of the Jewish people. You can translate this in active form. Alternate Translation: "the promises that God gave to the ancestors of the Jews"
Rom 15:10
with his people
This refers to God's people. You can make this explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "with the people of God"
Rom 15:12
in him the Gentiles will have hope
Here "him" refers to the descendant of Jesse, the Messiah. Those who are not Jews will also trust him to fulfill his promises. Alternate Translation: "The people who are not Jews can trust him to do what he has promised"
Rom 15:14
I myself am also convinced about you, my brothers
Paul is quite sure that the believers in Rome are honoring each other in their behavior. Alternate Translation: "I myself am completely sure that you yourselves have acted toward others in a completely good way"
Rom 15:14
also able to exhort one another
Here "exhort" means to teach. Alternate Translation: "also able to teach each other"
Rom 15:20
In this way, my desire has been to proclaim the gospel, but not where Christ is known by name
Paul only wants to preach to people who have never heard of Christ. Alternate Translation: "Because of this, I want to preach the good news in places where people have never heard of Christ"
Rom 15:23
I no longer have any place in these regions
Paul implies that there are no more places in these areas where people live who have not heard about Christ. Alternate Translation: "there are no more places in these regions where people have not heard about Christ"
Rom 15:24
and to be helped by you along my journey
Here Paul implies that he wants the Roman believers to provide some financial assistance to him for his journey to Spain. Alternate Translation: "that you will help me on my journey"
Rom 15:29
I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ
This phrase means that Christ will bless Paul and the Roman believers. Alternate Translation: "And I know that when I visit you, Christ will abundantly bless us"
Rom 15:31
that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the believers
Here Paul expresses his desire that the believers in Jerusalem will gladly accept the money from the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. Alternate Translation: "pray that the believers in Jerusalem will be glad to receive the money that I am bringing them"
Rom 15:33
May the God of peace
The "God of peace" means the God who causes believers to have inner peace. Alternate Translation: "I pray that God who causes all of us to have inner peace"
Rom 16:2
receive her in the Lord
Paul encourages the Roman believers to welcome Phoebe as a fellow believer. Alternate Translation: "welcome her because we all belong to the Lord"
Rom 16:3
my fellow workers in Christ Jesus
Paul's "fellow workers" are people who also tell others about Jesus. Alternate Translation: "who work with me to tell people about Christ Jesus"
Rom 16:11
who are in the Lord
This refers to those who trust in Jesus. Alternate Translation: "who are believers" or "who belong to the Lord"
Rom 16:17
who are causing the divisions and stumbling
This refers to those who argue and cause others to stop trusting in Jesus. Alternate Translation: "who are causing believers to argue with one another and to stop having faith in God"
Rom 16:27
To the only wise God ... be glory forever. Amen
Here "through Jesus Christ" refers to what Jesus did. To give "glory" means to praise God. Alternate Translation: "Because of what Jesus Christ has done for us, we will praise forever the one who alone is God and who alone is wise. Amen"
1Co 3:2
you are not yet ready
It is implied that they are not ready to understand more difficult teachings. Alternate Translation: "you still are not ready to understand the harder teachings about following Christ"
1Co 6:18
immorality! Every other sin that a person commits is outside the body, but
Possible meanings are 1) Paul is showing that sexual sin is especially bad because it is not only against others but against the sinner's own body or 2) Paul is quoting what some Corinthians were thinking. Alternate Translation: "immorality! Some of you are saying, 'Every sin that a person commits is outside the body,' but I say that"
1Co 7:28
I want to spare you from this
The word "this" refers to the kinds of worldly trouble that married people might have. Alternate Translation: "I want to help you not to have worldly trouble"
1Co 8:4
We know that an idol in this world is nothing and that there is no God but one
Paul is probably quoting phrases that some Corinthians used. Being "nothing" represents having no power. Alternate Translation: "We all know, as you yourselves like to say, that an idol in this world has no power and that there is no God but one"
1Co 11:26
until he comes
Where Jesus comes to can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "until Jesus comes back to the earth"
1Co 11:30
some of you
If this would sound like Paul is talking to those who have died, you may need to make explicit that he is not. Alternate Translation: "some of the members of your group"
1Co 15:31
my boasting in you, which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord
Paul boasted in them because of what Christ Jesus had done for them. Alternate Translation: "my boasting in you, which I do because of what Christ Jesus our Lord has done for you"
2Co 1:17
Do I plan things ... so that I say "Yes, yes" and "No, no" at the same time?
This means that Paul did not say both that he would visit and that he would not visit at the same time. The words "yes" and "no" are repeated for emphasis. Alternate Translation: "I do not plan things ... so that I say 'Yes, I will certainly visit' and 'No, I will definitely not visit' at the same time!"
2Co 1:19
For the Son of God ... is not "Yes" and "No." Instead, he is always "Yes."
Jesus says "Yes" concerning the promises of God, which means that he guarantees that they are true. Alternate Translation: "For the Son of God ... does not say 'Yes' and 'No' concerning God's promises. Instead, he always says 'Yes.'"
2Co 1:20
all the promises of God are "Yes" in him
This means that Jesus guarantees all of God's promises. Alternate Translation: "all the promises of God are guaranteed in Jesus Christ"
2Co 2:3
I wrote as I did
This refers to another letter that Paul had written to the Corinthian Christians that no longer exists. Alternate Translation: "I wrote as I did in my previous letter"
2Co 2:9
you are obedient in everything
Possible meanings are 1) "you are obedient to God in everything" or 2) "you are obedient in everything that I have taught you"
2Co 3:5
to claim anything as coming from us
Here the word "anything" refers to anything pertaining to Paul's apostolic ministry. Alternate Translation: "to claim that anything we have done in ministry comes from our own efforts"
2Co 3:7
the service that produced
the ministry of death. This refers to the Old Testament law that God gave through Moses. Alternate Translation: "the ministry that causes death because it is based on the law"
2Co 3:8
the service that the Spirit does
the ministry of the Spirit. This refers to the new covenant, of which Paul is a minister. Alternate Translation: "the ministry that gives life because it is based on the Spirit"
2Co 3:9
the service of condemnation
the ministry of condemnation. This refers to the Old Testament law. Alternate Translation: "the ministry that condemns people because it is based on the law"
2Co 3:9
the service of righteousness
the ministry of righteousness. This refers to the new covenant, of which Paul is a minister. Alternate Translation: "the ministry that makes people righteous because it is based on the Spirit"
2Co 3:13
the ending of a glory that was passing away
The refers to the glory that shined on Moses' face. Alternate Translation: "the glory on Moses' face as it faded away completely"
2Co 4:1
and just as we have received mercy
This phrase explains how Paul and his coworkers "have this ministry." It is a gift that God has given to them through his mercy. Alternate Translation: "because God has shown us mercy"
2Co 4:16
outwardly we are wasting away
This refers to their physical bodies decaying and dying. Alternate Translation: "our physical bodies are getting weak and dying"
2Co 4:16
inwardly we are being renewed day by day
This refers to their inward, spiritual lives getting stronger. Alternate Translation: "our spiritual beings are being strengthened day by day"
2Co 5:11
we persuade people
Possible meanings are 1) "we persuade people of the truth of the gospel" or 2) "we persuade people that we are legitimate apostles."
2Co 5:21
so that we might become the righteousness of God in him
The phrase "the righteousness of God" refers to the righteousness that God requires and which comes from God. Alternate Translation: "so that we might have God's righteousness in us through Christ"
2Co 6:1
Working together
Paul is implying that he and Timothy are working with God. Alternate Translation: "Working together with God"
2Co 6:2
For he says
For God says. This introduces a quotation from the prophet Isaiah. Alternate Translation: "For God says in scripture"
2Co 7:5
by conflicts on the outside and fears on the inside
Possible meanings for "outside" are 1) "outside of our bodies" or 2) "outside of the church." The word "inside" refers to their inward emotions. Alternate Translation: "by conflicts with other people and by fears within ourselves"
2Co 7:7
by the comfort that Titus had received from you
Paul received comfort from knowing that the Corinthians had comforted Titus. Alternate Translation: "by learning about the comfort that Titus had received from you"
2Co 7:10
Worldly sorrow, however, brings about death
This kind of sorrow leads to death instead of salvation because it does not produce repentance. Alternate Translation: "Worldly sorrow, however, leads to spiritual death"
2Co 8:4
this ministry to the believers
Paul is referring to providing money to the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "this ministry of providing for the believers in Jerusalem"
2Co 8:6
who had already begun this task
Paul is referring to the collection of money from the Corinthians for the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "who had encouraged your giving in the first place"
2Co 8:6
to complete among you this act of grace
Titus was to help the Corinthians to complete the collection of money. Alternate Translation: "to encourage you to finish collecting and giving your generous gift"
2Co 8:8
by comparing it to the eagerness of other people
Paul is encouraging the Corinthians to give generously by comparing them with the generosity of the Macedonian churches.
2Co 8:10
In this matter
This refers to their collecting money to give to the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "With regard to the collection"
2Co 8:13
For this task
This refers to collecting money for the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "For this task of collecting money"
2Co 8:17
For he not only accepted our appeal
Paul is referring to his asking Titus to return to Corinth and complete the collection. Alternate Translation: "For he not only agreed to our request that he help you with the collection"
2Co 9:1
the ministry for the believers
This refers to the collection of money to give to the believers in Jerusalem. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "the ministry for the believers in Jerusalem"
2Co 9:11
This will bring about thanksgiving to God through us
The word this refers to the Corinthian's generosity. Alternate Translation: "Because of your generosity, those who receive the gifts we bring them will thank God" or "and when we give your gifts to those who need them, they will give thanks to God"
2Co 9:12
For carrying out this service
Here the word "service" refers to Paul and his companions bringing the contribution to the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "For our carrying out this service for the believers in Jerusalem"
2Co 11:8
I could serve you
The full meaning of this can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "I could serve you at no cost"
2Co 11:9
In everything I have kept myself from being a burden to you
I have never in any way been a financial burden to you. Paul speaks of someone for whom one has to spend money as if they were heavy items that people have to carry. The full meaning of this can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "I have done all I can to make sure you do not have to spend money so that I can be with you"
2Co 11:26
in danger from false brothers
The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "and in danger from people who claimed to be brothers in Christ, but who betrayed us"
2Co 12:14
I want you
The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "What I want is that you love and accept me"
Gal 2:4
to make us slaves
to make us slaves to the law. Paul is speaking about being forced to follow the Jewish rituals that the law commanded. He is speaking about this as if it were slavery. The most important ritual was circumcision. Alternate Translation: "to force us to obey the law"
Gal 2:10
remember the poor
You may need to make explicit what about the poor he was to remember. Alternate Translation: "remember to take care of the needs of the poor"
Gal 2:12
He was afraid of those who were demanding circumcision
The reason Cephas was afraid can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "He was afraid that these men who required circumcision would judge that he was doing something wrong" or "He was afraid that these men who required circumcision would blame him for doing something wrong"
Gal 3:4
Have you suffered so many things for nothing
It can be stated clearly that they had suffered these things because of people who opposed them for their faith in Christ. Alternate Translation: "Have you suffered so many things by those who opposed you for your faith in Christ for nothing" or "You believed in Christ, and you suffered many things by those who oppose Christ. Were your belief and suffering for nothing"
Gal 3:5
by hearing with faith
Your language may require that what the people heard and whom they trusted be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "because you heard the message and had faith in Jesus" or "because you listened to the message and trusted in Jesus"
Gal 3:11
Now it is clear
What is clear can be stated explicitly. AT "The scriptures are clear" or "The scriptures teach clearly"
Gal 3:11
no one is justified before God by the law
Paul is correcting their believe that if they obeyed the law, God would justify them. Alternate Translation: "no one is justified before God by obeying the law" or "God does not justify anyone for their obedience to the law"
Gal 5:1
For freedom Christ has set us free
It is so that we can be free that Christ has set us free. It is implied that Christ sets believers free from the old covenant. Here freedom from the old covenant is a metaphor for not being obligated to obey it. Alternate Translation: "Christ has set us free from the old covenant so that we might be free" or "Christ has set us free so that we might live as free poeple"
Gal 5:4
you no longer experience grace
Who that grace comes from can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "God will not be gracious to you"
Gal 5:8
him who calls you
What he calls them to can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "the one who calls you to be his people"
Gal 5:13
an opportunity for the sinful nature
The relationship between the opportunity and the sinful nature can be stated more clearly. Alternate Translation: "an opportunity for you to behave according to your sinful nature"
Eph 3:12
access with confidence
It may be helpful to state explicitly that this access is into God's presence. Alternate Translation: "access into God's presence with confidence" or "freedom to enter into God's presence with confidence"
Eph 3:14
For this reason
You may need to make explicit what the reason is. Alternate Translation: "Because God has done all this for you"
Eph 4:12
He gave these offices
The one to whom Christ gave the gifts can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "Christ gave these offices to the church" or "He gave people with these responsibilities to the church
Eph 5:28
as their own bodies
That people love their own bodies may be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "as husbands love their own bodies"
Eph 6:12
against the powers over this present darkness
Here it is implied that "the powers" refers to powerful spiritual beings. Here "darkness" is a metaphor for things that are evil. Alternate Translation: "against the powerful spiritual beings that rule over people during this present evil time"
Eph 6:20
so that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak
The word "pray" is understood from verse 19. Alternate Translation: "so pray that whenever I teach the gospel, I will speak it as boldly as I should" or "pray that I may speak the gospel as boldly as I should"
Php 1:9
in knowledge and all understanding
Here "understanding" refers to understanding about God. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "as you learn and understand more about what pleases God"
Php 1:12
that what has happened to me
Paul is talking about his time in prison. Alternate Translation: "that the things I suffered because I was put into prison for preaching about Jesus"
Php 2:27
sorrow upon sorrow
The cause of the sorrow can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "the sorrow of losing him added to the sorrow I already have from being in prison"
Php 3:1
and it keeps you safe
Here "these things" refers to Paul's teachings. You can add this alternate translation to the end of the previous sentence. Alternate Translation: "because these teachings will protect you from those who teach what is not true"
Php 3:8
now I count
The word "now" emphasizes how Paul has changed since he quit being a Pharisee and became a believer in Christ. Alternate Translation: "now that I have trusted in Christ, I count"
Php 4:12
I know what it is to be poor ... to have plenty
Paul knows how to live happily having either no possessions or many possessions.
Php 4:18
even more
Paul means plenty of the things that he needs for himself.
Col 1:28
so that we may present every person
You may need to make explicit to whom they will present every person. Alternate Translation: "so that we may present to God every person"
Col 3:11
Christ is all, and is in all
Nothing is excluded or left out of the rule of Christ. Alternate Translation: "Christ is all important and lives in all his people"
1Th 1:1
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy to the church
The UDB makes clear that it was Paul who wrote this letter.
1Th 2:4
We speak
Paul is referring to preaching the gospel message.
1Th 3:3
we have been appointed
Paul assumes that everyone knows that it was God who appointed them. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "God has appointed us"
1Th 3:5
I sent
It is implied that Paul sent Timothy. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "I sent Timothy"
1Th 3:6
the good news of your faith
It is understood that this refers to faith in Christ. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "a good report of your faith"
1Th 3:7
because of your faith
This refers to faith in Christ. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "because of your faith in Christ"
1Th 4:6
the Lord is an avenger
This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "the Lord will punish the one who transgressed and will defend the one who was wronged"
1Th 4:11
take care of your own responsibilities
do your own work or "take care of the things that your are responsible to do." This may also imply that we should not gossip and interfere in other people's concerns.
1Th 4:13
like the rest who do not have hope
like people who do not confidence in the future promise. It can be stated clearly what those people do not have confidence about. Alternate Translation: "like the people who are not sure that they will rise from the dead"
1Th 4:16
the dead in Christ will rise first
The "dead in Christ" are those believers who have passed away. Alternate Translation: "those who believe in Jesus Christ, but who have already died, will rise first"
2Th 2:15
whether by word or by our letter
By word here is a synecdoche for "by instructions" or "by teachings." You can make clear the implicit information. Alternate Translation: "whether by what we taught you in person or by what we wrote to you in a letter"
2Th 3:16
May the Lord of peace himself give you
You can make explicit that this is Paul's prayer for the Thessalonians. Alternate Translation: "I pray that the Lord of peace himself gives you"
1Ti 1:3
a different doctrine
The implied information can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "a different doctrine from what we teach"
1Ti 2:6
as the testimony at the right time
It can be made explicit that this was the testimony that God wants to save all people. Alternate Translation: "as the proof at the right time that God wants to save all people"
1Ti 3:13
a good standing
The implied meaning may be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "a good reputation among other believers"
1Ti 4:3
forbid to marry
It is implied that they will forbid believers to marry. Alternate Translation: "forbid believers to marry"
1Ti 4:3
to receive foods
It is implied that they will forbid only certain foods. Alternate Translation: "they will require believers to abstain from certain foods" or "they will not allow people to eat certain foods"
1Ti 5:23
You should no longer drink water
It is implied that Paul means Timothy should not drink only water. He is telling Timothy to use wine as medicine. The water in that area often caused sickness.
1Ti 6:1
Let all who are
It is implied that Paul is speaking about believers. Alternate Translation: "Let all who are believers"
1Ti 6:13
before God, who causes all things to live
in the presence of God, who causes all things to live. It is implied that Paul as asking God to be his witness. Alternate Translation: "with God, who causes all things to live, as my witness"
1Ti 6:13
before Christ Jesus, who spoke ... Pilate
in the presence of Christ Jesus, who spoke ... Pilate. It is implied that Paul as asking Jesus to be his witness. Alternate Translation: "with Christ Jesus, who spoke ... Pilate, as my witness"
1Ti 6:15
God will reveal Christ's appearing
It is implied that God will reveal Jesus. Alternate Translation: "God will reveal Jesus"
2Ti 2:5
as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes by the rules
Paul is implicitly speaking of Christ's servants as if they were athletes.
2Ti 4:1
this solemn command before God and Christ Jesus
this solemn command in the presence of God and Christ Jesus. It is implied that God and Jesus will be Paul's witnesses. Alternate Translation: "this solemn command having as my witnesses God and Christ Jesus"
2Ti 4:13
especially the parchments
This may refer to a specific type of scroll. Alternate Translation: "especially those made from animal skins"
Tit 1:6
the husband of one wife
This means that he has only one wife, that is, he does not have any other wives or concubines. It may also imply that he does not commit adultery and that he has not divorced a previous wife. Alternate Translation: "a man who has only one woman" or "a man who is faithful to his wife"
Tit 2:1
But you, speak what fits
Paul implies what is in contrast. Alternate Translation: "But you, Titus, in contrast with the false teachers, be sure to say those things that fit"
Tit 2:14
gave himself for us
This refers to Jesus dying willingly. Alternate Translation: "gave himself to die for us"
Tit 2:15
give correction with all authority
This statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "Correct with all authority those people who do not do these things"
Tit 2:15
disregard you
This statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "refuse to listen to your words" or "refuse to respect you"
Phm 1:13
for the sake of the gospel
Paul was in prison because he preached the gospel publicly. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "because I preach the gospel"
Phm 1:19
you owe me your own self
you owe me your own life. Paul was implying that Philemon should not say that Onesimus or Paul owed him anything because Philemon owed Paul even more. The reason Philemon owed Paul his life can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "you owe me much because I saved your life" or "you owe me your own life because what I told you saved your life"
Heb 2:2
For if the message that was spoken through the angels
The Jews believed that God spoke his law to Moses through angels. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "For if the message that God spoke through the angels"
Heb 2:11
have one source
Who that source is can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "have one source, God himself" or "have the same Father"
Heb 6:11
to the end
The implicit meaning can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "to the end of your lives"
Heb 7:1
Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings
This is refers to when Abraham and his men went and defeated the armies of four kings in order to rescue his nephew, Lot, and his family.
Heb 7:20
And it was not without an oath!
The word "it" refers to Jesus becoming the eternal priest. It can be stated clearly who made the oath. Alternate Translation: "And God did not choose this new priest without swearing an oath!" or "And it was because God swore an oath that the Lord became the new priest!"
Heb 7:25
Therefore he
You can make explicit what "Therefore" implies. Alternate Translation: "Because Christ is our high priest who lives forever, he"
Heb 8:5
was about to construct the tabernacle
Moses did not construct the tabernacle himself. He ordered the people to construct it. Alternate Translation: "was about to command the people to construct the tabernacle"
Heb 8:5
on the mountain
You can make explicit that "mountain" refers to Mount Sinai. Alternate Translation: "on Mount Sinai"
Heb 9:4
Aaron's rod that budded
This was the rod Aaron had when God proved to the people of Israel that he had chosen Aaron as his priest by making Aaron's rod bud.
Heb 9:22
forgiveness
You can state explicitly the implied meaning. Alternate Translation: "forgiveness of the sins of the people"
Heb 10:17
Their sins and lawless deeds I will remember no longer." Now
I will no longer remember their sins and lawless deeds.' Now or "I will no longer think about their sins and lawless deeds.' Now" This is the second part of the Holy Spirit's testimony
Heb 10:18
Their sins and lawless deeds I will remember no longer." Now
I will no longer remember their sins and lawless deeds.' Now or "I will no longer think about their sins and lawless deeds.' Now" This is the second part of the Holy Spirit's testimony
Heb 10:25
Let us not stop meeting together
You can make explicit that the people met to worship. Alternate Translation: "Let us not stop coming together to worship"
Heb 10:26
the truth
The truth about God.
Heb 10:26
a sacrifice for sins no longer exists
No one is able to give a new sacrifice because Christ's sacrifice is the only one that works. Alternate Translation: "no one can offer a sacrifice for which God will forgive our sins"
Heb 10:27
of judgment
Of God's judgment, that is, that God will judge.
Heb 10:28
of two or three witnesses
It is implied that this means "of at least two or three witness."
Heb 10:37
For in a very little while
You can make this explicit. Alternate Translation: "As God said in the scriptures, 'For in a very little while"
Heb 11:2
the ancestors
The author is speaking to the Hebrews about Hebrew ancestors. Alternate Translation: "our ancestors"
Heb 11:22
instructed them about his bones
Joseph died while in Egypt. He wanted his people to take his bones with them when they left Egypt so they could bury his bones in the land that God promised them.
Heb 11:28
the sprinkling of the blood
This refers to God's command to the Israelites to kill a lamb and spread its blood on the doorposts of every house where Israelites lived. This would prevent the destroyer from harming their firstborn sons. This was one of the Passover commands.
Heb 12:18
For you have not come to a mountain that can be touched
The implicit information can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "For you have not come, as the people of Israel came, to a mountain that can be touched"
Heb 12:25
if they did not escape
The implicit information can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "if the people of Israel did not escape judgment"
Heb 13:6
The Lord is my helper ... do to me
This is a quotation from the book of Psalms in the Old Testament.
Jas 1:1
James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ
The phrase "this letter is from" is implied. Alternate Translation: "This letter is from James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ"
Jas 1:21
save your souls
What a person is saved from can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "save you from God's judgment"
Jas 1:24
then goes away and immediately forgets what he was like
It is implied that though he may see that he needs to do something, such as wash his face or fix his hair, he walks away and forgets to do it. This what a person who does not obey God's word is like. Alternate Translation: "then goes away and immediately forgets to do what he saw he needed to do"
Jas 1:25
the perfect law of freedom
The relationship between the law and freedom can be expressed clearly. Here "freedom" probably refers to freedom from sin. Alternate Translation: "the perfect law that gives freedom" or "the perfect law that makes those who follow it free"
Jas 2:6
drag you to court
forcibly take you to court to accuse you in front of judges
Jas 2:16
be filled
The thing that fills them is food. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "be filled with food" or "have enough to eat"
Jas 3:1
we who teach will be judged more strictly
This passage speaks of stricter judgment that will come from God on those who teach others about him. Alternate Translation: "God will judge us who teach more severely because we know his word better than some people whom we have taught"
Jas 4:6
But God gives more grace
How this phrase relates to the previous verse can be made explicit: "But, even though our spirits may desire what we cannot have, God gives us even more grace, if we will humble ourselves"
Jas 5:1
you who are rich
Possible meanings are 1) James is giving a strong warning to wealthy believers or 2) James is talking about wealthy unbelievers. Alternate Translation: "you who are rich and say you honor God"
1Pe 2:6
a cornerstone, chosen and valuable
God is the one who chose the stone. Alternate Translation: "a most important cornerstone, which I have chosen"
1Pe 2:8
A stone of stumbling and a rock that makes them fall
These two phrases share similar meanings. Together they emphasize that people will take offense at this "stone," which refers to Jesus. Alternate Translation: "a stone or a rock over which people will stumble"
1Pe 2:12
on the day of his coming
on the day when he comes. This refers to the day when God will judge all people. Alternate Translation: "when he comes to judge everyone"
1Pe 3:7
Do this
Here "this" refers to the ways husbands should treat their wives. Alternate Translation: "Live with your wives in this way"
1Pe 3:9
continue to bless
You can clarify the object of blessing. Alternate Translation: "continue to bless those who do evil to you or insult you"
1Pe 3:10
General Information:
In these verses Peter quotes from the Psalms.
1Pe 4:10
As each one of you has received a gift
This refers to special spiritual abilities that God gives to believers. Alternate Translation: "Because each one of you has received a special spiritual ability as a gift from God"
2Pe 1:1
to those who have received the same precious faith
That these people have received faith implies that God has given that faith to them. Alternate Translation: "to those to whom God has given the same precious faith"
2Pe 1:2
May grace and peace increase in measure
God is the one who will give grace and peace to believers. Alternate Translation: "May God increase your grace and your peace"
2Pe 1:5
For this reason
This refers to what Peter has just said in the previous verses. Alternate Translation: "Because of what God has done"
2Pe 1:19
For we have this prophetic word made more sure
The things that Peter and the other apostles saw, which he described in the previous verses, confirm what the prophets spoke. This can be stated in active form. Alternate Translation: "For the things that we saw make this prophetic message more sure"
2Pe 1:19
this prophetic word made
This refers to the Old Testament. Alternate Translation: "the scriptures, which the prophets spoke, made"
2Pe 2:18
people who try to escape from those who live in error
This phrase refers to people who recently became believers. The phrase "those who live in error" refers to unbelievers who still live in sin. Alternate Translation: "people who try to live rightly, instead of living sinfully as they used to and as other people do"
2Pe 3:3
proceed according to their own desires
Here the word "desires" refers to sinful desires that are opposed to God's will. Alternate Translation: "live according to their own sinful desires"
2Pe 3:15
consider the patience of our Lord to be salvation
Because the Lord is patient, the day of judgment has not yet happened. This gives people an opportunity to repent and be saved, as he explained in [2 Peter 3:9](./08.md). Alternate Translation: "Also, think about the patience of our Lord as giving you an opportunity to repent and be saved"
1Jn 1:10
we make him out to be a liar
It is implied that a person who claims to be without sin would be calling God a liar since he said that everyone is a sinner. Alternate Translation: "it is the same as calling him a liar, because he said we have all sinned"
1Jn 2:1
we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the one who is righteous
The word "advocate" here refers to Jesus. Alternate Translation: "we have Jesus Christ, the one who is righteous, who speaks to the Father and asks him to forgive us"
1Jn 2:7
from the beginning
Here, "beginning" refers to when they decided to follow Christ. Alternate Translation: "from when you first believed in Christ"
1Jn 2:20
the Holy One
This refers to Jesus. Alternate Translation: "Jesus, the Holy One"
1Jn 2:24
let what you have heard from the beginning remain in you
remember and believe what you have heard from the beginning. How they heard it, what they heard, and what "the beginning" means can be made explicit: Alternate Translation: "continue to trust what we have taught you about Jesus just as you have trusted since you first became believers"
1Jn 5:9
If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater
The translator can state more clearly the implied reason about why we should believe what God says: Alternate Translation: "If we believe what people say, then we should believe what God says because he always tells the truth"
2Jn 1:1
From the elder to the chosen lady and her children
This is how letters were started. The name of the author can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "I, John the elder, am writing this letter to the chosen lady and her children"
2Jn 1:5
but one that we have had from the beginning
Here, "beginning" refers to "when we first believed." Alternate Translation: "but I am writing to you what Christ commanded us to do when we first believed.
3Jn 1:1
The elder
This refers to John, the apostle and disciple of Jesus. He refers to himself as "elder" either because of his old age or because he is a leader in the church. The name of the author can be made explicit: "I, John the elder, am writing."
Rev 2:19
your love and faith and service and your patient endurance
The implied objects of these verbs can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "How you have loved me and others, trusted me, served me and others, and endured troubles patiently"
Rev 2:22
unless they repent of her deeds
This implies that they have participated with her in her wicked behavior. By repenting of her deeds, they also repent of participating in her behavior. Alternate Translation: "if they do not repent from doing the evil that she does" or "if they do not repent of participating in her deeds"
Rev 2:28
Just as I have received from my Father
Some languages may need to tell what was received. Possible meanings are 1) "Just as I have received authority from my Father" or 2) "Just as I have received the morning star from my Father."
Rev 3:3
what you have received and heard
This refers to God's word, which they believed. Alternate Translation: "God's word that you heard and the truth that you believed"
Rev 3:11
I am coming soon
It is understood that he is coming in order to judge. Alternate Translation: "I am coming to judge soon"
Rev 9:3
power like that of scorpions
Scorpions have the ability to sting and poison other animals and people. Alternate Translation: "the ability to sting people as scorpions do"
Rev 11:4
the two olive trees and the two lampstands that
John expects his readers to know about them because many years earlier another prophet had written about them. Alternate Translation: "the two olive trees and the two lampstands, told about in scripture, that"
Rev 11:17
you have taken your great power
What God did with his great power can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "you have defeated with your power everyone who has rebelled against you"
Rev 13:10
If anyone is to be taken
This expression means that someone has decided who should be taken. If needed, translators may state clearly who decided it. Alternate Translation: "If God has decided that someone should be taken" or "If it is God's will that someone should be taken"
Rev 13:17
It was impossible for anyone to buy or sell unless he had the mark of the beast
People could buy or sell things only if they had the mark of the beast. The implicit information that the beast from the earth commanded it can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "He commanded that people could buy or sell things only if they had the mark of the beast"
Rev 15:2
who had been victorious over the beast and his image
How they were victorious can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "who had been victorious over the beast and his image by not worshiping them"
Rev 15:2
over the number representing his name
How they were victorious over the number can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "over the number representing his name by not being marked with that number"
Rev 15:7
seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God
The image of the wine in the bowls can be stated clearly. The word "wrath" here refers to punishment. The wine is a symbol for punishment. Alternate Translation: "seven gold bowls full of the wine that represents the wrath of God"
Rev 16:1
bowls of God's wrath
The image of the wine in the bowls can be stated clearly. The word "wrath" here refers to punishment. The wine is a symbol for punishment. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Revelation 15:7](../15/07.md). Alternate Translation: "bowls full of the wine that represents God's wrath"
Rev 16:15
Look! I am coming ... his shameful condition
This is in parentheses to show that it is not part of the story line in the vision. Rather, this is something that the Lord Jesus said. It can be stated clearly that the Lord Jesus said this, as in the UDB.
Rev 17:1
on many waters
If you need to, you can use a more specific word for the kind of water. Alternate Translation: "on many rivers"
Rev 17:5
Babylon the great
If it needs to be made clear that the name refers to the woman, it can be put in a sentence. Alternate Translation: "I am Babylon, the powerful one"
Rev 17:15
The waters
If you need to, you can use a more specific word for the kind of water. See how you translated "many waters" in [Revelation 17:1](./01.md). Alternate Translation: "The rivers"
Rev 19:5
you who fear him
Here "fear" does not mean to be afraid of God, but to honor him. Alternate Translation: "all you who honor him"
Rev 19:10
for the testimony about Jesus is the spirit of prophecy
Here "spirit of prophecy" refers to God's Holy Spirit. Alternate Translation: "for it is the Spirit of God who gives people the power to speak the truth about Jesus"
Rev 19:11
It is with justice that he judges and wages war
Here "justice" refers to what is right. Alternate Translation: "He judges all people and wages war according to what is right"
Rev 20:3
sealed it over him
The angel sealed the pit to keep anyone from opening it. Alternate Translation: "sealed it to prevent anyone from opening it"
Rev 22:6
General Information:
This is the beginning of the end of John's vision. In verse 6 the angel is speaking to John. In verse 7, Jesus is speaking. This can be shown clearly as is is in the UDB.
Rev 22:7
I am coming soon!
It is understood that he is coming in order to judge. See how you translated this in [Revelation 3:11](../03/11.md). Alternate Translation: "I am coming to judge soon!"
Rev 22:10
Do not seal up ... this book
To seal a book was to keep it closed with something that makes it impossible for anyone to read what was inside without breaking the seal. The angel is telling John not to keep the message a secret. Alternate Translation: "Do not keep secret ... this book"
Rev 22:17
Come!
Possible meanings are 1) that this is an invitation for people to come and drink the water of life. Alternate Translation: "Come and drink!" or 2) that this is a polite request for Jesus to return. Alternate Translation: "Please come!"