VersePhraseExplanation
Mat 1:18His mother, Mary, was engaged to marry JosephHis 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 1:18His mother, Mary, was engagedTranslate 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 1:19Her husband, JosephJoseph 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 1:22the prophetThere were many prophets. Matthew was speaking of Isaiah. Alternate Translation: "the prophet Isaiah"
Mat 2:7what time the star had appearedIt 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 2:13until I tell youThe full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "until I tell you it is safe to come back"
Mat 2:15He remainedIt is implied that Joseph, Mary, and Jesus remained in Egypt. Alternate Translation: "They remained"
Mat 2:16He sent and killed all the male childrenHerod 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 3:9We have Abraham for our fatherAbraham 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 4:13in the territories of Zebulun and NaphtaliZebulun 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 4:18casting a net into the seaThe full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "throwing a net into the water to catch fish"
Mat 5:14A city set on a hill cannot be hiddenAt 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 5:18not one jot or one tittleThe 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 5:18all thingsThe phrase "all things" refers to everything in the law. Alternate Translation: "everything in the law" or "all that is written in the law"
Mat 5:21Whoever kills will be in danger of the judgmentHere "the judgment" implies that a judge will condemn the person to die. Alternate Translation: "A judge will condemn anyone who kills another person"
Mat 5:21will be in danger of the judgmentIt seems here Jesus is not referring to a human judge but rather to God condemning the person who is angry with his brother.
Mat 5:23at the altarIt is implied that this is God's altar at the temple in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "to God at the altar in the temple"
Mat 5:41WhoeverAnyone who. The context implies that he is speaking about a Roman soldier.
Mat 6:1before people to be seen by themIt 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 6:5so that they may be seen by peopleIt 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 7:1Do not judgeIt is implied here that "judge" has the strong meaning of "condemn harshly" or "declare guilty." Alternate Translation: "Do not condemn people harshly"
Mat 7:22in that dayJesus 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 8:4show yourself to the priestJewish 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 8:4offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony to themThe 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 8:10I have not found anyone with such faith in IsraelJesus' 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 8:16When evening had comeBecause 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 8:31If you cast us outIt 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 9:21If only I touch his clothesAccording 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 9:27Have mercy on usIt is implied that they wanted Jesus to heal them.
Mat 10:11stay there until you leaveThe 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 10:25be like his teacherIf necessary, you can make explicit how the disciple becomes like the teacher. Alternate Translation: "know as much as his teacher knows"
Mat 10:25the servant like his masterIf 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 11:17We mournedThis means they sang sad songs like women did at funerals.
Mat 11:22than for youThe 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 11:24than for youThe 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 12:4bread of the presenceThis 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 12:7If you had known what this meant, 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the guiltlessHere 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 12:10so that they might accuse him of sinningThey 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 12:18he will proclaim justice to the GentilesThe 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 12:38to see a sign from youYou 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 12:41than Jonah is hereYou 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 12:42than Solomon is hereYou 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 13:1sat beside the seaIt is implied that he sat down to teach the people.
Mat 13:2so he got into a boatIt is implied that Jesus got into a boat because it would make it easier to teach the people.
Mat 13:14While hearing you will hear, but you will in no way understandYou 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 13:14while seeing you will see, but you will in no way perceiveYou 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 13:17the things that you seeYou can make explicit what they have seen. Alternate Translation: "the things you have seen me do"
Mat 13:17the things that you hearYou can make explicit what they have heard. Alternate Translation: "the things you have heard me say"
Mat 13:19the evil oneThis refers to Satan.
Mat 13:20What was sown on rocky groundThe phrase "what was sown" refers to seed that fell. Alternate Translation: "The seed that fell on rocky ground"
Mat 13:22What was sownThis refers to seed that was sown or that fell. Alternate Translation: "The seed that was sown" or "The seed that fell"
Mat 13:24good seedgood food seeds or "good grain seeds." The audience probably thought that Jesus was talking about wheat.
Mat 13:32This seed is indeed the smallest of all seedsMustard seeds were the smallest seeds known to the original hearers.
Mat 13:33until all the dough had risenThe implied information is that the yeast and the three measures of flour were made into dough for baking.
Mat 13:44sells everything he possesses, and buys that fieldThe implied information is that the person buys the field to take possession of the hidden treasure.
Mat 13:54his own regionhis hometown. This refers to the town of Nazareth, where Jesus grew up.
Mat 13:54Where 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 14:4It is not lawfulPhilip was still alive when Herod married Herodias.
Mat 14:6in the midstYou can make explicit the implicit information. Alternate Translation: "in the midst of the guests attending the birthday celebration"
Mat 14:12they went and told JesusThe 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 14:13he withdrewhe 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 15:2they do not wash their handsThis 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 15:6does not need to honor his fatherIt 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 15:7when he saidIt is implied that Isaiah is speaking what God told him. Alternate Translation: "when he told what God said"
Mat 15:21Jesus went awayIt is implied that the disciples went with Jesus. Alternate Translation: "Jesus and his disciples went away"
Mat 15:22Have mercy on meThis phrase implies that she is requesting that Jesus heal her daughter. Alternate Translation: "Have mercy and heal my daughter"
Mat 16:2When it is eveningThe 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 16:3When it is morningThe 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 16:18you are PeterThe name Peter means "rock."
Mat 17:10Why 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 17:15have mercy on my sonIt is implied that the man wants Jesus to heal his son. Alternate Translation: "have mercy on my son and heal him"
Mat 17:27throw in a hookFishermen tied hooks to the end of a line, then threw it in the water to catch fish.
Mat 18:10that in heaven their angels always look on the face of my Father who is in heavenJewish 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 18:17let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collectortreat him as you would treat a Gentile or tax collector. This implies that they should remove him from the community of believers.
Mat 18:19if two of youIt is implied that Jesus means "if at least two of you" or "if two or more of you."
Mat 18:20two or threeIt is implied that Jesus means "two or more" or "at least two."
Mat 18:34handed him overgave 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 19:5He 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 19:12For there are eunuchs who were that way from their mother's wombYou 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 19:25they were very astonishedthe disciples were amazed. It is implied that they were astonished because they believed having riches was proof that God approved of someone.
Mat 20:24they were very angry with the two brothersIf 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 21:2tied up thereYou can make explicit how the donkey is tied. Alternate Translation: "tied up there to a post" or "tied up there to a tree"
Mat 21:4through the prophetThere were many prophets. Matthew was speaking of Zechariah. Alternate Translation: "the prophet Zechariah"
Mat 21:8crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them in the roadThese are ways to show honor to Jesus as he was entering Jerusalem.
Mat 21:12Jesus entered the templeJesus did not enter the actual temple. He entered the courtyard around the temple.
Mat 21:15they became very angryIt 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 21:23had come into the templeIt is implied that Jesus did not enter the actual temple. He entered the courtyard around the temple.
Mat 22:4My oxen and fattened calves have been killedIt 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 22:7killed those murderersIt is implied that the king's soldiers killed the murderers.
Mat 22:16their disciples ... HerodiansThe 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 22:17to pay taxes to CaesarPeople did not pay taxes directly to Caesar but to one of his tax collectors. Alternate Translation: "to pay the taxes that Caesar requires"
Mat 22:29You are mistakenIt 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 22:46any more questionsIt 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 23:5For they make their phylacteries wide, and they enlarge the edges of their garmentsBoth of these are things the Pharisees do to appear as if they honor God more than other people.
Mat 23:27whitewashed tombstombs 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 24:1from the templeIt is implied that Jesus was not in the temple itself. He was in the courtyard around the temple.
Mat 24:2not one stone will be left on another that will not be torn downIt 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 24:3What will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the ageHere "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 25:11open for usThis implicit information can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "open the door for us so we can come inside"
Mat 25:15according to his own abilityThe implicit information can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "according to each servant's skill in managing wealth"
Mat 25:29who possessesIt is implied that the person who possesses something also uses it wisely. Alternate Translation: "who uses well what he has"
Mat 25:29from anyone who does not possess anythingIt 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 26:6Simon the leperIt is implied that this is a man whom Jesus had healed from leprosy.
Mat 26:31I will strikeHere "I" refers to God. It is implied that God will cause or allow people to harm and kill Jesus.
Mat 26:55in the templeIt is implied that Jesus was not in the actual temple. He was in the courtyard around the temple.
Mat 26:65He has spoken blasphemyThe 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 27:1plotted against Jesus to put him to deathThe Jewish leaders were planning how they could convince the Roman leaders to kill Jesus.
Mat 27:6the treasuryThis is the place they kept the money they used to provide for things needed for the temple and the priests.
Mat 27:11You say soPossible 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 27:26he scourged Jesus and handed him over to be crucifiedIt 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 27:32As they came outThis means Jesus and the soldiers came out of the city. Alternate Translation: "As they came out of Jerusalem"
Mat 27:35his garmentsThese were the clothes Jesus had been wearing.
Mat 27:40If you are the Son of God, come down from the crossThey 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 27:54those who were watching Jesusthose 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 27:60that he had cut into the rockIt is implied that Joseph had workers who cut the tomb into the rock.
Mat 27:60Then he rolled a large stoneMost likely Joseph had other people there to help him roll the stone.
Mat 28:17but some doubtedIt 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 1:16casting a net in the seaThe full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "throwing a net into the water to catch fish"
Mrk 1:19in the boatIt can be assumed that this boat belongs to James and John. Alternate Translation: "in their boat"
Mrk 1:20called themIt may be helpful to state clearly why Jesus called to James and John. Alternate Translation: "called them to come with him"
Mrk 1:31the fever left herIt can be shown clearly who healed her. Alternate Translation: "Jesus healed her of the fever"
Mrk 1:31she started serving themIt is implied that food was served. Alternate Translation: "she provided them with food and drinks"
Mrk 1:44show yourself to the priestJesus 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 1:45that Jesus could no longer enter a town openlyThis 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 2:2So many gathered thereThe 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 2:2there was no more spaceThis refers to there being no space inside the house. Alternate Translation: "there was no more room for them inside"
Mrk 2:5Seeing their faithSeeing 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 2:21No man sews a piece of new cloth on an old garmentSewing 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 2:23pick heads of grainThe 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 2:25read what DavidJesus 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 3:2so that they could accuse himIf 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 3:10everyone who had afflictions eagerly approached him in order to touch himThey 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 3:11they fell down ... cried out, and they saidHere "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 4:12when they look ... when they hearIt 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 4:17tribulation or persecution comes because of the wordIt 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 5:4No one had the strength to subdue himThe 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 5:6When he saw Jesus from a distanceWhen the man first saw Jesus, Jesus would have been getting out of the boat.
Mrk 5:13he allowed themIt 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 5:19But Jesus did not permit himWhat 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 5:24So he went with himSo Jesus went with Jairus. Jesus' disciples also went with him. Alternate Translation: "So Jesus and the disciples went with Jairus"
Mrk 5:27the reports about JesusShe had heard reports about Jesus of how he healed people. Alternate Translation: "that Jesus healed people"
Mrk 5:37to accompany himto come with him. It may be helpful to state where they were going. Alternate Translation: "to accompany him to Jairus' house"
Mrk 5:40went in where the child wasIt may be helpful to state where the child is. Alternate Translation: "went into the room where the child was lying"
Mrk 6:11as a testimony to themas 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 6:14Some were saying, "John the Baptist has beenSome 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 6:15Some 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 6:26because of the oath he had made and because of his dinner guestsThe 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 6:44There were five thousand men who ate the loavesThe 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 6:51They were completely amazedIf 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 6:55they ran throughout the whole regionIt 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 7:12then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or his motherBy 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 7:15nothing from outside of a personJesus 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 7:15It is what comes out of the personThis 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 7:19all foods cleanIt 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 7:29you are free to goJesus 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 7:29The demon has gone out of your daughterJesus 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 7:32they begged him to lay his hand on himProphets 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 7:33after spittingIt may be helpful to state that Jesus spit on his fingers. Alternate Translation: "after spitting on his fingers"
Mrk 8:8the remaining broken pieces, seven large basketsThis 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 8:9Then he sent them awayIt may be helpful to clarify when he sent them away. Alternate Translation: "After they ate, Jesus sent them away"
Mrk 8:10they went into the region of DalmanuthaIt 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 8:11to test himThe 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 8:12this generationWhen 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 8:13he left them, got into a boat againJesus' disciples went with him. Some information can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "he left them, got into a boat again with his disciples"
Mrk 8:13to the other sideThis describes the Sea of Galilee, which can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "to the other side of the sea"
Mrk 8:16It is because we have no breadIn 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 8:19how many baskets full of broken pieces of bread did you take upIt 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 8:20how many basketfuls did you take upIt 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 8:22to touch himIt may be helpful to state why they wanted Jesus to touch the man. Alternate Translation: "to touch him in order to heal him"
Mrk 8:28John the BaptistThe 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 8:30Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about himJesus 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 8:32began to rebuke himPeter 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 8:35for my sake and for the gospelbecause 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 9:4Elijah with Moses appearedIt may be helpful to state who these men are. Alternate Translation: "two prophets who had lived long ago, Elijah and Moses, appeared"
Mrk 9:9he commanded them to tell no one ... until the Son of Man had risenThis implies that he was permitting them to tell people about what they had seen only after he rose from being dead.
Mrk 9:11Why 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 9:13they did whatever they wanted to himIt 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 9:15was amazedIt may be helpful to state why they were amazed. Alternate Translation: "was amazed that Jesus had come"
Mrk 9:19He answered themThough 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 9:26came outIt is implied that the spirit came out of the boy. Alternate Translation: "came out of the boy"
Mrk 9:31for he was teaching his disciplesJesus was teaching his disciples privately, away from the crowd. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "for he was teaching his disciples privately"
Mrk 9:34they were silentThey were silent because they were ashamed to tell Jesus what they had been discussing. Alternate Translation: "they were silent because they were ashamed"
Mrk 9:34who was the greatestHere "the greatest" refers to "the greatest" among the disciples. Alternate Translation: "who was the greatest among them"
Mrk 9:37the one who sent meThis refers to God, who has sent him to earth. Alternate Translation: "God, who has sent me"
Mrk 9:38driving out demonssending away demons. This refers to casting demons out of people. Alternate Translation: "driving demons out of people"
Mrk 9:47to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyesThis 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 9:48where their worm does not dieThe meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "where worms that eat people there do not die"
Mrk 10:1Jesus left that placeJesus' disciples were traveling with him. They were leaving Capernaum. Alternate Translation: "Jesus and his disciples left Capernaum"
Mrk 10:9Therefore what God has joined together, let no man tear apartThe 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 10:10were in the houseJesus' disciples were speaking to him privately. Alternate Translation: were alone in the house"
Mrk 10:12she commits adulteryIn 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 10:13he might touch themThis 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 10:33the Son of Man willJesus is speaking about himself. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "I, the Son of Man, will"
Mrk 10:34he will riseThis refers to rising from the dead. Alternate Translation: "he will rise from being dead"
Mrk 10:43But it shall not be this way among youThis refers back to the previous verse about the Gentile rulers. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "But do not be like them"
Mrk 10:47Son of DavidJesus 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 10:52Your faith has healed youThis 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 11:3Why are you doing thisIt can be written clearly what the word "this" refers to. Alternate Translation: "Why are you untying and taking the colt"
Mrk 11:3will immediately send it back hereJesus 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 11:8Many people spread their garments on the roadIt 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 11:8others spread branches they had cut from the fieldsIt 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 11:9Blessed is the oneThis is referring to Jesus. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "Blessed are you, the one"
Mrk 11:10Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father DavidBlessed 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 11:13he found nothing but leavesThis means that he did not find any figs. Alternate Translation: "he found only leaves and no figs on the tree"
Mrk 11:15began to cast out the sellers and the buyers in the templeJesus 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 11:20the fig tree withered away to its rootsTranslate this statement to clarify that the tree died. Alternate Translation: "the fig tree withered away down to its roots and died"
Mrk 11:21Peter rememberedIt may be helpful to state what Peter remembered. Alternate Translation: "Peter remembered what Jesus had said to the fig tree"
Mrk 11:24it will be yoursIt 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 11:28you do these thingsThe 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 11:32But 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 11:32They were afraid of the peopleThe 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 12:1dug a pit for a winepressThis 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 12:2At the right timeThis refers to the time of harvest. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "When the time came to harvest the grapes"
Mrk 12:3with nothingThis means that they did not give him any of the fruit. Alternate Translation: "without any grapes"
Mrk 12:4they wounded him in the headThis can be written more clearly. Alternate Translation: "they beat that one on the head, and they hurt him terribly"
Mrk 12:5They treated many others in the same wayThis 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 12:6a beloved sonIt is implied that this is the owner's son. Alternate Translation: "his beloved son"
Mrk 12:7the heirThis is the owner's heir, who would inherit the vineyard after his father died. Alternate Translation: "the owner's heir"
Mrk 12:9will give the vineyard to othersThe 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 12:12but they feared the crowdThey 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 12:15Jesus knew their hypocrisyThey 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 12:17They marveled at himThey 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 12:18who say there is no resurrectionThis phrase explains who the Sadducees were. This can be written more clearly. Alternate Translation: "who say there is no resurrection from the dead"
Mrk 12:19raise up a descendant for his brotherhave 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 12:21the third likewiseIt 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 12:22The seven left no childrenEach 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 12:26the account about the bushThis 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 12:27You are quite mistakenIt 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 12:35While Jesus was teaching in the temple courts, he saidSome 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 12:36said, 'The Lord said to my LordHere 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 12:40will receive greater condemnationThe 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 13:1the wonderful stones and wonderful buildingsThe "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 13:2Not one stone will be left on another which will not be torn downIt 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 13:3As he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, PeterIt 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 13:4these things happen ... are about to happenThis 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 13:7the endThis probably refers to the end of the world.
Mrk 13:9as a testimony to themThis 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 13:10But the gospel must first be proclaimed to all the nationsJesus 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 13:13whoever endures to the endHere "endures" represents continuing to be faithful to God even while suffering. Alternate Translation: "whoever suffers and stays faithful to God to the end"
Mrk 13:14standing where it should not be standingJesus' 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 13:14let the reader understandThis 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 13:20had shortened the dayshad 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 13:23I have told you all these things ahead of timeJesus told them these things to warn them. Alternate Translation: "I have told you all these things ahead of time to warn you"
Mrk 13:25the stars will fall from the skyThis 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 13:29these thingsThis refers to the days of tribulation. Alternate Translation: "these things I have just described"
Mrk 13:32that day or that hourThis 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 13:33what time it isIt can be stated clearly what "time" refers to here. Alternate Translation: "when all these events will happen"
Mrk 14:10so that he might deliver him over to themJudas 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 14:11When the chief priests heard itIt 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 14:12when they sacrificed the Passover lambAt 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 14:15Make the preparations for us thereThey were to prepare the meal for Jesus and his disciples to eat. Alternate Translation: "Prepare the meal for us there"
Mrk 14:17he came with the twelveIt may be helpful to state where they came to. Alternate Translation: "he came with the twelve to the house"
Mrk 14:21through whom the Son of Man is betrayedThis can be stated more directly. Alternate Translation: "who betrays the Son of Man"
Mrk 14:22broke itThis means that he broke the bread into pieces for the people to eat. Alternate Translation: "broke it into pieces"
Mrk 14:24This is my blood of the covenant, the blood that is poured out for manyThe 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 14:35if it were possibleThis means that if God would allow it to happen. Alternate Translation: "if God would allow it"
Mrk 14:35the hour might passHere "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 14:41He came the third timeJesus 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 14:44he is the oneHere "the one" refers to the man that Judas was going to identify. Alternate Translation: "he is the one you want"
Mrk 14:54as far as the courtyard of the high priestAs 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 14:54He sat among the guardsPeter sat with the guards who were working at the courtyard. Alternate Translation: "He sat in the courtyard among the guards"
Mrk 14:55But they did not find anyThey 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 14:60stood up among themJesus 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 14:60Have 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 14:64You have heard the blasphemyThis refers to what Jesus said, which the high priest called blasphemy. Alternate Translation: "You have heard the blasphemy he has spoken"
Mrk 14:65to cover his faceThey covered his face with a cloth or blindfold, so he could not see. Alternate Translation: "to cover his face with a blindfold"
Mrk 14:65ProphesyThey mocked him, asking him to prophesy who was hitting him. Alternate Translation: "Prophesy who hit you"
Mrk 14:66one of the servant girls of the high priestThe servant girls worked for the high priest. Alternate Translation: "one of the servant girls who worked for the high priest"
Mrk 14:69one of themThe 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 15:2You say soPossible 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 15:8to do for them as he had done in the pastThis 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 15:10it was because of envy that the chief priestsThey 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 15:12What then should I do with the King of the JewsPilate 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 15:23wine mixed with myrrhIt 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 15:26On a signThe soldiers attached this sign to the cross above Jesus. Alternate Translation: "They attached to the cross above Jesus' head a sign on which"
Mrk 15:27one on the right of him and one on his leftThis 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 15:29You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three daysThe 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 15:32believeThe means to believe in Jesus. Alternate Translation: "believe in him"
Mrk 15:35Some of those standing by heard his words and saidIt 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 15:36gave it to himgave 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 15:43asked for the body of JesusIt 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 15:44Pilate was amazed that Jesus was already dead; he called the centurionPilate 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 1:2were eyewitnesses and servants of the wordAn "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 1:5divisionIt is understood that this refers to the priests. Alternate Translation: "division of priests" or "group of priests"
Luk 1:5His wife was from the daughters of AaronHis 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 1:8Zechariah was in God's presence, carrying out the priestly dutiesIt is implied that Zechariah was in God's temple and that these priestly duties were part of worshiping God.
Luk 1:10outsideThe courtyard was the enclosed area surrounding the temple. Alternate Translation: "outside the temple building" or "in the courtyard outside the temple"
Luk 1:17make ready for the Lord a people prepared for himWhat 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 1:26In the sixth monthin 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 1:40She wentIt 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 1:59they came to circumcise the childThis 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 1:63His father asked for a writing tabletIt 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 1:65Fear came on all who lived around themAll 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 1:68the God of IsraelIsrael 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 1:78because of the tender mercy of our GodIt might be helpful to state that God's mercy helps people. Alternate Translation: "because God is compassionate and merciful to us"
Luk 2:3his own cityThis 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 2:4to the city of David which is called BethlehemThe 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 2:7wrapped him in long strips of clothIn 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 2:12wrapped in strips of clothThis 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 2:22for their purificationfor them to become ceremonially clean. You can also state God's role. Alternate Translation: "for God to consider them to be clean again"
Luk 2:27into the templeinto the temple courtyard. Only priests could enter the temple building.
Luk 2:32for revelationIt may be necessary to state what is to be revealed. Alternate Translation: "that will reveal God's truth"
Luk 2:39their own town of NazarethThis 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 2:46in the templeThis 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 3:8We have Abraham for our fatherAbraham 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 3:16John answered by saying to them allJohn'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 3:19for marrying his brother's wife Herodiasbecause 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 3:20he locked John up in prisonBecause 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 4:4Jesus 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 4:5led Jesus upHe led Jesus up a mountain.
Luk 4:6they have been given to meThis 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 4:8It is writtenJesus 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 4:10For it is writtenThe 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 4:12It is saidJesus 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 4:13had finished testing JesusThis 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 4:25during the time of ElijahThe 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 4:26to Zarephath ... to a widow living thereThe 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 4:38pleaded with him on her behalfThis 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 4:39rebuked the fever, and it left herspoke 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 4:41Demons also came outIt 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 5:7they began to sinkthe boats began to sink. The reason could be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "the boats began to sink because the fish were so heavy"
Luk 5:12you can make me cleanIt 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 5:12make me clean ... Be cleanThis 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 5:13make me clean ... Be cleanThis 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 5:19they went up to the housetopHouses 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 5:29reclining at the tableThe 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 5:30you eat and drink with ... sinful peopleThe Pharisees and scribes believed that religious people should separate themselves from people they consider to be sinners. The word "you" is plural.
Luk 5:34the wedding attendants of the bridegroom fastFasting is a sign of sadness. The religious leaders understood that the wedding attendants would not fast while the bridegroom was with them.
Luk 5:37the new wine would burst the skinsWhen 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 5:39for he says, 'The old is better.'It may be helpful to add: "and he is therefore not willing to try the new wine"
Luk 6:1rubbing them between their handsThey 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 6:2doing somethingThe 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 6:14The names of the apostles wereLuke wrote a list of the names of the apostles. The ULB uses these words to introduce the list.
Luk 6:16became a traitorIt 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 6:28Bless thoseGod is the one who blesses. This can made explicit. Alternate Translation: "Ask God to bless those"
Luk 6:34to get back the same amountThe law of Moses commanded the Jews not to receive interest on money they loaned to each other.
Luk 6:48built the house's foundation on solid rockdug 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 6:49on top of the ground without a foundationSome 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 7:9not 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 7:25dressed in soft clothesThis refers to expensive clothing. Normal clothing was rough. Alternate Translation: "wearing expensive clothing"
Luk 7:28is greater than he isThe 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 7:39that she is a sinnerSimon 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 7:44You gave me no water for my feetIt 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 7:45You did not give me a kissA good host in that culture would greet his guest with a kiss on the cheek. Simon did not do this.
Luk 7:46anoint my head with oilput oil on my head. This was the custom to welcome an honored guest. Alternate Translation: "welcome me by anointing my head with oil"
Luk 7:47the one who is forgiven littleanyone 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 8:23their boat was filling with waterThe 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 8:42As Jesus was on his waySome 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 8:45the crowds of people ... are pressing in against youBy 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 8:46Someone did touch meIt may be helpful to distinguish this intentional "touch" from the accidental touches of the crowd. Alternate Translation: "Someone deliberately touched me"
Luk 8:46I know that power has gone out from meJesus 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 8:49Do not trouble the teacherThis statement implies that Jesus will not be able to do anything to help now that the girl is dead.
Luk 8:52all were mourning and wailing for herThis 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 8:55Her spirit returnedHer 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 9:9I beheaded John. Who is thisHerod 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 9:9I beheaded JohnHerod's soldiers would have carried out executions. Alternate Translation: "I commanded my soldiers to cut off John's head"
Luk 9:16up to heavenThis refers to looking up, toward the sky. The Jews believed that heaven was located above the sky.
Luk 9:19that one of the prophets from long ago has risenIt 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 9:34they were afraidThese 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 9:35A voice came out of the cloudIt is understood that the voice could only have belonged to God. Alternate Translation: "God spoke to them from the cloud"
Luk 9:53because he had set his face to go to JerusalemThe Samaritans and the Jews hated each other. Therefore the Samaritans would not help Jesus on his journey to Jerusalem, the Jewish capital.
Luk 9:54command fire to come down from heaven and destroy themJames 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 10:12the judgment dayThe disciples would have understood that this refers to the time of final judgment of sinners.
Luk 10:14But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for youIt 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 10:16the one who sent meThis refers to God the Father, who appointed Jesus for this special task. Alternate Translation: "God, who sent me"
Luk 10:17The seventy returnedSome 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 10:23Then he turned around to the disciples and said privatelyThe 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 10:23Blessed are those who see the things that you seeThis 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 10:24and they did not see themThis implies that Jesus was not yet doing those things. Alternate Translation: "but could not see them because I was not doing them yet"
Luk 10:24the things that you hearThis probably refers to the teaching of Jesus. Alternate Translation: "the things that you have heard me say"
Luk 10:24and they did not hear themThis implies that Jesus was not yet teaching. Alternate Translation: "but could not hear them because I had not yet started to teach"
Luk 10:29Who 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 10:31when he saw himwhen 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 10:31he passed by on the other sideIt 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 10:32a Levite ... the other sideThe 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 10:33a certain SamaritanThe Jews despised the Samaritans and would have assumed that he would not help the injured Jewish man.
Luk 10:34pouring oil and wine on themWine 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 10:39sat at the Lord's feetThis was the normal and respectful position for a learner at that time. Alternate Translation: "sat on the floor near Jesus"
Luk 10:42only one thing is necessaryJesus 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 11:6just came in from the roadIt is implied that the visitor has come far from his home. Alternate Translation: "was traveling and just came to my house"
Luk 11:14demon that was muteThe demon has power to prevent people from speaking. Alternate Translation: "demon that caused the man to be unable to speak"
Luk 11:18For you say I cast out demons by BeelzebulFor 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 11:23the one who does not gather with me scattersJesus 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 11:29It seeks a signThe 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 11:31someone greater than Solomon is hereJesus is speaking about himself. Alternate Translation: "I, who am greater than Solomon, am here"
Luk 11:31someone greater than SolomonJesus is speaking about himself. Alternate Translation: "I am greater than Solomon"
Luk 11:32The men of NinevehIt 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 11:32someone greater than Jonah is hereJesus 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 11:37reclinedIt 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 11:38washThe 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 11:39the outside of cups and bowlsWashing of the outside of containers was a part of the ritual practices of the Pharisees.
Luk 11:41Give to the poor what is insideThis 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 11:44without knowing itWhen 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 11:48So you are witnesses and you consentJesus 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 12:5Fear the one who, after ... has authorityThe 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 12:8everyone who confesses me before menWhat 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 12:9he who denies me before menhe 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 12:13divide the inheritance with meIn 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 12:27neither do they spinThe 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 12:35Let your long clothing be tucked in at your beltPeople 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 12:36open the door for himThis refers to the door of the master's house. It was the responsibility of his servants to open it for him.
Luk 12:54When you see a cloud rising ... happensThis condition normally meant rain was coming in Israel.
Luk 12:55When a south wind is blowingThis condition normally meant hot weather was coming in Israel.
Luk 13:1whose blood Pilate mixed with their own sacrificesHere "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 13:4they were worse sinnersThe 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 13:5No, I sayHere "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 13:8put manure on itput 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 13:15HypocritesJesus 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 13:19threw into his gardenplanted in his garden. People planted some kinds of seeds by throwing them so that they scattered in the garden.
Luk 13:21like yeastOnly 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 13:24the narrow doorThe 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 13:24many will want to enter, but will not be able to enterIt is implied that they will not be able to enter because of the difficulty of entering. The next verse explains the difficulty.
Luk 14:14in the resurrection of the justThis refers to the final judgment. Alternate Translation: "when God brings the righteous people back to life"
Luk 14:16A certain man prepared a large dinner and invited manyThe reader should be able to infer that the man probably had his servants prepare the meal and invite the guests.
Luk 14:18The first said to him ... Another said ... another man saidThe 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 14:19The first said to him ... Another said ... another man saidThe 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 14:19five pairs of oxenOxen were used in pairs to pull farming tools. Alternate Translation: "10 oxen to work in my fields"
Luk 14:20The first said to him ... Another said ... another man saidThe 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 14:22The servant saidIt 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 14:29is not able to finishIt 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 15:5lays it across his shouldersThis is the way a shepherd carries a sheep. This could be stated. Alternate Translation: "lays it across his shoulders to carry it home"
Luk 15:16would gladly have eatenwished 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 15:23fattened calfA 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 15:23kill itThe implied information that they were to cook the meat can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "kill it and cook it"
Luk 15:25out in the fieldIt is implied that he was out in the field because he was working there.
Luk 15:27the fattened calfA 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 15:29a young goatA young goat was smaller and less expensive than a fatted calf. Alternate Translation: "even a young goat"
Luk 15:30fattened calfA 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 16:4people will welcome me into their housesThis implies that those people will provide a job, or other things that he needs to live.
Luk 16:16John cameThis refers to John the Baptist. Alternate Translation: "John the Baptist came"
Luk 16:17than for one stroke of a letterA "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 16:22to Abraham's side ... at his sideThis 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 16:23to Abraham's side ... at his sideThis 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 16:29They have Moses and the prophetsIt 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 17:4seven times in the day, and seven timesThe number seven in the Bible is a symbol for completeness. Alternate Translation: "many times in a day, and each time"
Luk 17:8put a belt around your clothes and serve metie 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 17:12They stood far away from himThis was a respectful gesture, because lepers were not allowed to approach other people.
Luk 17:13have mercy on usThey were specifically asking to be healed. Alternate Translation: "please show us mercy by healing us"
Luk 17:14show yourselves to the priestsLepers 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 17:14they were cleansedWhen 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 17:17Then Jesus saidJesus 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 17:20The kingdom of God does not come with careful observingPeople 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 17:22one of the days of the Son of ManThis refers to the kingdom of God. Alternate Translation: "one of the days when the Son of Man will rule as king"
Luk 17:23Look, there! Look, here!This refers to seeking the Messiah. Alternate Translation: "Look, the Messiah is over there! He is over here!"
Luk 17:23do not go out or run after themThe purpose of going out can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "do not go with them to look"
Luk 17:24so will the Son of Man be in his dayThis 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 17:30After the same manner it will beIt will be like that. Alternate Translation: "In the same way people will not be ready"
Luk 17:31returnThey were not to go back to the house to get anything. They were to flee quickly.
Luk 18:11or even like this tax collectorThe 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 18:14this man went back down to his house justifiedHe was justified because God forgave his sin. Alternate Translation: "God forgave the tax collector"
Luk 18:14rather than the otherrather than the other man or "and not the other man." Alternate Translation: "but God did not forgive the Pharisee"
Luk 19:7they all complainedThe Jews hated the tax collectors and did not think any good person should associate with them.
Luk 19:11that the kingdom of God was about to appear immediatelyThe 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 19:12to receive for himself a kingdomThis 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 19:16your mina has made ten minas moreIt 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 19:18Your mina, lord, has made five minasIt 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 19:26everyone who has will be given moreIt 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 19:26from him that has notIt 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 19:45Jesus entered the templeYou 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 19:45entered the templeOnly priests were allowed to enter the temple building. Alternate Translation: "went into the temple courtyard"
Luk 20:6stone uskill 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 20:19they were afraid of the peopleThis 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 20:20to the rule and to the authority of the governorRule 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 20:28have a child for his brotherThe 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 20:34marry and are given in marriageIn 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 20:35will neither marry nor be given in marriageIn 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 20:36Neither can they die anymoreThis is after the resurrection. Alternate Translation: "They will not be able to die anymore"
Luk 20:37in the place concerning the bushin the part of scripture where he wrote about the burning bush or "in the scripture about the burning bush"
Luk 20:38but of the livingbut 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 20:39Some of the scribes answeredSome of the scribes said to Jesus. There were scribes present when the Sadducees were questioning Jesus.
Luk 20:40they did not dare ask him any more questionsthey 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 20:41they sayThe 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 20:44David 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 20:46who desire to walk in long robesLong robes would show that they were important. Alternate Translation: "who like to walk around wearing their important robes"
Luk 21:1giftsYou may need to make explicit what the gifts were. Alternate Translation: "gifts of money"
Luk 21:9the end will not happen immediatelyThis 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 21:23wrath to this peoplethere 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 21:30summer is already nearsummer 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 21:34that day will close on you suddenlyThe 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 21:37in the templeOnly priests were allowed in the temple. Alternate Translation: "at the temple" or "in the temple courtyard"
Luk 22:1Festival of Unleavened BreadThe 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 22:7the Passover lamb had to be sacrificedEach 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 22:34this dayThe 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 22:49strike with the swordThe 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 22:59he is a GalileanThe man could probably tell Peter was from Galilee from the way he talked.
Luk 22:61todayThe 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 22:64Prophesy!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 22:70Then 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 23:3You say soPossible 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 23:7he was under Herod's authorityThe 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 23:12Herod and Pilate had become friends with each other that very dayThe 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 23:13the crowd of peopleIt 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 23:14I, having questioned him before youI 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 23:18Away with this man, and releaseTake 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 23:37If you are the King of the Jews, save yourselfThe 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 23:51with the decision of the Council and their actionWhat 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 23:56prepared spices and ointmentsBecause 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 24:3did not find the body of the Lord JesusYou 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 24:12the linen cloths by themselvesonly 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 24:21who was going to redeem IsraelThe Romans ruled over the Jews. Alternate Translation: "who would free the Israelites from our Roman enemies"
Luk 24:43ate it before themJesus did this to prove that he had a physical body. Spirits would not be able to eat food.
Luk 24:49I am sending you what my Father promisedI will give you what my Father promised to give you. God had promised to give the Holy Spirit. The UDB makes this explicit.
Luk 24:53in the templeOnly priests were allowed into the temple building. Alternate Translation: "in the temple courtyard"
Jhn 1:27who comes after meYou 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 4:25he will explain everything to usThe words "explain everything" imply all that the people need to know. Alternate Translation: "he will tell us everything we need to know"
Jhn 6:1Jesus went awayIt 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 6:21they were willing to receive him into the boatIt is implied that Jesus gets into the boat. Alternate Translation: "they gladly received him into the boat"
Jhn 7:8my time has not yet been fulfilledHere 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 7:22on the Sabbath you circumcise a manJesus implies that the act of circumcision also involves work. Alternate Translation: "you circumcise a male baby on the Sabbath. That is working too"
Jhn 7:24Do not judge according to appearance, but judge righteouslyJesus 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 7:26they say nothing to himThis implies that the Jewish leaders are not opposing Jesus. Alternate Translation: "they say nothing to oppose him"
Jhn 7:28in the templeJesus and the people were actually in the courtyard of the temple. Alternate Translation: "in the temple courtyard"
Jhn 7:39the Spirit had not yet been givenJohn 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 7:40This is indeed the prophetBy 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 7:46Never has anyone spoken like thisThe 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 8:6so that they might have something to accuse him aboutWhat 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 8:13your witness is not trueThe 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 8:16I am not aloneThe 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 8:17the testimony of two men is trueThe 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 8:18the Father who sent me bears witness about meThe 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 8:36if the Son sets you free, you will be truly freeIt 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 8:41You do the works of your fatherJesus implies that their father is the devil. Alternate Translation: "No! You are doing the things that your real father did"
Jhn 8:41We were not born in sexual immoralityHere 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 8:59Then they picked up stones to throw at himThe 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 9:2who 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 9:6made mud with the salivaJesus 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 9:7wash ... washedYou 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 9:29we do not know where this one is fromHere 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 9:30that you do not know where he is fromThe 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 10:8Everyone who came before meThis 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 10:10steal and kill and destroyHere the implied metaphor is "sheep," which represents God's people. Alternate Translation: "steal and kill and destroy the sheep"
Jhn 10:23Jesus was walking in the templeThe 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 10:40beyond the JordanJesus had been on the west side of the Jordan River. Alternate Translation: "to the east side of the Jordan River"
Jhn 10:40he stayed thereJesus remained on the east side of Jordan for a short period of time. Alternate Translation: "Jesus stayed there for several days"
Jhn 11:4This sickness is not to deathJesus 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 11:4instead it is for the glory of God so that the Son of God may be glorified by itJesus 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 11:19about their brotherLazarus was their younger brother. Alternate Translation: "about their younger brother"
Jhn 11:21my brother would not have diedLazarus was the younger brother. Alternate Translation: "my younger brother would still be alive"
Jhn 11:23Your brother will rise againLazarus was the younger brother. Alternate Translation: "Your younger brother will become alive again"
Jhn 11:28she went away and called her sister MaryMary is the younger sister of Martha. Alternate Translation: "she went away and called her younger sister Mary"
Jhn 11:32my brother would not have diedLazarus 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 11:39Martha, the sister of LazarusMartha and Mary were older sisters of Lazarus. Alternate Translation: "Martha, the older sister of Lazarus"
Jhn 11:47What 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 11:48all will believe in himThe 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 11:50than that the whole nation perishesCaiaphas 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 11:54There he stayed with the disciplesJesus and his disciples stayed in Ephraim for a while. Alternate Translation: "There he stayed with his disciples for a short period of time"
Jhn 12:7Allow her to keep what she has for the day of my burialJesus 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 12:8You will always have the poor with youJesus 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 12:8But you will not always have meIn this way, Jesus implies that he will die. Alternate Translation: "But I will not always be here with you"
Jhn 12:11believed in JesusThis 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 12:19Look, you can do nothingThe Pharisees imply here that it might be impossible to stop Jesus. Alternate Translation: "It seems like we can do nothing to stop him"
Jhn 12:20to worship at the festivalJohn implies that these "Greeks" were going to worship God during the Passover. Alternate Translation: "to worship God at the Passover festival"
Jhn 12:23The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorifiedJesus 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 12:25He who loves his life will lose itHere "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 12:25he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal lifeHere 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 12:26where I am, there will my servant also beJesus 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 12:44Jesus cried out and saidHere 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 12:47If 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 worldHere "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 13:11Not all of you are cleanJesus 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 13:13You 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 13:15you should also do just as I did for youJesus 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 13:23lying down at the tableDuring the time of Christ, Jews would often dine together in the Greek style, in which they lay on their sides on low couches.
Jhn 14:6no one comes to the Father except through mePeople 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 14:18leave you aloneHere 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 14:23we will come to him and we will make our home with himThe 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 14:28I am going to the FatherHere Jesus implies that he will return to his Father. Alternate Translation: "I am going back to the Father"
Jhn 14:28the Father is greater than IHere 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 14:30ruler ... is comingHere Jesus implies that Satan is coming to attack him. Alternate Translation: "Satan is coming to attack me"
Jhn 15:5He who remains in me and I in himHere 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 15:7ask whatever you wishJesus implies that believers must ask God to answer their prayers. Alternate Translation: "ask God whatever you wish"
Jhn 15:10If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, as I have kept the commandments of my Father and remain in his loveWhen 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 15:16You did not choose meJesus 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 15:22If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have sin, but now they have no excuse for their sinJesus 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 15:26the Spirit of truthThis is a title for the Holy Spirit. Alternate Translation: "the Spirit who tells the truth about God and me"
Jhn 15:27You are also testifyingHere "testifying" means to tell others about Jesus. Alternate Translation: "You also must tell everyone what you know about me"
Jhn 16:1you will not fall awayHere 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 16:13he will guide you into all the truthThe "truth" refers to spiritual truth. Alternate Translation: "he will teach you all the spiritual truth you need to know"
Jhn 16:13he will say whatever he hearsJesus implies that God the Father will speak to the Spirit. Alternate Translation: "he will say whatever God tells him to say"
Jhn 16:14he will take from what is mine and he will tell it to youHere "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 16:15the Spirit will take from what is mine and he will tell it to youThe 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 16:33so that you will have peace in meHere "peace" refers to inner peace. Alternate Translation: "so that you may have inner peace because of your relationship with me"
Jhn 17:5Father, glorify me ... with the glory that I had with you before the world was madeJesus 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 17:12the son of destructionThis refers to Judas, who betrayed Jesus. Alternate Translation: "the one whom you long ago decided you would destroy"
Jhn 17:15keep them from the evil oneThis refers to Satan. Alternate Translation: "protect them from Satan, the evil one"
Jhn 17:17Set them apart by the truthThe 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 17:24where I amHere "where I am" refers to heaven. Alternate Translation: "with me in heaven"
Jhn 17:24before the creation of the worldHere Jesus refers to the time before creation. Alternate Translation: "before we created the world"
Jhn 18:1where there was a gardenThis was a grove of olive trees. Alternate Translation: "where there was a grove of olive trees"
Jhn 18:5I amThe word "he" is implied in the text. Alternate Translation: "I am he"
Jhn 18:6I amHere the word "he" is not present in the original text, but it is implied. Alternate Translation: "I am he"
Jhn 18:6fell to the groundThe men fell to the ground because of Jesus' power. Alternate Translation: "fell down because of Jesus' power"
Jhn 18:8I amHere the word "he" is not present in the original text, but it is implied. Alternate Translation: "I am he"
Jhn 18:9This was in order to fulfill the word that he saidHere "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 18:12seized Jesus and tied him upThe soldiers tied Jesus' hands to prevent him from escaping. Alternate Translation: "captured Jesus and tied him up to prevent him from escaping"
Jhn 18:18Now the servants and the officers were standing there, and they had made a charcoal fire, for it was cold, and they were warming themselvesThese 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 18:19about his disciples and his teachingHere "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 18:20I have spoken openly to the worldYou 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 18:27Peter then denied againHere 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 18:27immediately the rooster crowedHere 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 18:28Then they led Jesus from CaiaphasHere it is implied that they are leading Jesus from Caiaphas' house. Alternate Translation: "Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas' house"
Jhn 18:28they did not enter the government headquarters so that they would not be defiledPilate 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 18:31It is not lawful for us to put any man to deathAccording 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 18:37bear witness to the truthHere "the truth" refers to the truth about God. Alternate Translation: "tell people the truth about God"
Jhn 19:4I find no guilt in himPilate 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 19:12At this answerHere "this answer" refers to Jesus' answer. Alternate Translation: "When Pilate heard Jesus' answer"
Jhn 19:12Pilate tried to release himThe 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 19:16Then Pilate gave Jesus over to them to be crucifiedHere 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 19:21Then the chief priests of the Jews said to PilateThe 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 19:22What I have written I have writtenPilate 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 19:23also the tunicand they also took his tunic. The soldiers kept the tunic separate and did not divide it. Alternate Translation: "they kept his tunic separate"
Jhn 19:24let us cast lots for it to decide whose it will beThe 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 19:30He bowed his head and gave up his spiritJohn 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 19:35has testified, and his testimony is trueTo "testify" means to tell about something that one has seen. Alternate Translation: "has told the truth about what he has seen"
Jhn 19:35so that you would also believeHere "believe" means to put one's trust in Jesus. Alternate Translation: "so that you will also put your trust in Jesus"
Jhn 19:38if he could take away the body of JesusJohn 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 19:42Because it was the day of preparation for the JewsAccording 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 20:2They took away the Lord out from the tombMary Magdalene thinks that someone has stolen the Lord's body. Alternate Translation: "Someone has taken the Lord's body out of the tomb"
Jhn 20:3went outJohn implies that these disciples were going to the tomb. Alternate Translation: "rushed out to the tomb"
Jhn 20:8he saw and believedWhen 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 20:9they still did not know the scriptureHere 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 20:10went back home againThe disciples continued to stay in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "went back to where they were staying in Jerusalem"
Jhn 20:12She saw two angels in whiteThe angels were wearing white clothing. Alternate Translation: "She saw two angels dressed in white clothing"
Jhn 20:15Sir, if you have taken him awayHere the word "him" refers to Jesus. Alternate Translation: "If you have taken away the body of Jesus"
Jhn 20:15I will take him awayMary Magdalene wants to get Jesus' body and bury it again. Alternate Translation: "I will get the body and bury it again"
Jhn 20:17I will go up to my Father and your Father, and my God and your GodJesus 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 20:18Mary Magdalene came and told the disciplesMary 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 20:19for fear of the JewsHere "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 20:20he showed them his hands and his sideJesus showed the disciples his wounds. Alternate Translation: "he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side"
Jhn 20:27believeHere "believe" means to trust in Jesus. Alternate Translation: "put your trust in me"
Jhn 20:29you have believedThomas believes that Jesus is alive because he has seen him. Alternate Translation: "you have believed that I am alive"
Jhn 20:29who have not seenThis means those who have not seen Jesus. Alternate Translation: "who have not seen me alive"
Jhn 21:6you will find someHere "some" refers to fish. Alternate Translation: "you will catch some fish in your net"
Jhn 21:7threw himself into the seaPeter jumped into the water and swam to shore. Alternate Translation: "jumped into the sea and swam to shore"
Jhn 21:11Simon Peter then went upHere "went up" means Simon Peter had to go back to the boat. Alternate Translation: "So Simon Peter went back to the boat"
Jhn 21:19to indicate with what kind of death Peter would glorify GodHere John implies that Peter would die on a cross. Alternate Translation: "to indicate that Peter would die on a cross to honor God"
Jhn 21:19Follow meHere the word "follow" means "to be a disciple." Alternate Translation: "Keep on being my disciple"
Jhn 21:21Lord, what will this man do?Peter wants to know what will happen to John. Alternate Translation: "Lord, what will happen to this man?"
Jhn 21:24who testifies about these thingsHere "testifies" means that he personally sees something. Alternate Translation: "who has seen all these things"
Jhn 21:24we knowHere "we" refers to those who trust in Jesus. Alternate Translation: "we who trust in Jesus know"
Act 1:9as they were looking upas 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 1:12a Sabbath day's journeyThis 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 1:18the earnings he received for his wickednessthe 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 1:18there he fell headfirst, and his body burst open, and all his intestines poured outThis 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 1:23They put forward two menHere 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 1:24They prayed and saidHere 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 2:15it is only the third hour of the dayIt 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 2:27to see decayHere the word "see" means to experience something. The word "decay" refers to the decomposition of his body after death. Alternate Translation: "to decay"
Act 2:31nor did his flesh see decayHere 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 2:40Save yourselves from this wicked generationThe implication is that God will punish "this wicked generation." Alternate Translation: "Save yourselves from the punishment that these wicked people will suffer"
Act 3:6what I do haveIt is understood that Peter has the ability to heal the man.
Act 4:2They were deeply troubledThey 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 4:13the boldness of Peter and JohnHere 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 4:13realized that they were ordinary, uneducated menThe Jewish leaders "realized" this because of the way Peter and John spoke.
Act 4:17in order that it spreads no furtherHere 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 4:23came to their own peopleThe phrase "their own people" refers to the rest of the believers. Alternate Translation: "went to the other believers"
Act 4:25the peoples imagine useless thingsThese "useless things" consist of plans to oppose God. Alternate Translation: "the peoples imagine useless things against God"
Act 5:3to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back part of the priceThis implies that Ananias had told the apostles that he was giving the entire amount that he had received from selling his land.
Act 5:15his shadow might fall on some of themIt is implied that God would heal them if Peter's shadow touched them.
Act 5:20in the temple ... into the templeThey did not go into the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate Translation: "in the temple courtyard ... into the temple courtyard"
Act 5:21in the temple ... into the templeThey did not go into the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate Translation: "in the temple courtyard ... into the temple courtyard"
Act 5:23we found no one insideThe 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 5:25standing in the templeThey did not go into the part of the temple building where only the priests were allowed. Alternate Translation: "standing in the temple courtyard"
Act 5:38keep away from these men and let them aloneGamaliel is telling the Jewish leaders no to punish the apostles any more or to put them back in jail.
Act 5:42in the temple and from house to houseThey 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 6:5Stephen ... and NicolausThese are Greek names, and suggest that all of the men elected were from the Grecian Jewish group of believers.
Act 6:8Stephen, full of grace and power, was doingThe 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 6:11some men to sayThey were given money to give false testimony. Alternate Translation: "some men to lie and say"
Act 7:8gave Abraham the covenant of circumcisionThe 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 7:9sold him into EgyptThe Jews knew their ancestors sold Joseph to be a slave in Egypt. Alternate Translation: "sold him as a slave in Egypt"
Act 7:11our fathers ... his brothersBoth of these phrases refer to Joseph's older brothers. The UDB makes this explicit.
Act 7:13our fathers ... his brothersBoth of these phrases refer to Joseph's older brothers. The UDB makes this explicit.
Act 7:23visit his brothers, the children of IsraelThis refers to his people, and not just to his family. Alternate Translation: "see how his own people, the children of Israel, were doing"
Act 7:26some IsraelitesThe audience would have known from the account in Exodus that these were two men, but Stephen does not specify that.
Act 7:29General Information:Stephen's audience already knew that Moses had married a Midianite woman when he fled Egypt.
Act 7:29after hearing thisThe 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 7:30When forty years were pastAfter 40 years passed. This was the amount of time Moses had been in Midian. Alternate Translation: "Forty years after Moses fled from Egypt"
Act 7:30an angel appearedStephen's audience knew that God spoke through the angel. The UDB makes this explicit.
Act 7:31he marveled at the sightMoses 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 7:32Moses trembledMoses shook from fear. This can be made clear. Alternate Translation: "Moses trembled with fear"
Act 7:33for the place where you are standing is holy groundThe implied information is that where God is present, the immediate area around God is considered or made holy by God.
Act 7:36during forty yearsStephen'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 7:41they made a calfStephen's audience knew the calf they made was a statue. Alternate Translation: "they made a statue that looked like a calf"
Act 7:43You acceptedIt 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 7:55saw the glory of GodPeople normally experienced the glory of God as a bright light. Alternate Translation: "saw a bright light from God"
Act 8:1except the apostlesThis statement implies that the apostles remained in Jerusalem even though they also experienced this great persecution.
Act 8:3men and womenThis refers to men and women who believed in Jesus.
Act 8:27He had come to Jerusalem to worshipThis 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 8:31He begged Philip to ... sit with himIt is implied here that Philip agreed to travel down the road with him to explain the scriptures.
Act 9:2he might bring them bound to Jerusalemhe 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 9:8when he opened his eyesThis implies that he had closed his eyes because the light was too bright.
Act 9:14authority ... to arrest everyone hereIt is implied that the extent of the power and authority granted Saul was limited to the Jewish people at this point in time.
Act 9:30sent him away to TarsusCaesarea was a seaport. They brothers probably sent Saul to Tarsus by ship.
Act 9:37It came about in those daysThis refers to the time when Peter was in Joppa. This can be stated. Alternate Translation: "It came about while Peter was nearby"
Act 10:4Your prayers and your gifts ... a memorial offering into God's presenceIt 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 10:12all kinds of four-footed animals ... birds of the skyFrom 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 10:14I have never eaten anything that was defiled and uncleanIt 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 10:17stood before the gatestood 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 10:27many people gathered togethermany Gentile people gathered together. It is implied that these people Cornelius had invited were Gentiles.
Act 10:48he commanded them to be baptizedIt 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 11:6four-legged animals of earthFrom 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 11:20spoke also to GreeksThese Greek-speaking people were Gentiles, not Jews. Alternate Translation: "also spoke to Gentiles who spoke Greek"
Act 11:28in the days of ClaudiusLuke's audience would know that Claudius was the emperor of Rome at that time. Alternate Translation: "when Claudius was the Roman emperor"
Act 12:1some who belonged to the churchOnly James and Peter are specified, which implies that these were leaders of the church in Jerusalem.
Act 12:6On the night before Herod was going to bring him out for trialThat 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 12:10After they had passed by the first guard and the secondIt 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 12:20their country received its food from the king's countryThey probably purchased this food. Alternate Translation: "the people of Tyre and Sidon bought all their food from the people that Herod ruled"
Act 12:20received its foodIt is implied that Herod restricted this supply of food because he was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon.
Act 12:25completed their missionThis 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 12:25they returned from JerusalemThey went back to Antioch from Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "Barnabas and Saul returned to Antioch"
Act 13:25I am not the oneJohn was referring to the Messiah, whom they were expecting to come. Alternate Translation: "I am not the Messiah"
Act 13:25one is coming after meThis also refers to the Messiah. Alternate Translation: "The Messiah will soon come"
Act 13:29they took him down from the treeIt 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 13:29from the treefrom the cross. This was another way people at that time referred to the cross.
Act 13:35This is why he also says in another PsalmPaul'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 13:40be carefulIt 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 13:43to continue in the grace of GodIt 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 13:44to hear the word of the LordIt 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 13:46It was necessaryThis implies that God had commanded this be done. Alternate Translation: "God commanded"
Act 13:46we will turn to the Gentileswe 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 14:1spoke in such a wayspoke 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 14:11The gods have come down to usA 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 14:13The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, broughtIt 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 14:19persuaded the crowdsIt 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 15:1Some menSome men. You can make explicit that these men were Jews who believed in Christ.
Act 15:1taught the brothersHere "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 15:19we should not trouble those of the GentilesYou 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 15:20pollution of idolsThis 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 15:20from the meat of strangled animals, and from bloodGod 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 15:21Moses has been proclaimed in every city ... and he is read in the synagogues every SabbathJames 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 15:22the whole churchHere "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 15:27who will tell you the same thing themselves in their own wordsThis 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 15:29bloodThis refers to drinking blood or eating meat from which the blood has not been drained.
Act 15:41he wentThe previous sentence implies that Silas was with Paul. Alternate Translation: "they went" or "Paul and Silas went" or "Paul took Silas and went"
Act 16:3for they all knew that his father was a GreekSince 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 16:12a Roman colonyThis 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 16:19When her masters saw that their opportunity to make money was now goneIt 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 16:29called for lightsThe 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 16:37said to themProbably 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 16:38when they heard that Paul and Silas were Romans, they were afraidTo 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 17:2reasoned with them from the scripturesPaul explained what the scriptures means in order to prove to the Jews that Jesus is the Messiah.
Act 17:5with jealousyIt can be stated explicitly that these Jews were jealous because some of the Jews and Greeks believed Paul's message.
Act 18:9do not be silentIt can be stated explicitly what the Lord wants Paul to speak. Alternate Translation: "do not stop speaking about the gospel"
Act 19:22But he himself stayed in Asia for a whileIt is made explicit in the next few verses that Paul remains in Ephesus.
Act 19:33motioned with his handYou 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 21:21They have been told about you ... not to follow the old customsApparently 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 21:24Take these men and purify yourself with themThey had to make themselves ritually pure so they could worship in the temple.
Act 21:24pay their expenses for thempay for what they will need. The expenses would go toward buying a male and female lamb, a ram, and grain and drink offerings.
Act 21:25they should keep themselves from things sacrificed to idols, from blood, from what is strangledAll 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 21:25from what is strangledThis 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 21:28Besides, he has also brought Greeks into the templeOnly Jewish males were allowed in certain areas of the courtyard of the Jerusalem temple.
Act 21:30the doors were immediately shutThey 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 21:38Are you not then the EgyptianShortly 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 21:40motioned with the hand to the peopleIt can be stated explicitly why Paul motioned with the hand. Alternate Translation: "motioned with his hand for the people to be quiet"
Act 23:5For it is writtenPaul 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 24:5He is a leader of the Nazarene sectThe 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 24:18not with a crowd or an uproarThis 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 24:24a JewessThis means a female Jew. Alternate Translation: "who was a Jew"
Act 26:3questionsYou can make explicit what kinds of questions this means. Alternate Translation: "questions about religious matters"
Act 26:23that Christ must sufferYou can make explicit that Christ must also die. Alternate Translation: "that Christ must suffer and die"
Act 27:5we landed at Myra, a city of LyciaYou 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 27:6found a ship from Alexandria that was going to sail to ItalyIt 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 27:7When we had sailed slowly ... finally arrived with difficultyYou can make explicit that the reason they were sailing slowly and with difficulty was because the wind was blowing against them.
Act 27:8We sailed along the coast with difficultyYou can make explicit that even though the winds were not as strong as before, they were still strong enough to make sailing difficult.
Act 27:21When they had gone long without foodHere "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 27:22there will be no loss of life among youPaul 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 28:4yet justiceThe word "justice" refers to the name of a god that they worshiped. Alternate Translation: "the god called Justice"
Act 28:11General 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 1:1PaulYour 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 1:3who was a descendant of David according to the fleshHere 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 1:11some spiritual gift, in order to strengthen youPaul wants to strengthen the Roman Christians spiritually. Alternate Translation: "some gift that will help you to grow spiritually"
Rom 1:16it is the power of God for salvation for everyone who believesHere "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 1:17The righteous will live by faithHere "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 1:18hold back the truthHere "truth" refers to true information about God. Alternate Translation: "hide the true information about God"
Rom 1:19For God has enlightened themHere "enlightened them" means God has shown them the truth about him. Alternate Translation: "Because God has shown everyone what he is like"
Rom 1:25who worshiped and served the creationHere "creation" refers to what God created. Alternate Translation: "They worshiped things that God created"
Rom 1:28he gave them up to a depraved mindHere "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 1:32that those who practice such thingsHere "practice" refers to continually or habitually doing things that are evil. Alternate Translation: "and that those who keep on doing wicked things"
Rom 1:32who do themHere the verb "do" refers to continuing to do things that are evil. Alternate Translation: "who keep on doing evil things"
Rom 2:1Therefore you are without excuseThe 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 2:1you person, you who judgePaul 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 2:12without the law will also perish without the lawPaul 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 2:12with respect to the law will be judged by the lawGod 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 2:13it is not the hearers of the lawHere "the law" refers to the law of Moses. Alternate Translation: "it is not those who only hear the law of Moses"
Rom 2:14they do not have the lawHere "the law" refers to the law of Moses." Alternate Translation: "they do not actually have the laws that God gave to Moses"
Rom 2:20and that you have in the law the form of knowledge and of the truthThe 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 3:1Then 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 3:2It is great in every wayPaul 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 3:2the Jews were entrusted with revelation from GodHere "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 3:4let God be found to be trueGod will always be true and will keep his promises. Alternate Translation: "God always does what he has promised"
Rom 3:11There is no one who understandsThere is no one who understands what is right. Alternate Translation: "No one really understands what is right"
Rom 3:11There is no one who seeks after GodHere 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 3:12They together have become uselessSince no one does what is good, they are useless to God. Alternate Translation: "Everyone has become useless to God"
Rom 3:22the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus ChristHere "righteousness" means being right with God. Alternate Translation: "being right with God through trusting Jesus Christ"
Rom 3:22For there is no distinctionPaul 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 3:24they are freely justified by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ JesusHere "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 4:11a seal of the righteousness of the faith that he had already possessed when he was in uncircumcisionHere "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 4:14if those who live by the law are to be the heirsHere "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 4:17as it is writtenWhere 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 4:17Abraham was in the presence of him whom he trusted, that is, God, who gives life to the deadHere "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 4:18In hope he believed against hopeThis 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 4:18So will your descendants beThe full promise God gave to Abraham can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "You will have more descendants than you can count"
Rom 5:9Much more, then, now that we are justified by his bloodHere "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 5:13For until the law, sin was in the worldThis 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 5:13but there is no accounting for sin when there is no lawThis 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 5:15For if by the trespass of one the many diedHere "one" refers to Adam. Alternate Translation: "For if by one man's sin, many died"
Rom 5:15how much more did the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, abound for the manyHere "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 5:16For the gift is not like the outcome of that one man's sinHere "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 5:16The judgment followed one trespass and brought condemnation, but the gift ... justificationHere 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 5:16the gift followed many trespasses and brought justificationThis 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 5:18condemnation came to all peopleHere "condemnation" refers to God's punishment. Alternate Translation: "all people deserve God's punishment for sin"
Rom 5:18justification and life for all peopleHere "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 5:20grace abounded even moreHere "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 6:7He who has died is declared righteous with respect to sinHere "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 6:8we have died with ChristHere "died" refers to the fact that believers are no longer controlled by sin.
Rom 6:13But present yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to lifeHere "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 6:14For you are not under lawTo 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 6:14but under graceTo 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 7:6the letterThis refers to the law of Moses. Alternate Translation: "the law of Moses"
Rom 8:1There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ JesusHere "condemnation" refers to punishing people. Alternate Translation: "God will not condemn and punish those who are joined to Christ Jesus"
Rom 8:2the law of the Spirit of life in Christ JesusThis refers to God's Spirit. Alternate Translation: "God's Spirit in Christ Jesus"
Rom 8:10If Christ is in youHow Christ lives in a person could be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "If Christ lives in you through the Holy Spirit"
Rom 8:23waiting for our adoption, the redemption of our bodyHere "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 8:29among many brothersHere "brothers" refers to all believers, both male and female. Alternate Translation: "among many brothers and sisters who belong to the family of God"
Rom 8:30these he also justifiedHere "justified" is in the past tense to emphasize that this will certainly happen. Alternate Translation: "these he also put right with himself"
Rom 8:30these he also glorifiedThe word "glorified" is in the past tense to emphasize that this will certainly happen. Alternate Translation: "these he will also glorify"
Rom 8:37through the one who loved usYou 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 9:23which he had previously prepared for gloryHere "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 9:25As he says also in HoseaHere "he" refers to God. Alternate Translation: "As God says also in the book that Hosea wrote"
Rom 9:29we would be like Sodom, and we would have become like GomorrahGod 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 9:30the righteousness by faithHere "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 9:31did not arrive at itThis 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 9:32by worksThis 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 9:33as it has been writtenYou can indicate that Isaiah wrote this. You can also translate it in an active form. Alternate Translation: "as Isaiah the prophet wrote"
Rom 10:3For they do not know of God's righteousnessHere "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 10:4for righteousness for everyone who believesHere "believes" means "trusts." Alternate Translation: "in order that he may make everyone who trusts in him right before God"
Rom 10:5The man who does the righteousness of the law will live by this righteousnessIn 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 10:12For there is no difference between Jew and GreekPaul 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 10:12he is rich to all who call upon himHere "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 10:19By means of a nation without understandingHere "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 11:6But if it is by gracePaul continues to explain how God's mercy works. Alternate Translation: "But since God's mercy works by grace"
Rom 11:14Perhaps we will save some of themGod will save those who believe. Alternate Translation: "Perhaps some will believe and God will save them"
Rom 11:25in order that you will not be wise in your own thinkingPaul 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 11:28As far as the gospel is concernedYou can make explicit why Paul mentions the gospel. Alternate Translation: "Because the Jews rejected the gospel"
Rom 11:28they are enemies for your sakeYou 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 11:28as far as election is concernedYou can make explicit why Paul mentions election. Alternate Translation: "because God has elected the Jews" or "because God has chosen the Jews"
Rom 11:28they are beloved because of their forefathersYou 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 11:30you have received mercy because of their disobedienceHere mercy means God's undeserved blessings. Alternate Translation: "because the Jews have rejected Jesus, you have received blessings that you did not deserve"
Rom 11:36To him be the glory foreverThis 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 12:1I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of GodHere "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 12:3because of the grace that was given to meHere "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 12:3just as God has given out to each one a certain amount of faithPaul 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 12:8If one's gift is givingHere "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 14:5Let each person be convinced in his own mindYou 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 14:6He who observes the day, observes it for the LordHere "observes" refers to worshiping. Alternate Translation: "The person who worships on a certain day does it to honor the Lord"
Rom 14:7For none of us lives for himselfHere "lives for himself" means to live only to please oneself. Alternate Translation: "None of us should live merely to please ourselves"
Rom 14:7none dies for himselfThis means one's death affects other people. Alternate Translation: "none of us should think that when we die, it affects only us"
Rom 14:11As I liveThis phrase is used to start an oath or solemn promise. Alternate Translation: "You can be certain that this is true"
Rom 14:14Only for him who considers anything to be unclean, for him it is uncleanPaul 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 14:17For the kingdom of God is not about food and drink, but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy SpiritPaul 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 14:19let us pursue the things of peace and the things that build up one anotherHere "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 14:20Do not destroy the work of God because of foodYou 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 14:20but it is evil for that person who eats and causes him to stumbleHere 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 14:23because it is not from faithAnything 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 14:23whatever is not from faith is sinAnything 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 15:1we who are strongHere "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 15:1the weakHere "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 15:2to build him upBy this, Paul means to strengthen someone's faith. Alternate Translation: "to strengthen his faith"
Rom 15:3it was just as it is writtenHere 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 15:4in order that through patience and through encouragement of the scriptures we would have certain hopeHere "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 15:8the promises given to the fathersHere "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 15:10with his peopleThis refers to God's people. You can make this explicit in your translation. Alternate Translation: "with the people of God"
Rom 15:12in him the Gentiles will have hopeHere "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 15:14I myself am also convinced about you, my brothersPaul 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 15:14also able to exhort one anotherHere "exhort" means to teach. Alternate Translation: "also able to teach each other"
Rom 15:20In this way, my desire has been to proclaim the gospel, but not where Christ is known by namePaul 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 15:23I no longer have any place in these regionsPaul 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 15:24and to be helped by you along my journeyHere 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 15:29I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of ChristThis 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 15:31that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the believersHere 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 15:33May the God of peaceThe "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 16:2receive her in the LordPaul encourages the Roman believers to welcome Phoebe as a fellow believer. Alternate Translation: "welcome her because we all belong to the Lord"
Rom 16:3my fellow workers in Christ JesusPaul's "fellow workers" are people who also tell others about Jesus. Alternate Translation: "who work with me to tell people about Christ Jesus"
Rom 16:11who are in the LordThis refers to those who trust in Jesus. Alternate Translation: "who are believers" or "who belong to the Lord"
Rom 16:17who are causing the divisions and stumblingThis 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 16:27To the only wise God ... be glory forever. AmenHere "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 3:2you are not yet readyIt 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 6:18immorality! Every other sin that a person commits is outside the body, butPossible 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 7:28I want to spare you from thisThe 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 8:4We know that an idol in this world is nothing and that there is no God but onePaul 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 11:26until he comesWhere Jesus comes to can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "until Jesus comes back to the earth"
1Co 11:30some of youIf 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 15:31my boasting in you, which I have in Christ Jesus our LordPaul 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 1:17Do 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 1:19For 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 1:20all the promises of God are "Yes" in himThis means that Jesus guarantees all of God's promises. Alternate Translation: "all the promises of God are guaranteed in Jesus Christ"
2Co 2:3I wrote as I didThis 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 2:9you are obedient in everythingPossible meanings are 1) "you are obedient to God in everything" or 2) "you are obedient in everything that I have taught you"
2Co 3:5to claim anything as coming from usHere 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 3:7the service that producedthe 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 3:8the service that the Spirit doesthe 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 3:9the service of condemnationthe 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 3:9the service of righteousnessthe 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 3:13the ending of a glory that was passing awayThe refers to the glory that shined on Moses' face. Alternate Translation: "the glory on Moses' face as it faded away completely"
2Co 4:1and just as we have received mercyThis 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 4:16outwardly we are wasting awayThis refers to their physical bodies decaying and dying. Alternate Translation: "our physical bodies are getting weak and dying"
2Co 4:16inwardly we are being renewed day by dayThis refers to their inward, spiritual lives getting stronger. Alternate Translation: "our spiritual beings are being strengthened day by day"
2Co 5:11we persuade peoplePossible meanings are 1) "we persuade people of the truth of the gospel" or 2) "we persuade people that we are legitimate apostles."
2Co 5:21so that we might become the righteousness of God in himThe 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 6:1Working togetherPaul is implying that he and Timothy are working with God. Alternate Translation: "Working together with God"
2Co 6:2For he saysFor God says. This introduces a quotation from the prophet Isaiah. Alternate Translation: "For God says in scripture"
2Co 7:5by conflicts on the outside and fears on the insidePossible 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 7:7by the comfort that Titus had received from youPaul received comfort from knowing that the Corinthians had comforted Titus. Alternate Translation: "by learning about the comfort that Titus had received from you"
2Co 7:10Worldly sorrow, however, brings about deathThis 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 8:4this ministry to the believersPaul is referring to providing money to the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "this ministry of providing for the believers in Jerusalem"
2Co 8:6who had already begun this taskPaul 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 8:6to complete among you this act of graceTitus 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 8:8by comparing it to the eagerness of other peoplePaul is encouraging the Corinthians to give generously by comparing them with the generosity of the Macedonian churches.
2Co 8:10In this matterThis refers to their collecting money to give to the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "With regard to the collection"
2Co 8:13For this taskThis refers to collecting money for the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate Translation: "For this task of collecting money"
2Co 8:17For he not only accepted our appealPaul 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 9:1the ministry for the believersThis 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 9:11This will bring about thanksgiving to God through usThe 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 9:12For carrying out this serviceHere 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 11:8I could serve youThe full meaning of this can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "I could serve you at no cost"
2Co 11:9In everything I have kept myself from being a burden to youI 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 11:26in danger from false brothersThe 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 12:14I want youThe full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "What I want is that you love and accept me"
Gal 2:4to make us slavesto 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 2:10remember the poorYou 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 2:12He was afraid of those who were demanding circumcisionThe 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 3:4Have you suffered so many things for nothingIt 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 3:5by hearing with faithYour 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 3:11Now it is clearWhat is clear can be stated explicitly. AT "The scriptures are clear" or "The scriptures teach clearly"
Gal 3:11no one is justified before God by the lawPaul 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 5:1For freedom Christ has set us freeIt 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 5:4you no longer experience graceWho that grace comes from can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "God will not be gracious to you"
Gal 5:8him who calls youWhat he calls them to can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "the one who calls you to be his people"
Gal 5:13an opportunity for the sinful natureThe 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 3:12access with confidenceIt 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 3:14For this reasonYou may need to make explicit what the reason is. Alternate Translation: "Because God has done all this for you"
Eph 4:12He gave these officesThe 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 5:28as their own bodiesThat people love their own bodies may be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "as husbands love their own bodies"
Eph 6:12against the powers over this present darknessHere 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 6:20so that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speakThe 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 1:9in knowledge and all understandingHere "understanding" refers to understanding about God. This can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "as you learn and understand more about what pleases God"
Php 1:12that what has happened to mePaul 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 2:27sorrow upon sorrowThe 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 3:1and it keeps you safeHere "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 3:8now I countThe 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 4:12I know what it is to be poor ... to have plentyPaul knows how to live happily having either no possessions or many possessions.
Php 4:18even morePaul means plenty of the things that he needs for himself.
Col 1:28so that we may present every personYou may need to make explicit to whom they will present every person. Alternate Translation: "so that we may present to God every person"
Col 3:11Christ is all, and is in allNothing is excluded or left out of the rule of Christ. Alternate Translation: "Christ is all important and lives in all his people"
1Th 1:1Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy to the churchThe UDB makes clear that it was Paul who wrote this letter.
1Th 2:4We speakPaul is referring to preaching the gospel message.
1Th 3:3we have been appointedPaul assumes that everyone knows that it was God who appointed them. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "God has appointed us"
1Th 3:5I sentIt is implied that Paul sent Timothy. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "I sent Timothy"
1Th 3:6the good news of your faithIt is understood that this refers to faith in Christ. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "a good report of your faith"
1Th 3:7because of your faithThis refers to faith in Christ. This can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "because of your faith in Christ"
1Th 4:6the Lord is an avengerThis can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "the Lord will punish the one who transgressed and will defend the one who was wronged"
1Th 4:11take care of your own responsibilitiesdo 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 4:13like the rest who do not have hopelike 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 4:16the dead in Christ will rise firstThe "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 2:15whether by word or by our letterBy 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 3:16May the Lord of peace himself give youYou 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 1:3a different doctrineThe implied information can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "a different doctrine from what we teach"
1Ti 2:6as the testimony at the right timeIt 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 3:13a good standingThe implied meaning may be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "a good reputation among other believers"
1Ti 4:3forbid to marryIt is implied that they will forbid believers to marry. Alternate Translation: "forbid believers to marry"
1Ti 4:3to receive foodsIt 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 5:23You should no longer drink waterIt 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 6:1Let all who areIt is implied that Paul is speaking about believers. Alternate Translation: "Let all who are believers"
1Ti 6:13before God, who causes all things to livein 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 6:13before Christ Jesus, who spoke ... Pilatein 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 6:15God will reveal Christ's appearingIt is implied that God will reveal Jesus. Alternate Translation: "God will reveal Jesus"
2Ti 2:5as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes by the rulesPaul is implicitly speaking of Christ's servants as if they were athletes.
2Ti 4:1this solemn command before God and Christ Jesusthis 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 4:13especially the parchmentsThis may refer to a specific type of scroll. Alternate Translation: "especially those made from animal skins"
Tit 1:6the husband of one wifeThis 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 2:1But you, speak what fitsPaul 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 2:14gave himself for usThis refers to Jesus dying willingly. Alternate Translation: "gave himself to die for us"
Tit 2:15give correction with all authorityThis statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "Correct with all authority those people who do not do these things"
Tit 2:15disregard youThis statement can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "refuse to listen to your words" or "refuse to respect you"
Phm 1:13for the sake of the gospelPaul was in prison because he preached the gospel publicly. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "because I preach the gospel"
Phm 1:19you owe me your own selfyou 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 2:2For if the message that was spoken through the angelsThe 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 2:11have one sourceWho that source is can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "have one source, God himself" or "have the same Father"
Heb 6:11to the endThe implicit meaning can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "to the end of your lives"
Heb 7:1Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kingsThis 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 7:20And 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 7:25Therefore heYou can make explicit what "Therefore" implies. Alternate Translation: "Because Christ is our high priest who lives forever, he"
Heb 8:5was about to construct the tabernacleMoses 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 8:5on the mountainYou can make explicit that "mountain" refers to Mount Sinai. Alternate Translation: "on Mount Sinai"
Heb 9:4Aaron's rod that buddedThis 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 9:22forgivenessYou can state explicitly the implied meaning. Alternate Translation: "forgiveness of the sins of the people"
Heb 10:17Their sins and lawless deeds I will remember no longer." NowI 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 10:18Their sins and lawless deeds I will remember no longer." NowI 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 10:25Let us not stop meeting togetherYou can make explicit that the people met to worship. Alternate Translation: "Let us not stop coming together to worship"
Heb 10:26the truthThe truth about God.
Heb 10:26a sacrifice for sins no longer existsNo 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 10:27of judgmentOf God's judgment, that is, that God will judge.
Heb 10:28of two or three witnessesIt is implied that this means "of at least two or three witness."
Heb 10:37For in a very little whileYou can make this explicit. Alternate Translation: "As God said in the scriptures, 'For in a very little while"
Heb 11:2the ancestorsThe author is speaking to the Hebrews about Hebrew ancestors. Alternate Translation: "our ancestors"
Heb 11:22instructed them about his bonesJoseph 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 11:28the sprinkling of the bloodThis 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 12:18For you have not come to a mountain that can be touchedThe 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 12:25if they did not escapeThe implicit information can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "if the people of Israel did not escape judgment"
Heb 13:6The Lord is my helper ... do to meThis is a quotation from the book of Psalms in the Old Testament.
Jas 1:1James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus ChristThe 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 1:21save your soulsWhat a person is saved from can be made explicit. Alternate Translation: "save you from God's judgment"
Jas 1:24then goes away and immediately forgets what he was likeIt 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 1:25the perfect law of freedomThe 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 2:6drag you to courtforcibly take you to court to accuse you in front of judges
Jas 2:16be filledThe thing that fills them is food. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate Translation: "be filled with food" or "have enough to eat"
Jas 3:1we who teach will be judged more strictlyThis 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 4:6But God gives more graceHow 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 5:1you who are richPossible 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 2:6a cornerstone, chosen and valuableGod is the one who chose the stone. Alternate Translation: "a most important cornerstone, which I have chosen"
1Pe 2:8A stone of stumbling and a rock that makes them fallThese 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 2:12on the day of his comingon 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 3:7Do thisHere "this" refers to the ways husbands should treat their wives. Alternate Translation: "Live with your wives in this way"
1Pe 3:9continue to blessYou can clarify the object of blessing. Alternate Translation: "continue to bless those who do evil to you or insult you"
1Pe 3:10General Information:In these verses Peter quotes from the Psalms.
1Pe 4:10As each one of you has received a giftThis 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 1:1to those who have received the same precious faithThat 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 1:2May grace and peace increase in measureGod is the one who will give grace and peace to believers. Alternate Translation: "May God increase your grace and your peace"
2Pe 1:5For this reasonThis refers to what Peter has just said in the previous verses. Alternate Translation: "Because of what God has done"
2Pe 1:19For we have this prophetic word made more sureThe 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 1:19this prophetic word madeThis refers to the Old Testament. Alternate Translation: "the scriptures, which the prophets spoke, made"
2Pe 2:18people who try to escape from those who live in errorThis 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 3:3proceed according to their own desiresHere the word "desires" refers to sinful desires that are opposed to God's will. Alternate Translation: "live according to their own sinful desires"
2Pe 3:15consider the patience of our Lord to be salvationBecause 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 1:10we make him out to be a liarIt 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 2:1we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the one who is righteousThe 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 2:7from the beginningHere, "beginning" refers to when they decided to follow Christ. Alternate Translation: "from when you first believed in Christ"
1Jn 2:20the Holy OneThis refers to Jesus. Alternate Translation: "Jesus, the Holy One"
1Jn 2:24let what you have heard from the beginning remain in youremember 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 5:9If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greaterThe 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 1:1From the elder to the chosen lady and her childrenThis 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 1:5but one that we have had from the beginningHere, "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 1:1The elderThis 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 2:19your love and faith and service and your patient enduranceThe 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 2:22unless they repent of her deedsThis 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 2:28Just as I have received from my FatherSome 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 3:3what you have received and heardThis refers to God's word, which they believed. Alternate Translation: "God's word that you heard and the truth that you believed"
Rev 3:11I am coming soonIt is understood that he is coming in order to judge. Alternate Translation: "I am coming to judge soon"
Rev 9:3power like that of scorpionsScorpions have the ability to sting and poison other animals and people. Alternate Translation: "the ability to sting people as scorpions do"
Rev 11:4the two olive trees and the two lampstands thatJohn 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 11:17you have taken your great powerWhat 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 13:10If anyone is to be takenThis 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 13:17It was impossible for anyone to buy or sell unless he had the mark of the beastPeople 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 15:2who had been victorious over the beast and his imageHow they were victorious can be stated clearly. Alternate Translation: "who had been victorious over the beast and his image by not worshiping them"
Rev 15:2over the number representing his nameHow 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 15:7seven golden bowls full of the wrath of GodThe 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 16:1bowls of God's wrathThe 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 16:15Look! I am coming ... his shameful conditionThis 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 17:1on many watersIf you need to, you can use a more specific word for the kind of water. Alternate Translation: "on many rivers"
Rev 17:5Babylon the greatIf 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 17:15The watersIf 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 19:5you who fear himHere "fear" does not mean to be afraid of God, but to honor him. Alternate Translation: "all you who honor him"
Rev 19:10for the testimony about Jesus is the spirit of prophecyHere "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 19:11It is with justice that he judges and wages warHere "justice" refers to what is right. Alternate Translation: "He judges all people and wages war according to what is right"
Rev 20:3sealed it over himThe angel sealed the pit to keep anyone from opening it. Alternate Translation: "sealed it to prevent anyone from opening it"
Rev 22:6General 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 22:7I 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 22:10Do not seal up ... this bookTo 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 22:17Come!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!"