Interview with Dr. Thomas Schreiner: The Christian Standard Bible

I recently had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Thomas Schreiner about the Christian Standard Bible (CSB). He serves as the co-chair of the translation committee and is the professor of New Testament Interpretation and Biblical Theology at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is an excellent biblical scholar and a faithful follower of Jesus. I heartily commend his work to you. You can find links to his books and publications here: https://www.sbts.edu/academics/faculty/thomas-r-schreiner/

In this video we discuss how the CSB blends accuracy to the original languages with readability and clarity for a modern world. This makes it a great translation for new believers intimidated by the Bible, mature believers looking for fresh insights into God’s Word, or churches that want a pew Bible that is both accurate and contemporary. We cover fun stuff like why Bible translation methods matter, why people who don’t like change should still check out the CSB, and why the CSB chose to translate adelphoi as “brothers and sisters,” rather than the standard “brothers.” We were having such a great time that the clock got away from us, but I’ve outlined the video below so you can jump in wherever. Enjoy!

Introductions - 00:01

Why did we need a revision of the Holman Christian Standard Bible? - 00:55

Could you explain how you brought accuracy and readability together in the CSB? - 02:44

Could you tell us about the translation method used (optimal equivalence) & why a good Bible translation method matters? - 04:55

For people who struggle with change, what’s your compelling case to test out the CSB? - 08:19

Could you give one example from Scripture where the CSB provides more clarity/readability than some translations and one where it provides more accuracy? - 12:11 (see Philippians 2:6 and John 3:16)

Small excursus on rendering adelphoi as “brothers and sisters” rather than the traditional “brothers.” - 14:41

What’s your final appeal to try the CSB this year? - 17:30

Wrap-up - 18:59

As promised, here’s the link again to the Christian Standard Bible website - https://csbible.com

Note: I have no affiliation with the Christian Standard Bible and receive no compensation for my recommendation or endorsement. All opinions expressed on this site are truly my own.