Adoption of NASB as the Recommended English Bible Translation

The 10-2 World Delegates Conference (2010) initially passed a motion to adopt the NKJV as the unified English Bible translation for publications and to strongly recommend its use in sermons. The 12-1 World Delegates Conference (2017) subsequently passed another motion to rescind the 2010 resolution and establish a committee to research other suitable English translations.

The 14-1 World Delegates Conference (2025) endorsed the resolution of the IA Truth Research Committee to adopt the NASB as the recommended English Bible translation for use in church services and publications.

The IA Truth Research Committee has provided the rationale and additional information as follows:

a. The NASB translation is based on manuscripts that are closer to the original, thus
providing a more accurate understanding of certain Bible passages.
b. The NASB aims for formal equivalence, the goal of which is to accurately preserve
both the meaning of words of the original languages as well as their forms and
sentence structure.
c. It is helpful to also reference other good translations, such as ESV, CSB, and NET
for a fuller understanding of the original meaning.
d. The current edition of NASB is the 2020 version.
e. The Lockman Foundation, the publisher of the NASB, has published various printed
formats of the Bible that may be readily purchased online.

The NASB (2020 Edition) has been added to the eRhema Bible Web App (bible.tjc.org). The other English translations will continue to be available in the Bible App.

The NASB (2020 Edition) has been added to the Service App (service.tjc.org).
Starting on January 1, 2026, NASB will be the default English Bible version on the Service App. NKJV will continue to be available until December 31, 2026, to allow a transition period.

Please share with all local churches to transition to use the NASB as the recommended English Bible version in church services and publications as a general guidance.

In addition, the USGA has prepared an adoption plan for the reference of all US churches and houses of prayer. Kindly refer to the adoption plan table for implementation.

For any questions, please email contact@tjc.org.

Thank you very much for your cooperation!