20 Facts About King James Only Movement

What is the King James Only Movement?

The King James Only movement is a theological stance within Christianity that holds the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible as the only true and reliable English translation. This belief has sparked much debate and controversy among Christians.

1. Definition and Beliefs: The King James Only movement asserts that the KJV is the only reliable and authoritative English translation of the Bible. Adherents believe that the KJV is superior to all other translations because it is based on the Textus Receptus, a Greek New Testament manuscript compilation completed in the 1500s.

2. Textual Basis: Proponents argue that the Textus Receptus is closer to the original manuscripts than the Alexandrian text-type or critical texts used in modern translations. This preference for the Byzantine text-type is a central tenet of their belief.

Historical Context and Influences

Understanding the historical background and key figures helps explain why the King James Only movement gained traction.

3. Historical Context: The movement gained significant traction in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly through the writings of Dean Burgon, who argued against the Revised Version (RV) of 1881 and advocated for the Textus Receptus.

4. Dean Burgon's Influence: Dean Burgon is often considered a key figure in the KJV Only movement. He rejected the eclectic Greek New Testament of Westcott and Hort, advocating instead for the Traditional Text of the church, the Textus Receptus. His book, The Revision Revised, was influential in shaping the movement's views.

Modern Translations and Controversies

The publication of new translations has been a significant point of contention for KJV Only advocates.

5. Publication of New Translations: The publication of new English versions, such as the Revised Standard Version (RSV) in 1946, marked a significant turning point for the KJV Only movement. These new translations were based on critical texts and challenged the dominance of the KJV.

6. Arguments Against Modern Translations: KJV Only advocates argue that modern translations are based on corrupted manuscripts and are therefore unreliable. They claim that the translators of these versions have a liberal or even heretical agenda.

Criticisms and Challenges

Critics of the King James Only movement raise several issues, from the archaic language of the KJV to the theological implications of their beliefs.

7. Criticism of the KJV: Critics of the KJV Only movement point out that the KJV contains archaic language and expressions that are often confusing to modern readers. They argue that updating the KJV to modern English would not constitute heresy but rather make the Bible more accessible to a wider audience.

8. Archaisms in the KJV: The KJV includes expressions like "vain janglings" (1 Timothy 1:6), "superfluity of naughtiness" (James 1:21), and "abusers of themselves with mankind" (1 Corinthians 6:9), which are difficult to understand in contemporary English.

Theological Implications and Variations

The movement is not monolithic, and different groups within it hold varying beliefs about the KJV.

9. Theological Implications: Some KJV Only advocates believe that the KJV is not just a translation but an inspired version of the Bible. This view is not universally held within the movement but is a significant aspect of its theology.

10. Variations Within the Movement: The movement is not monolithic, with different groups and individuals holding varying degrees of commitment to the KJV. Some claim that the KJV is a "new revelation," while others see it as the final authority in English-speaking churches.

Classifications and Criticisms

Different classifications within the movement and criticisms from outside it highlight the complexity of King James Onlyism.

11. James White's Classification: Christian apologist James White has divided the KJV Only movement into five main classifications, each with its own distinct characteristics and theological emphases.

12. Manual of the Bible Missionary Church: The Manual of the Bible Missionary Church, a Methodist denomination in the conservative holiness movement, endorses the use of the Authorized Version (King James Version) as the final authority in English-speaking churches and schools.

13. Criticism of KJV Onlyism: Critics argue that KJV Onlyism is based on faulty assumptions rather than solid evidence. They point out that the movement's tenacious defense of the KJV as the only legitimate English-language translation is a form of legalistic Christianity.

Conspiracy Theories and Historical Context

Some KJV Only advocates believe in conspiracy theories about modern translations, adding another layer of complexity to the movement.

14. Conspiracy Theories: The KJV Only controversy often involves conspiracy theories claiming that all modern translations of Scripture are based on tainted manuscripts and that their translators are driven by a liberal Protestant or Roman Catholic agenda.

15. Historical Context of Bible Translations: The need for Bible translations arose because the original manuscripts were written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Translations into various languages have been necessary to make the Bible accessible to different cultures and peoples.

Modern Translations and Idolatry

Critics argue that modern translations are closer to the original texts and that KJV Onlyism can border on idolatry.

16. Modern Translations and Manuscripts: Modern translations like the NASB and ESV are based on more manuscripts and older manuscripts than the KJV. This makes them closer to the original text, according to proponents of these translations.

17. Idolatry and Commitment to a Translation: Critics argue that KJV Onlyism is idolatrous because it commits to a specific translation rather than a text type. This attachment to a particular version can hinder the comprehension of God's word and create unnecessary barriers to understanding.

Emotional Attachment and Comparison

The emotional attachment to the KJV and the insistence on its use can limit understanding of scripture.

18. Emotional Attachment and Assumptions: The KJV Only movement is largely based on emotional attachment and assumptions rather than solid evidence. This emotional attachment can lead to a rejection of updates and revisions that would make the Bible more understandable.

19. Comparison with Other Translations: Comparing different translations can often clarify the meaning of a verse. However, KJV Only advocates often insist on using only the KJV, which can limit their understanding of scripture.

20. Conclusion and Recommendations: Ultimately, the KJV Only movement's insistence on sticking to a 400-year-old translation goes against the central tenets of the Protestant Reformation, which aimed to make the Bible understandable to the common man. It is recommended to read modern reputable translations to better comprehend God's word without being hindered by the KJV Only camp.

Final Thoughts on the King James Only Movement

The King James Only movement is a fascinating yet controversial part of Christian history. It champions the King James Version as the sole authoritative English Bible translation, rooted in its reliance on the Textus Receptus. While it has passionate supporters, critics argue that its stance is based more on emotion and tradition than solid evidence. The movement's rejection of modern translations can limit understanding and accessibility of the Bible for contemporary readers. Despite its complexities, the movement highlights the deep connection many have with the KJV. Understanding these dynamics helps navigate the broader conversation about Bible translations and their role in faith communities. Whether one aligns with the movement or not, it underscores the importance of making the Bible accessible and understandable for all.