The King James Version As Read By Jerry Fite
About The King James Version Of The Bible
by
Tom M. Roberts
In 1604, King James I of England authorized a new translation of the Bible into English, which was completed in 1611. This was just 85 years after the first translation of the New Testament into English appeared (Tyndale, 1526). The Authorized Version (AV), commonly known as the King James Version (KJV), quickly became the standard for English-speaking Protestants. Its flowing language and prose rhythm have profoundly influenced literature for the past 400 years. While newer versions, such as the New King James Version (NKJV) and ASV, offer more modern English words, they often lack the unique rhythm and poetic approach of the KJV.
Despite its popularity, the KJV did have some translation flaws. For instance, in Acts 12:3, the word "Easter" appears when it should refer to the "Days of Unleavened Bread." A thorough study of the context confirms this mistake. King James provided the translators with instructions intended to ensure that the new version aligned with the ecclesiology of the Church of England, hence the inclusion of Easter, which was part of their theology.
The translation involved six panels of translators, totaling 47 men, who divided the work among themselves; three panels worked on the Old Testament, while two focused on the New Testament. Completing this monumental task took a total of seven years. Although a panel included the apocrypha, it has not been assigned a scriptural place in the final work.
Many Bible readers now prefer newer versions due to their more modern vernacular, yet the King James Version remains a best seller and holds a legitimate place on a believer’s shelf. In addition, Bible audio recordings of the KJV, often narrated by voices like Jerry Fite's, continue to bring this classic text to life for many enthusiasts.
About Jerry Fite
Jerry Fite has been preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ full time for over forty-three years. He was born in Dallas, Texas, to Harold and Norma Fite on June 14, 1950. Being a son of a preacher, he experienced more moves than most. However, he was able to live in Fort Worth, Texas, from 5th grade to a year of college. Jerry married his high school sweetheart, Kathy Fite, on January 9, 1970. Together, they have been blessed with two children and four grandchildren.
While Texas is where Jerry Fite has lived all his life, he has preached throughout the states in Gospel Meetings. In the 1990s, he labored in preaching Christ in Gospel efforts in Lithuania. Additionally, Jerry has contributed articles to various religious publications over the years, and he is known for his work with Bible audio recordings that feature the King James Version. Currently, he is living in Pasadena, Texas, where he has worked with the Parkview church of Christ for forty years.
He can be reached via email at: jbfite@flash.net