The marketing guys at IBS, publisher of the NIV, say that the NIV is easier to read, right? In the scripture comparison that we're about to examine we will find the word "emasculate" in the NIV. I didn't know what this word meant until today. It incorrectly replaces the phrase "cut off" in the authorized King James Bible. Excuse me, I'm jumping ahead of myself...

Our scripture passage is Galatians 5:12. The context: the apostle Paul is speaking to the Galatians concerning false doctrine brought in by a troublemaker (ref v. 10). What did the Apostle Paul want to happen to this person?

The Authorized King James:

Galatians 5:12, I would they were even cut off which trouble you. (troublemakers, begone)

Now, the New International Version:

Galatians 5:12, As for those agitators, I wish they would go the whole way and emasculate themselves! (troublemakers, cut your genitals off!)

Which one do you think the great apostle Paul said? Is wishing someone would cut off their genitals consistent with a godly, sold-out Christian like Paul? What a terrifying, bloody, horrible thing to say to someone. But you never know what you're going to get with the NIV--I almost couldn't believe this one. Last note: the NASB and the RSV say that the troublemakers should "mutilate themselves"!!!!