Recommended
If you like the Message Bible but would rather listen while you are doing something else, you will love this. Reader does not have much of a detectable accent and is not monotone. Easy to listen to but will not put you to sleep.
The Living Word- in a form that's ALIVE!
»The Message« has brought life again to my Bible reading/study. I strongly suggest this translation to anyone who has a desire to know God more deeply. It's also an excellent »renewal« tool: if you've lost most of the fun/wonder of reading/hearing the Bible, or if you're looking for new challenges in your walk, I'd unreservedly recommend The Message.
Having it on tape/CD is GREAT- I can consume it as I drive, etc. And, in addition, HEARING the Word can sometimes affect me differently than reading it.
I'll have to disagree with the AudioFile review above: the comment about Kelly Ryan Dolan sounding like an »overzealous youth minister talking to uninterested teenagers« is shallow, in my opinion. The energy that's in the narration has grown on me, until now I wouldn't have it any other way. Listening to Mr. Dolan read it, I am often reminded that I should be hearing God's Word as fresh, and IMPORTANT- and that is exactly the way he reads it.
I also disagree with the reviewer's comment that »The writing is also overwrought, using language that condescends to listeners rather than speaking to them with wisdom and respect.« In contrast, I find the language UNstilted and excellent at getting across the heart-level intent. To me, it's the Word spoken as it was originally- in the vernacular of the time. Mr. Robertson is brave enough to use words like »whore« when a whore is meant- and that is refreshing.
Having an audio recording of The Message (or even just parts of it, as in this version) has been a real asset in my walk with Jesus. With it, I'm able to hear the Word almost anywhere: in the car, in my living room, through head phones at work … and to hear it in a way that is full of life, and challenging.
I personally think that the translator and narrator of this recording are a uniquely effective combination. In my opinion, the audio version of The Message is something that is as essential, if not MORE essential, than a concordance. Its worth to me is incalculable. Jim Peak- Seattle, WA.