The “Secrets” of the King James Bible. You Didn’t Know This!

In the dim glow of a candlelit chamber, William Tyndale bent over his desk, carefully inscribing the sacred words of Scripture into English. He knew the risk he was taking—translating the Bible into the common tongue was forbidden by the church, which insisted that only Latin held divine authority. But Tyndale was a man driven by conviction, believing that every person should have direct access to the word of God.

His work, however, was seen as a threat to the religious and political establishment. The church feared that if the common people could read the Bible for themselves, they would no longer need priests to interpret it for them. In 1536, Tyndale was arrested, convicted of heresy, and executed. His final words were a plea: “Lord, open the King of England’s eyes.”

Little did he know, his translation would become the foundation of the most famous English Bible of all time—the King James Version (KJV). Nearly a century later, when King James I of England commissioned a new English translation in 1604, the scholars assigned to the task relied heavily on Tyndale’s work. In fact, an estimated 80-90% of the King James Bible was drawn directly from Tyndale’s words, yet he had died a condemned man, while the KJV would go on to become the “authorized” version of Scripture.

But the King James Bible was not a purely spiritual endeavor. King James himself sought a translation that would solidify his authority over both church and state. Some words and phrases were deliberately altered to support his political and doctrinal goals. For example, the Greek word ekklesia, which originally meant “assembly” or “congregation,” was translated as “church” to reinforce the church’s hierarchical structure.

The original 1611 edition of the KJV also included the Apocrypha, a collection of books that provided historical and theological context. However, as Protestant influence grew in the 1800s, these books were removed from most editions, leaving behind the version familiar to modern readers.

Despite what many believe, King James himself did not translate the Bible. The work was carried out by 47 scholars, who labored for years to produce a text that would be acceptable to the king and the Church of England. His motivation for commissioning the translation was not purely religious but also political—he hoped to unify the kingdom under a single Bible, reducing religious conflicts that threatened his rule.

Thus, the King James Version, now revered as one of the most influential English texts, carries with it a hidden history—one of political maneuvering, linguistic adaptation, and the sacrifice of a man whose work shaped it more than any other. Tyndale’s dying prayer was answered, but at a cost he never could have foreseen.

So, to us the reader, how can we continue our studies of the KJV of the bible, understanding that it has “political Influence?”

Trusting the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible—or any translation—depends on several factors, including its accuracy, source manuscripts, translation methods, and historical impact. Here’s why many trust the KJV and some considerations for its reliability:

Reasons People Trust the KJV

1. Manuscript Tradition – The KJV was translated primarily from the Textus Receptus (Received Text) for the New Testament and the Masoretic Text for the Old Testament. Many believe these texts faithfully preserve the original scriptures.
2. Translation Method – The KJV was translated using formal equivalence, meaning it tries to keep the wording as close as possible to the original Hebrew and Greek. This method ensures a word-for-word translation rather than paraphrasing.
3. Reverence & Influence – The KJV has been widely used for over 400 years, shaping Christian thought and doctrine. Many revivals, awakenings, and missionary movements relied on it.
4. Beauty & Memorability – Its poetic structure makes it easier to memorize and recite. Many believers feel that its language carries a level of divine reverence missing in modern translations.

Challenges to Consider

1. Manuscript Differences – Some argue that the Textus Receptus is based on later manuscripts (from around the 12th century), whereas newer translations use older sources, such as the Alexandrian manuscripts, which some scholars claim are closer to the originals.
2. Translation Errors – Like any human work, the KJV is not perfect. Some words in Hebrew and Greek were misunderstood or had limited sources for comparison at the time. Example: The word “Easter” in Acts 12:4 should have been translated as “Passover.”
3. Archaic Language – While beautiful, the 17th-century English can be difficult for modern readers to understand. Some words (like “conversation” meaning “conduct”) have changed meaning over time.

How Can We Trust It?

• Compare with other translations – Studying multiple translations (like NKJV, ESV, or NASB) can provide a fuller picture of the original meaning.
• Study the original languages – Hebrew and Greek resources can clarify difficult passages.
• Pray for discernment – If Scripture is divinely inspired, God will guide those seeking truth.

Many believe the KJV is a trustworthy translation, but it is still a translation. If one’s faith is in God’s Word rather than a single version, it allows for deeper study and a stronger foundation.

As you and I continue to study the Gospel of Jesus Christ, let us simply follow the writing of James:

“James 1:5-6”

5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

This passage emphasizes not only asking God for wisdom but also doing so with unwavering faith. It teaches that doubt can lead to instability, but firm faith brings answers.

I have spent my life learning about the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and can testify to you that this scripture is indeed the key to finding the truth. It is God’s gospel, and He is anxious for you to learn all about it. As you include Him in your studies, you will be able to see through the “Interpretations from Man,” or “Political Influences” that have come to play into clouding the truth of His gospel.

As you pray about the things that you are studying, you will have special feelings of comfort if they are true. If what you are studying through prayer leaves you confused, and unsure, it is likely false doctrine that you are learning about. Trust HIM. He will always direct your path as you learn about the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

If you would like to read more of River Wilde’s writings, subscribe to his blog at www.riverwilde.blog