In 1611, the Bible was translated into the king’s speech (the king’s English). The King James Version was first published on May 5, 1611. It is a masterpiece of English literature and the best selling book in history.

In the spring of 1970 I had a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. One of the first things I did after that experience was to pick up a red letter edition of the King James Version. Although a couple of years earlier, I had rejected the idea of the Bible being the Word of God, this time the words burned in my heart.

Even the archaic language couldn’t slow me down. I devoured the KJV for several years, literally reading it for hours a day. Within a few months I was convinced that the Bible is indeed the inspired Word of God, not because a preacher said so, but because it was daily transforming my life.

Eventually I wore out my first Bible and began to read another translation. Over the years I have read many translations, but the KJV holds a special place in my heart, as the first Bible I read as a born again believer.

KJV, thou hast touched many people, including me. Thou art a beautiful translation of the Holy Scriptures. I wish thee a happy 400th birthday.