There’s a simple answer to the question “What’s a Paraphrase?” In short, it’s the rewriting of a scripture verse into your own words.
A Definition
Basically, a paraphrase is something you’ve put into your own words.
Thus, the Webster Dictionary definition. In short, it says a paraphrase is “a restatement of a text, passage, or work giving the meaning in another form.”
Scripture Paraphrases
As such, the Category “Verse Paraphrases” on this Web site contains paraphrases of scripture verses that I’ve written.
However, you must personalize the verses. Then, they can take root in your life and current circumstances.
Thus, each entry within the “3-Minute Precepts” and “Verse Paraphrases” Category contains the Bible verse in my own words.
Finally, under “Apply this Today!” you’ll find some practical applications of the verse.
An Example
For instance, read Proverbs 4.23 from several versions of scripture.
Next, read the paraphrase of that verse from the post entitled: A Just Character is Essential.
Fundamentally, when you write a paraphrase you ask the two basic questions:
First, what does this verse mean?
Second, what does this verse mean to me personally?
As such, scripture comes alive when it’s personalized!
Personal Applications
Writing a paraphrase is an essential tool for understanding scripture.
Then, the next step is to become self-sufficient in applying these precepts.
That is, when you write the verse in your own words you move toward understanding what the verse means.
Then, you personalize it by application statements that help define what the verse means to you right now.
Together, “What does the verse mean” and “What does it mean to me personally” move me toward practical application of these universal precepts.
Outcomes
The goal of each entry in the Paraphrase Category is to provide around a 800-to-1000 word discussion of a fundamental precept from scripture.
In contrast, the 3-Minute Precepts Category contains 300-or-so word snap-shots of a verse.
Finally, the longer, blog-type entries in the Category “Studies in Proverbs” are more in-depth discussions of the passages.
So, “What’s a paraphrase?” Well, it’s scripture that comes alive through being personalized.
I trust you find these passages as challenging and as rewarding as I have in my years studying Proverbs.
