King James I vs. the King James Bible: God’s Sovereignty in Preserving His Word

King James I vs. the King James Bible: God’s Sovereignty in Preserving His Word




1. Who Was King James I?

King James I of England is best known for one of the most influential Bible translations in history—the King James Version (KJV). Yet his life and character often provoke important questions: Was he a godly king? Did he translate the Bible? And why would God use an ungodly king to accomplish His will?


History portrays King James I as a man of pride, indulgence, and questionable morality. His unnatural affections for his male favorites, such as Robert Carr and George Villiers, cast a shadow over his legacy. His excessive love of power, wasteful spending, and disregard for true Christian living further marred his reign. Despite this, his association with the KJV remains a pivotal part of church history.


2. King James I Did Not Translate the Bible

Contrary to popular belief, King James I did not translate the Bible—he merely authorized its translation. In 1604, he commissioned 47 scholars to produce a version that would unify the Church of England. The project was intended to settle religious disputes and establish a common English Bible for both clergy and laypeople.


These scholars worked directly from Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic texts—specifically the Masoretic Text and the Textus Receptus. They labored for seven years, and the King James Bible was completed in 1611.


3. The Scholars Behind the King James Bible

The translators of the KJV were not ordinary men; they were among the most learned theologians and linguists of their time. Many were professors from prestigious institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, experts in Latin, Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic. Their scholarship ensured the accuracy and beauty of the translation.

Some of the notable scholars included:

  • Lancelot Andrewes – A highly respected bishop and polyglot scholar fluent in 15 languages.
  • John Overall – An expert in patristics (the study of early church fathers) and ancient biblical texts.
  • Miles Smith – A Hebrew scholar who wrote the preface to the King James Bible.
  • William Bedwell – A renowned Arabic scholar and expert in Semitic languages.
  • Richard Bancroft – The Archbishop of Canterbury who oversaw the translation process.

Their work was marked by extraordinary diligence and reverence for God’s Word, ensuring that the translation remained faithful to the original texts.


4. God’s Sovereignty in Using an Ungodly King

Though King James I authorized the translation for political reasons, it was ultimately God who orchestrated the entire process. Despite the king’s corruption, God appointed a team of scholars uniquely qualified to produce a Bible translation of unmatched accuracy and literary excellence.


The Bible was named after King James not to honor his character, but to demonstrate how God’s will prevails despite human sinfulness. This serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty—that even through flawed and sinful men, His purposes are accomplished perfectly.

5. The Lasting Legacy of the King James Bible

The King James Bible stands as an everlasting testament to God’s faithfulness in preserving His Word. Though produced through the hands of fallible men, it remains a reflection of the inerrant, infallible, authoritative, and sufficient Word of God.


This translation continues to inspire and guide believers, demonstrating that no matter how much men oppose or distort God’s truth, they cannot stop it. The King James Bible is not just a literary masterpiece—it is evidence of God’s sovereign hand at work throughout history, ensuring His Word endures for generations.


~Kenneth



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