[4] Peterson notes that in the course of the project, he realized this was exactly what he had been doing in his thirty-five years as a pastor, "always looking for an English way to make the biblical text relevant to the conditions of the people".

[4] The publisher states: "Peterson's work has been thoroughly reviewed by a team of recognized Old and New Testament scholars to ensure that it is accurate and faithful to the original languages.

Some scholars, like Michael J. Gorman, consider some of Peterson's idiomatic renderings unconventional.

[7] The work was awarded the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association Gold Medallion in 2003 for being the title retailers prized.

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul.

4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

4 Even when walking through the dark valley of death I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me, guarding, guiding all the way.

You have bedded me down in lush meadows, you find me quiet pools to drink from.

King James Version: 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever.

The Living Bible: 9 "Pray along these lines: 'Our Father in heaven, we honor your holy name.