Direct Answer
The transcript does not identify specific modern theological or cultural assumptions behind the NIV’s wording. It does, however, argue that translators’ preconceptions can make even small additions seem acceptable when they fit the translator’s understanding of the passage.
Support from Transcript
- Bercot says the NIV renders Romans 2:28 with the words “only” and “merely.” - He states plainly, “Neither the word ‘only’ nor the word ‘merely’ are in the Greek text.” - He warns that “the addition of those words can change Paul’s meaning quite a bit.” - The NIV wording implies “that a person must first be a Jew outwardly before he can be one inwardly.” - Bercot says, “but that is not what Paul said.” - Earlier, he explains that translators often have biases and may “read their own theology into Scripture.”
Discussion Follow-ups
Based on the transcript, the issue is not only large paraphrases but also small interpretive insertions. A few words can redirect how readers understand an apostolic argument.