Word Come Alive is an expanded translation (paraphrase) of the New Testament of the Bible by respected editor Martin Manser supplies linking phrases and background information in italics within the text to help make its message more immediately understandable aims to express the sense of the original in contemporary, natural English aims to have a powerful effect on readers, with a fresh, incisive quality that will make readers sit up and think. Some highlights from Matthew’s Gospel:4:18-20 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two men who were brothers, called Simon (also known as Peter) and his brother Andrew. They were throwing their net out into the lake, because they made their living from catching fish. Jesus said to them, ‘Come and follow me. Become my apprentices. Instead of gathering in fish, I’ll train you to gather in people.’ Without a moment’s hesitation the two of them left behind their fishing nets to follow Jesus. 11:28-30 ‘Come to me, all of you who are worn out, overwhelmed and weighed down by the stresses and strains of life. I will relieve you of these heavy burdens. Submit to me; live your life harnessed to me. Follow me and become my apprentices. Let me teach you and train you because I am sensitive and humble in heart and you will find spiritual strength and refreshment because following me is pleasant and a joy, not a chore or heavy burden.’28:17-20 When they saw the risen Jesus, most of them worshipped him as the Son of God. Some of them, however, were hesitant and bewildered. Then Jesus came up and encouraged them. He declared to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. My resurrection confirms that I am the unique sovereign Lord of heaven and earth. Because this is so, I command you to go out now and make disciples in every people group. Be bold and step outside your comfort zone. Train people throughout the world to follow me. As you go, baptise the new followers in the one name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Wash the new followers with water as a sign that they have abandoned their old way of life and are committing themselves to follow me. Teach those new followers to not just listen to, but also to put into practice, everything that I have commanded you. As you do all these things, never forget my promise that I am present with you always. I will equip you with my personal resources of power and encouragement. Remember that I am close to each of you every moment of your lives, wherever you are, right to the very end of this age.’