Barclay Newman, a translator on the teams for both the Good News Bible and the Contemporary English Version, translated passages of the New Testament into English and published them in 2014, “in a publication brief enough to be non-threatening, yet long enough to be taken seriously, and interesting enough to appeal to believers and un-believers alike.” The following is the translation of Matthew 5:2-12:

Trust God absolutely — though you have nothing to offer —
       God is the Great Rewarder!

Hurt with those who hurt — God is the Gracious Comforter!

Humility is the pathway to victory – God is the Generous Giver!
       And the earth will be given to those who are humble.

Above all else, hunger and thirst to obey God — you will be satisfied.

Mercy for mercy — Show mercy, and God will be merciful to you.

Purity of heart and mind opens eyes to see God —
       and this perfect vision can be yours.

Do you want to become a child of God? Make peace, not war!

Don’t give up, even if you’ve been mistreated for doing right!
       God remains the Great Rewarder!

When others insult you or mistreat you or tell evil lies about you,
       because you belong to God, don’t worry or whimper!
In heaven God will reward you greatly — after all, don’t you recall
       this was the fate of prophets long ago?