The Holy Bible, Contemporary English Version (CEV) was introduced beginning with the New Testament in 1991. The entire Bible was released in 1995. The translators of the CEV have diligently sought to capture the spirit of the King James Version of the Bible (1611), as the translators nearly four centuries ago of that magnificent translation desired that the Scripture 'be understood' by ordinary people.

Those responsible for translating the CEV understand that more people hear the Word of God read than actually read it for themselves. The Contemporary English Version differs from all other English Bibles—past and present—in that it takes into consideration the needs of the hearer, as well as those of the reader, who may not be familiar with traditional biblical language.

The Contemporary English Version has been described as a user-friendly, mission-driven translation that can be read aloud without stumbling, heard without misunderstanding, and listened to with enjoyment and appreciation, because the language is contemporary and the style is lucid and lyrical.