Why Bible Translation is Moving Faster Than Ever

Something remarkable is happening in Bible translation.

Across the global Church, growing unity is creating new momentum in Bible translation. Although approximately 3,000 languages still lack a complete Bible, the number of languages with no access to Scripture at all is decreasing rapidly.The reason for this unprecedented acceleration is partnership. 

Across the Bible translation movement, the body of Christ is sharing tools, training, and experience as we work together to carry out the command Jesus gave before He ascended—to go into every nation, tribe, and tongue with the good news of the gospel.

Through faith and partnerships, an historic movement of God’s Word is underway.

Part of the Movement

The Word for the World is grateful to be part of this wider movement. We work alongside many others who share the hope that every people group will have access to God’s Word in a language and format they can understand.

For more than four decades, The Word for the World has walked with language communities, trained local translators, and supported the careful work of bringing Scripture to life in heart languages. 

This work has grown through years of listening, learning, and partnership. Along the way, we’ve also shared what we’ve learned with others working toward the same goal. Through worldwide collaborations, The Word for the World and our partners are translating God’s Word for people who once thought they had missed the opportunity to ever read or hear God speak their language.

The Challenges

Much of the work takes place under extremely challenging circumstances. Believers face pressure, hardship, and even extreme persecution. Yet the work continues. God’s Word is reaching people in their own languages, bringing deep understanding to those who have waited to hear it.

We won’t stop until “the knowledge of God covers the earth as the waters cover the sea.” (Habakkuk 2:14, NIV)

Staying Focused

The Word for the World remains committed to seeing the entire Bible translated for every language community we serve. This work is part of Vision 2050, our goal of seeing first-time Bible translations completed in 1,000 languages by the year 2050. By God’s grace, we are on track.

Our work happens in three ways: investing in communities, providing in-depth Bible training and tools, and creating processes that can be easily multiplied to begin new translation projects among indigenous peoples. 

When local believers lead translation work, it creates long-term sustainability for the complete Bible translation process.

Our Partners Matter

From the beginning, God designed His people to work together.

Jesus prayed for His followers to be one, just as He and the Father are one, so that the world would know who He is. He also said His disciples would be recognized by their love for one another. 

Unity and love were always meant to be a visible witness to the world.

No single organization can complete this work alone. Translation organizations, churches, and supporters work together to ensure the Word reaches the remaining dark areas of the world. 

Seed Company, Faith Comes By Hearing, American Bible Society, Davar, Wycliffe, Pioneer Bible Translators, Deaf Bible Society, and Every Tribe Every Nation (ETEN) are just a few of the partners we coordinate with. Each brings resources and knowledge that help move Bible translation forward. 

Local churches, international denominations, and individuals like you also contribute to the massive efforts to fulfill the Great Commission. As Scripture reminds us: 

“So it is with my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11, NIV 

See the full list of partners at the end of this article.

A Shared Invitation 

This moment in history is a gift. 

Never before has Scripture reached so many language communities this quickly. 

Take a moment to consider the opportunity before us—and how you might take part in helping bring God’s Word to people still waiting to hear it in their own language.

Prayer, giving, and steady support move the work forward. Thank you for standing with us, and with the many partners serving together in Bible translation. 

“For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord

as the waters cover the sea.”

Habakkuk 2:14, NIV

 Our Partners: