We tend to assume that if a person speaks a language as their mother tongue they will want to read in that language. Not true. Often people read and write in one language but speak another in preference. The language they are literate in is often the lingua franca of the country or region. Also some churches operate mainly in that lingua franca. People's heart language may be different, however. This means having different products in the various languages and using audio or video as appropriate. The print Bible isn't necessary in all these local languages.
This is a response to some recent posts about the importance of Bible translation in fulfilling the Great Commission. Yes, there is much truth in that, but more is needed. It really helps to have Scripture impact (or 'engagement') the top priority, the 'car' as it were, with translation the engine that sits beneath the bonnet. Not all drivers need to know all the details of the engine, but they need to be able to control the vehicle. The most important thing is to be able to get from A to B (see point 2), rather than knowing how the engine works. These are the ten reasons to make Scripture impact a priority: To help people flourish in their communities. There are all kinds of needs that need to be met for people to flourish. One is clean water. Another is good sanitation. Peace (lack of war), and freedom of religion. Access to education etc. etc. For a community to truly flourish they also need access to the Scriptures in a language (or languages) that they understand a...
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