Scripture Engagement

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...

Photo taken from Toyota UK website Do you know people who drive a 4x4 just to get the kudos of owning such a safe, expensive vehicle? Probably we all do. We don't do Bible translation so as to get kudos. Or do we? The number of times I have heard people talk about 'proper Bible translation' is amazing. What do they mean? They're usually talking about working on one of these products: A print Bible A print New Testament Print books from the Bible e.g. Proverbs, Luke & Revelation In contrast people working on Scripture-based products such as stories (booklets, apps), videos, and audio recordings (of stories) are seen as somehow second-class. Not working on the real thing. Doing something temporary that will be replaced by the real thing later on.  There is, of course, some truth in the fact that a print Bible will be more likely to be used by believers in churches in the long term (if it is in the right language, has the appropriate style, etc. etc....