While approximately one billion precious people live without access to the Lord’s firmly fixed Word, many Christians are laser-focused on ensuring these life-giving words reach the bibleless. The body of Christ will not forget – no matter how small or remote – every language community matters to us … and to God. 

Globally, Christ-followers pray for every person to have access to our Father’s unchanging Word. 

Forever, O Lord, your word

   is firmly fixed in the heavens. – Psalm 119:89, ESV

BIBLE TRANSLATION TRAINING – GREAT COMMISSION WORK IN ACTION

God’s Word goes to the nations through Bible translation work. 

Bible translation is impossible without well-trained translators.

The Word for the World trains indigenous leaders in every aspect of Bible translation, offering a Diploma in Bible Translation program and a Consultant Development program. 

Since our training programs started in 1981, more than 80% of students have gone on to be employed in the field of translation.

Our integrated training equips those called to Bible translation with practice-oriented learning. We focus on building a core of trained indigenous Bible translators, creating opportunities for each to reach his or her full potential.

SPOTLIGHT ON TRAINERS

To fully comprehend the Bible translation process, it is important to understand the people behind the scenes.

Bible translation trainers, dedicate themselves to teaching, equipping, and mobilizing indigenous Christians. These qualified men and women help students become skilled Bible translators. Without trainers, students couldn’t answer God’s call to bring His Word to their people.

WHAT SHAPES TRAINERS?

Bible translation trainers have expertise in Greek and Hebrew and hold advanced degrees in:

• Linguistics
• Biblical studies
• Theology/missiology

Many spend decades in the field, engaging in heart-language translation work. These skilled trainers live cross-culturally, immersing themselves in local languages and communities.

Beyond academics, they are multilingual teachers adept at exegesis and cross-cultural leadership. They coordinate projects, train students, and mentor future translators.

More Than Teachers — Mentors, Guides, and Encouragers

Bible translation trainers also go beyond linguistics. These skilled lecturers encourage students and equip them to persevere. Their heartfelt guidance ensures translators stay true to Scripture and flourish in their callings.

Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. – Philippians 4:9, NLT

But training isn’t just about translation; it’s about growth. Many translators continue developing their skills, moving from translation work into exegetical roles and sometimes on to consultant positions. The Word for the World intentionally integrates indigenous people into every aspect of the Bible translation process, ensuring they are not just participants but leaders shaping the future of Bible translation.

THIS BRINGS ME GREAT JOY

ABEDNEGO (Mashi Project)

"The Diploma in Bible Translation transformed my work. I developed my writing and language skills, and now I can produce a mini-dictionary in a month — this brings me great joy. I plan to organize a full dictionary workshop soon. I’m deeply grateful!"

Servant Leadership Transforms Lives

Students at a recent Biblical Leadership and Management course shared how their view of leadership changed. The training emphasized humility, collaboration, and lifelong learning.

One translator reflected, “I learned that true leadership means serving and sharing — not just within the Christian community, but beyond.”

Bible translation training equips called and committed believers to carry God’s Word to the nations. With every trained translator, another language community moves closer to receiving Scripture in their heart language — until the whole earth is filled with His glory.

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

   as the waters cover the sea. – Habakkuk 2:4, NIV

Pray with us for Bible translation lecturers this March. Sign up to receive Prayer Cards.