We’ve become used to a world where nearly everything we need is within reach.
Groceries can be delivered to our doorstep in hours. Safe water flows from a tap. Information is just a voice command away. And when we want to read the Bible or grow in our faith, we have countless options — study Bibles, devotionals, apps, podcasts, small group resources and hundreds of English translations.
For many of us, access to Scripture is so normal that we don’t even think about it. We can quote verses that comfort us and open our Bible apps without hesitation. We assume everyone has the same privilege.
But that’s not the case.
What If You Didn’t Have a Bible?
Think for a moment about what the Bible has meant to you. Has a verse carried you through a painful season? Have you ever been reminded of God’s promises just when you needed them most? Have you felt your identity, your calling, your peace, your hope grounded in God’s Word?
Now imagine those verses were never available to you — not because you lost them or forgot them, but because they never existed in a language you could understand.
This is the reality for millions of people today: The Bible has not yet been translated into their language. They don’t have one book, one chapter or even a single verse.
That can be hard to comprehend, especially when you are probably surrounded by Scripture on a weekly basis. But once you understand the global need for Bible translation, it can change your perspective and stir your heart.
A Story of Hope Is Unfolding
Thankfully, people waiting for God’s Word in their language is not where the story ends. In fact, something extraordinary is happening all around the world.
Local churches and communities are working together to translate Scripture into languages that have never had it before. Local churches are leading the way, determined to bring God’s Word to their people.
When Scripture becomes available in someone’s language for the first time, it marks a new beginning for an individual, a family and even an entire community. People can experience the gospel and realize that God is not distant or abstract: His Word is for them and He knows their language. The gospel becomes personal, clear and powerful.
This is where true transformation begins.
Why Language Makes All the Difference
Language is more than just a tool for communication. It shapes how we think, how we feel and how we connect with God and with others. That’s why having the Bible in a language and format people clearly understand is so important.
When someone can engage with Scripture in their language, the verses and passages take root in their heart. Scripture brings them clarity and connection with God in a way they have never experienced before.
When they engage with God’s Word, people begin to see the bigger picture. They realize that God’s promises aren’t distant or abstract — they’re personal. They can trust that God sees them, knows them and communicates with them in a way they can fully grasp.
This Is the Work of Bible Translation
At Wycliffe, we’re privileged to walk alongside churches, translators and partner organizations that faithfully work to make God’s Word accessible to all people.
When someone encounters Jesus through Scripture in a language they clearly understand, the result is often life-changing.
And while incredible progress has been made, the work isn’t over yet.
In many communities, people are still waiting to engage with God’s Word in a language and format they clearly understand. But we believe that with God’s help — and through the faithful partnership of people like you — that need can be met.
Want to see where Bible translation efforts stand today?
Check out our Vision 2025 progress map and see all that God has done!
So What Can You Do?
When we learn about this global need, it’s natural to wonder how we can possibly make a difference. You don’t have to be a translator to be part of this movement; you simply have to care and take the next step.
1. Pray
Ask God to encourage and strengthen translation teams around the world. Pray for local churches rising up to lead this work. Pray for the communities still waiting, that they would soon experience the joy of having God’s Word in their own language.
“Lord, Your Word brings life. Let every person understand it clearly. Let every language carry Your truth.”
2. Give
Bible translation takes time, commitment and resources. Your support helps equip translation teams, provide technology and share Scripture in ways that are accessible and meaningful — whether written, oral or visual.
Give to support Bible translation.
3. Share
Your voice can spark change. Talk about Bible translation with your friends, family or small group. Share this blog or the video with them. Help others see the beauty and importance of bringing God’s Word to every language.
Explore different ways to share about Bible translation with others.
This Isn’t Just Someone Else’s Story
As you open your Bible today, take a moment to think about what life would be like without it. The encouragement, clarity, wisdom and truths you experience are because someone, somewhere, translated the Bible into your language.
Now you have the opportunity to be part of someone else’s story. Together we can make sure no one is left waiting to experience God’s Word. God is already at work bringing light, hope and transformation to communities around the world, and He’s inviting us to be part of it!
