Imagine living in a world where the Bible does not exist in your language. For millions of people around the globe, this is still a reality. But thanks to the work of Wycliffe Bible Translators, that reality is rapidly changing.
In an interview with CBN News, John Chesnut, President of Wycliffe Bible Translators, shared incredible progress in their mission to bring Scripture to every language. Wycliffe has been at the forefront of Bible translation for over 80 years, and their work is nothing short of transformative. Out of the world’s 7,300 languages, Wycliffe has translated 750 full Bibles and another 1,700 New Testaments. But their ambitious goal doesn’t stop there.
Back in the late 1990s, Wycliffe launched “Vision 2025,” an audacious effort to begin Bible translations in every remaining language by 2025. At the time, this meant tackling 3,000 languages, a challenge that seemed monumental. Yet today, that number has been whittled down to just 888—a historic victory in the realm of global Bible translation.
Breaking News. Spirit-Filled Stories. Subscribe to Charisma on YouTube now!
Chesnut credits this success to two game-changing factors: the mobilization of local churches and advancements in technology. “The new thing we’re seeing God do is raising up His church around the world,” Chesnut said. More than ever, local churches in distant countries are leading these translation efforts, with Wycliffe stepping in to support their vision.
Technology, particularly artificial intelligence, has also played a critical role. Chesnut highlighted how AI tools can now take an existing New Testament translation and draft the Old Testament in just days, drastically reducing the time needed to complete a Bible. Other AI innovations even create alphabets for unwritten languages, collecting words from communities to kickstart translations from scratch.
“We’re living in a historic moment,” Chesnut remarked. “This is the first generation that can say, ‘This could happen in our lifetime.’”
And what a moment it is. The work of Wycliffe Bible Translators is not just about linguistics—it’s about fulfilling the Great Commission, spreading God’s Word to every corner of the Earth. It’s a reminder that God can use human ingenuity, partnerships and even artificial intelligence to achieve His purposes.
As we stand on the cusp of completing this monumental task, it’s a powerful testament to how God moves through His people. What seemed impossible a generation ago is now within reach. And in bringing His Word to every tribe, tongue and nation, we see how God’s love knows no boundaries.
Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!
James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
