| Bible translation is usually undertaken in order to build up the Christian church--hence a missionary strategy. More narrowly, the Bible translation strategy of mission is here defined as an approach in which the only formal missionary activity is translating Scripture into the mother tongue of those being evangelized, along with appropriate linguistic studies and literacy. This book is an empirical study of the effectiveness of that strategy in building up the receptor church.;Seven longstanding translation programs in the Philippines and eight in Mexico, chosen as representative of the range of programs around the world, were studied. Believers and others were interviewed, and translators questioned for insights. A confidential history and analysis was written for each, and resulting insights compared with data from 85 other programs.;The factor which correlates most highly by far with church growth is relevance of Christian truth to each person's needs and concerns. Many other factors are examined. These are described in terms of the factors consciously or unconsciously considered in a decision to become a Christian, including hearer, motivation, interpersonal relations between messenger and hearer, the various media used, the particular wording of the Christian message, and most importantly, the perceived potential effect of conversion on the life style and interpersonal relations of the convert. The dynamics of growth of the churches themselves is also considered.;These insights are then considered in terms of the translation strategy itself, including the way Scripture is distributed and used, the effects of different kinds of literacy on church growth, and the most effective role of the translator in an independent indigenous church. Some recommendations are made for greater use of applied anthropology and more vigour in reaching out for church growth. |
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