About Us
Why Bible translation?
While most of us can name 10 or even 20 different languages, there are actually over 6,900 languages currently spoken in the world today. Of that number, less than half have any portion of Scripture available in any accessible form. Of the remaining languages, over 2,200 need a translation and represent approximately 196 million people. More than just numbers, these are individual people without access to the life-giving, life-changing hope and power of God’s Word. Each language is unique and perfectly suited for the person who uses it, thinks in it, and identifies himself with it. Often people learn a national language for trade or other purposes, but for understanding deep and meaningful concepts they need the language they learned first—their heart language.
Progress and a changing environment
In the past 70 years, some portion of the Bible, often the entire New Testament, has been translated into over 1,500 languages. In many cases, these languages had no alphabet, no writing system, before translation began. Most of this effort has been accomplished by people who had to first learn the language and culture before translation could begin. While these efforts continue, the world is changing. Many of the remaining 2,200 languages without Scripture are in limited access countries. Dominant political, social and religious forces cut entire people groups off from hearing of God’s love. These hostile environments make translation work difficult to impossible for outsiders. The good news is that national speakers are stepping forward to take up the responsibilities and challenges of Bible translation in their own language. In places where foreigners are not welcome, national speakers are the only ones who will be able to do the job. While many are willing, national translators need help. Training, technical, financial and prayer support are necessary for them to succeed. That’s where you and The Seed Company come in.
The Seed Company – Developing partnerships
“Creatively networking God’s people around the world to translate the Bible into every language for His glory” is the vision of The Seed Company. By bringing the resources of Christians to the needs of translators, we develop partnerships that result in effective translation efforts. Seed Company projects are clearly defined in terms of time, cost and results. Linguistic and technical training are provided. Translated Scripture is checked for clarity and accuracy. Close ties of accountability are established. Supporting partners share in the struggles and successes of the project. The results? Another people group receiving God’s message in their own heart language!
Ambitious goals
The Seed Company has set a goal of beginning translation in an additional 225 languages in the next three years. Ambitious? Yes! Impossible? Humanly speaking, yes. But that’s where faith and passion meet. By connecting supporting individuals, groups and churches with national translators and their projects, we can speed up the production of clear and accurate Scripture for those without it. It’s a great goal with eternal results!
Together…we can!
This website has information about current and potential projects, other partners, and ways you can become involved. It’s a great research tool. We are also available to speak to you in person about this exciting ministry. Email, call or write us. Together…we can bring the resources of Christians to those who do not yet have God’s Word in their own language.