How do literacy and Bible translation relate to mission goals?

• A. They are irrelevant to mission goals.
• B. Translation and literacy development provide access to Scripture in local languages, enabling durable church formation and self-sustaining ministries.
• C. They delay church formation.
• D. They only benefit scholars.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that making Scripture available in local languages and developing people’s ability to read shifts mission from external presence to local ownership and lasting transformation. When people can read the Bible in their mother tongue, they understand its message more clearly, apply it in daily life, and discuss it in their communities. Literacy programs equip ordinary believers to study, memorize, teach, and lead others, which accelerates disciple-making and church leadership development.

Bible translation removes a barrier that often keeps people from fully engaging with the gospel, because they can encounter God’s Word in a familiar language and culturally resonant terms. This access helps communities form churches that reflect their context, govern themselves, and sustain ministries over time without continual outside support. In short, translation and literacy are practical catalysts for durable church formation and self-sustaining mission, rather than hindrances to it.