Why are mother-tongue Scriptures important for establishing enduring churches?

• A. Without Scriptures in the mother tongue, churches struggle to sustain spiritual depth, defend against false teaching, spiritual warfare, and syncretism
• B. They are optional additions
• C. They hinder cross-cultural exchange
• D. They are only needed for singing

Answer: (B)

Access to Scripture in the local language is essential for durable church life because people grasp and apply God’s Word most clearly when they read and hear it in their own tongue. This deepens spiritual understanding, makes doctrine more meaningful, and empowers believers to live out what they learn. When Scripture speaks in a familiar language, it helps guard against misunderstanding, false teaching, and syncretism, since the message can be examined, discussed, and tested within the cultural context of the church. It also strengthens worship, discipleship, and leadership development because people can study, memorize, and teach God’s Word with clarity and relevance. In addition, mother-tongue Scriptures enable local churches to reproduce themselves more effectively, sustaining mission and church planting through culturally appropriate methods. So, they are foundational for establishing enduring churches, not optional additions.