What is Our Theology of Advancement and Progress and What Milestones are Imminent?

Wycliffe Global Alliance Executive Director Kirk Franklin has initiated dialog and reflection about how progress in the Bible translation movement can be measured. While acknowledging the value of standard statistical gathering–such as how many languages already have adequate access to Scriptures, how much Bible translation work is underway, and how many languages still need Bible translation–he posed questions to Alliance leaders about broader theological considerations such as:

• How do we know what God considers progress in the Bible translation movement and what milestones are theologically significant in the coming decades?
• What milestones will we cross together in the coming years and when?

Kirk compiled the feedback he received for a presentation at the May 2019 FOBAI meeting. This paper presents his thoughts and the input he received in more detail, in order to help participants in the global Bible translation movement to carry on the dialog by considering together how best to seek God’s leading in measuring progress.