Indonesia Bible Translation
Advancing Bible translation in Indonesia through secure, sustainable partnerships.
Bible Translation
Country
- Indonesia
Region
- Southeast Asia
Language Population
61,000
Pioneering Translation Work in Sensitive Regions
This program focuses on translating Scripture into five confidential languages in Indonesia, where no known Scripture exists apart from initial work related to the John 3:16 challenge. It aims to improve access to the Bible through translation work in historically persecuted and at-risk regions.
This cooperative venture, between They Need the Bible and Lutheran Bible Translators (LBT), addresses the unique challenges of working in a nation where over 87% of the population identifies as Muslim and where traditional folk religions are present.
Equipping Local Leaders for Safe Scripture Translation
Your prayers and financial support empower local translators to safely bring God’s Word to five language communities in Indonesia for the first time. Together, we’re equipping dedicated individuals with secure systems, training, and resources needed to transform lives through Scripture access in areas where faith faces significant challenges.
Program Goals
- Establish Secure Translation Systems
- Develop Translation Expertise
- Ensure Translation Quality
- Build Safe Infrastructure
- Foster Strategic Partnerships
Indonesia Program Plan
Step 1
Create Secure Foundation
- Establish safe facilities for translation work.
- Implement comprehensive security protocols.
- Provide secure communication systems.
Step 2
Equip Translation Teams
- Launch digital training programs for translators.
- Facilitate access to educational resources.
- Support leadership development in language communities.
Step 3
Ensure Sustainable Impact
- Complete quality assessments of translations.
- Develop culturally appropriate distribution methods.
- Build lasting support networks.
Meet the Team
Translating the Bible in a persecuted nation requires courage, as translators risk their safety and livelihood. We protect their identities to minimize exposure to persecution. This remains a secret program until publication.
Andrew Olson
Founder of They Need the Bible (TNTB), supports its mission to provide Scripture to unreached communities. TNTB has done 100 first-verse translations globally.
Partner Organizations
program photos by: Magdalena Love on Unsplash & Jason Cooper on Unsplash
Honoring the Language
Indonesia is known for its remarkable linguistic diversity, with over 700 languages spoken across its islands, making it one of the most linguistically diverse countries globally. The official language is Indonesian, but many regional languages like Javanese, Sundanese, and Batak are also significant, each with unique cultural and grammatical characteristics.
