The journey of Vision 2025: Bible translation in every language

By Kirk J. Franklin | Wycliffe Today Autumn 2025 |

Missiologist for Wycliffe Global Alliance
Global Missional Leadership lecturer for the Melbourne School of Theology
Past CEO of Wycliffe Australia

The birth of a vision

In June 1999, a historic gathering occurred at the JAARS Centre in Waxhaw, North Carolina. Known as ICON99, it brought together the Wycliffe International Convention and the SIL International Conference. During this event, 350 delegates adopted ‘Vision 2025’: a commitment to ensure that a Bible translation project would be underway for every group needing one by 2025. Part of the resolution stated:

Motivated by the pressing need for all peoples to have access to the Word of God in a language that speaks to their hearts, and reaffirming our historic values and trust in God to accomplish the impossible, we embrace the vision that by 2025, a Bible translation project will be in progress for every people group that needs it.

This vision was more than a goal; it was a reimagining of Bible translation as a Holy Spirit–led movement that invited collaboration with the global Church. Vision 2025 called for new attitudes, partnerships, and approaches aligned with God’s mission. It was also meant to be a challenge for the next generation to embrace.

The vision in action

Vision 2025 brought a sense of urgency for making Scripture accessible in every language, ensuring that no linguistic or cultural barriers keep people from encountering God’s Word. The vision also recognised that a new approach was needed, so sustainability, capacity-building and collaboration all became priorities. Genuine partnerships with Bible agencies and the worldwide Church became important, along with a commitment to unity and humility before God, acknowledging the Holy Spirit’s leading.

The changing landscape in Bible translation

In the years following its adoption, Vision 2025 stimulated changes within the Bible translation movement. By 2011, more Christians in the Majority World were leading translation work. Consequently, Wycliffe International renamed itself Wycliffe Global Alliance (WGA) to emphasise this change from an international mission agency to a global movement for Bible translation.

One of the most striking outcomes from Vision 2025 has been the global expansion in Bible translation. In 1999, Wycliffe was still predominantly Western, but by 2010, over 70 per cent of Wycliffe Global Alliance organisations were from the Majority World. This reflects a collective shift toward shared ownership and local initiative.

A further strength has been the movement’s adaptability. New technologies, fresh strategies, and a willingness to experiment have enabled Vision 2025 to respond to a rapidly changing world. 

A commitment to the future

With the year 2025 now well underway, we can reflect on the significance of Vision 2025. When this bold commitment began 26 years ago, it was estimated that it could take 125 to 150 years to start Bible translation projects for the remaining 3,000 people groups without Scripture in the languages they understand best. Today, through the collective efforts of Bible agencies and the global Church, that number has dramatically reduced to 985 languages.[*] This progress reflects God’s faithfulness and the tireless dedication of his people.

The journey is far from over, and the need for Bible translation remains urgent. This vision is not bound by a deadline but by a divine calling to participate in God’s mission. It is an invitation to every believer to pray, support, and act so that all people groups may encounter the transformative power of God’s Word in a language that speaks to their hearts. Together, we carry forward the legacy of Vision 2025, trusting in God to accomplish what seems impossible, for his glory.

[*] For more information visit https://www.wycliffe.net/resources/statistics/