Persecuted Christians sought revenge but chose forgiveness after hearing God's word, says Wycliffe Bible Translators

Wycliffe Bible Translators have attested that the word of God has the power to pacify the angry hearts of those who suffered persecution, especially when people hear it in their own language.

Wycliffe's President Bob Creson recounted an incident when 300 homes in Bambalang, Cameroon were burned down by people from a neighboring village just a week before the Gospel of Luke was to be dedicated in their own language.

"In the midst of the devastation, many were angry and wanted to seek revenge. But the words of Jesus in the Chrambo language about loving enemies has brought comfort, healing and forgiveness to the people of Bambalang," Creson told The Christian Post.

Local Pastor Pius Mbahlegue highlighted one of the central messages that touched the heart of the community: "Hating your enemy back cannot solve the problem. But loving your enemy will disarm your enemy and make him powerless."

Wycliffe, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary of translating the Scriptures, said that there are now more than 550 complete translations of the Bible, with another 2,400 translations of either the New Testament or other books of the Bible. There are about 1,800 other languages that are waiting for translation work, though the process is now much faster than in previous decades because of new technology.

"It used to take 25 years to translate the New Testament, but it now takes on average seven years, thanks to software that aids in the process and broader ownership and participation from those in local communities," Creson revealed.

Using a new translation method, Wycliffe was able to provide a version of the Bible that included tips for complicated sections and free of copyright restrictions. The new method allowed the organization to translate the Bible into 600 languages in two years, with the goal of adding 400 more this year.

The goal of the organization is to translate all of the estimated 7,000 languages spoken worldwide by the year 2025. Creson acknowledged that it was an "aggressive goal," but he maintained that it can become a reality.

Wycliffe Associates currently has 7,000 volunteers worldwide, with some operating in countries where Christians are persecuted. Last year, suspected militants killed four translators and destroyed some equipment, according to the organization.