For over 60 years, Steve and Linda Sheldon have devoted their lives to the transformative work of Bible translation. Their passion, commitment and resilience have impacted countless communities, particularly among the indigenous people of the Amazon. Take a look at their remarkable journey, explore their passion for Bible translation and reflect on what their story means for the global Church today.

Steve and Linda’s Journey: A Calling Answered

Steve and Linda’s journey with Wycliffe Bible Translators began just two days after their wedding, over six decades ago. Reflecting on their decision to join the organization, Steve shared, “We really felt called to serve with Wycliffe for a couple of reasons. One was the power of the Word of God in our own heart language that really changed our lives. The second was that both Linda and I separately heard about the thousands of language groups worldwide that had no portion of God’s Word in their language — the language that they live in, pray in and love in. And that made us feel that this was something worth giving our lives to.”

Their unwavering dedication has remained constant through decades of challenges and triumphs. From learning new languages and adapting to different cultures to mentoring the next generation of translators, Steve and Linda have continually poured themselves into this vital work.

The Impact of God’s Work: Transforming Lives Through Scripture

The Sheldons’ passion for Bible translation stems from a deep conviction that God’s Word can transform lives. “Over the years, we’ve seen, firsthand, and also heard countless stories of ways that God has used His Word in the hearts and lives of people receiving it for the first time to absolutely transform their lives,” Steve said.

One powerful example that Steve shared was about a young indigenous leader in Brazil. Two women translated Scripture into his language, and the young man was transformed. He went on to become a fluent Portuguese speaker and a leader in an organization that promoted Bible translation among indigenous people and others worldwide. This young man's story is a beautiful illustration of how God can plant seeds in someone's heart that will then bear fruit for years or even generations to come.

Steve and Linda’s work has been foundational in inspiring others to take up the mantle of Bible translation. John Chesnut, president and CEO of Wycliffe USA, noted, “Steve and Linda have served in Wycliffe for over 57 years, and their passion has always been about the unreached people groups of the world. … It’s evident that their work is a calling.”

The Bigger Picture: A Global Movement

Steve and Linda Sheldon know that they are part of a much larger narrative — one in which God is moving through the global Church to bring His Word to every language community. Today we are witnessing unprecedented acceleration in Bible translation as churches and communities around the world take ownership of this work. The Sheldons’ efforts have contributed to this generational Kingdom work; people whose lives were first touched by the gospel in their own language are now working to bring it to others.

God is using the global Church to impact the Bible translation movement in ways that we have never seen before in the history of the world. It’s incredible to see how God is engaging churches and communities, including those previously considered “unreached,” to lead and promote Bible translation efforts.

Wycliffe is privileged to be a catalyst in this global movement, collaborating with partner organizations worldwide to ensure that more people can encounter Jesus through Scripture in a language and format they clearly understand. The exponential growth of the Church is a testament to God’s faithfulness — and the dedication of individuals like Steve and Linda, who have given their lives to this life-changing work.

Personal Stories: Faithfulness in the Face of Challenges

Steve and Linda’s journey has not been without difficulties. Linda, reflecting on Steve’s resilience, shared poignant moments from their life: “He [Steve] was held up at gunpoint … had malaria so many times and was beaten up — but he never gave up despite all those things. He’s my hero.”

The couple’s unwavering faith and commitment, even in the face of adversity, are truly inspiring.

When thinking about the resilience of translators and missionaries, Steve talked about the significant role that women have played in Bible translation and their invaluable contributions to the mission.

Steve specifically highlighted Sarah Gudschinsky, a brilliant linguist and the first woman ever on the SIL Global board of directors, as one of his personal heroes of the faith. Her determination and courage set a powerful example for all those involved in the Bible translation ministry, but especially Steve.

A Focus on God’s Word

One Scripture that has profoundly shaped Steve and Linda’s life and ministry is Romans 12:1-2 from the J.B. Phillips New Testament translation:

• “With eyes wide open to the mercies of God, I beg you, my brothers, as an act of intelligent worship, to give him your bodies, as a living sacrifice, consecrated to him and acceptable by him. Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-mould your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all his demands and moves towards the goal of true maturity.”

These verses reflect the couple’s heart to serve God wholeheartedly, no matter the challenges they face. These Scriptures are powerful for both Steve and Linda, prompting them to stay focused on Jesus. It reminds the couple of an indigenous people group they worked with in the Amazon who keep their eyes fixed on their goal during their hunts.

“The people we work[ed] with are hunters and gatherers. They place great emphasis on seeing — you have to see with every one of your senses,” Steve shared.

Steve remembered one young man: He was standing in a canoe, focused intently on the treetops, searching for a monkey hidden far above. The man heard a slight rustling of leaves and shot an arrow with precision. He then climbed to the very top of the tree to retrieve his catch. Steve noted: “It’s an amazing process, but they never give up because their eyes are constantly focused on how they are going to get that food.”

He continued, “If we just keep our eyes focused on Jesus in exactly that same way, I believe God can help us through absolutely anything.” The young man wasn’t worried about tipping over in the canoe or falling out; his eyes were fixed on one place only — up. It’s a good reminder for us to keep our eyes on Jesus, even when things around us compete for our attention or throw us off balance.

This story is a beautiful metaphor for the perseverance and dedication that Steve and Linda have shown throughout their ministry.

A Lasting Legacy

Steve and Linda Sheldon’s story is a beautiful illustration of what it means to live out faithfulness and service to God. As they continue to mentor and support others in the translation community, their legacy is one of hope, transformation and an unwavering commitment to God’s call.

Their lives remind us that Bible translation is not just about words on a page but about people encountering Jesus through Scripture in a language that touches their hearts. It’s about communities being transformed, hope restored and lives changed for eternity. Steve said, “I wake up thinking every day, ‘I get to be involved.’ Just like the Word made a change in our lives, there are men and women, boys and girls, all around the world who are going to have the same opportunity to be impacted by the life-changing, living Word of God.”

Join the Movement

There are still over 900 Vision 2025 languages that need a first portion of Scripture. Around the world today, God is calling people to join the Bible translation movement and be part of something bigger than themselves. If you feel inspired by Steve and Linda’s story, consider how you might be part of this transformative work too.

Whether through prayer, financial support or joining the work, there are many ways to get involved. God is inviting us all to have a front-row seat to watch Him work and participate in what He’s doing around the world. Let’s join Him in this incredible mission and see lives transformed by His Word.

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