Engaging with the History of Bible Translations
Join author and content creator Tim Wildsmith for this year's Bible Craftsmanship event at Museum of the Bible exploring how Scripture has been translated, transmitted, and treasured throughout history. Through two engaging sessions, Tim will guide guests through the story behind the English Bibles we read today, helping demystify translation philosophies, textual traditions, and what makes each version unique.
The event also includes a curated tour of the museum’s History of the Bible Floor—an experience full of significant artifacts and rare Bibles, offering attendees a rich, immersive encounter with the history of the Bible. Whether you're a pastor, student, or simply curious about how the Bible came to us, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn from one of today’s most exciting voices on modern Bible craftsmanship and translation.
Sep 12, 2026 - Sep 12, 2026
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM EDT
Gathering Room
Includes Admission
General Admission in Person: $39.99
Members in Person: $22.99
Students in Person: $29.99
General Admission Virtual: $19.99
Member & Students Virtual: $14.99
In Person Event
Virtual Event
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Schedule
1:00 p.m. | Welcome and Session 1
2:00 p.m. | Guided Tour, Floor 4
3:30 p.m. | Short Break for Refreshments
3:45 p.m. | Session 2
4:45 p.m. | Conclusion
Session 1: Why So Many Bibles? The History Behind English Translations
Take a journey through the incredible history of the Bible in English, from the earliest translations to the wide array of modern versions available today. Drawing from his book, Bible Translations for Everyone, Tim Wildsmith will guide attendees through the key moments, people, and innovations that shaped the English Bible. This session will help you gain a deeper appreciation for how historical decisions continue to influence translation philosophy, reading experience, and biblical interpretation today.
*Following Session 1, attendees will get a guided tour of Museum of the Bible’s Floor 4 with Tim and one the museum’s guides. This exhibit includes many of the original Bibles Tim will discuss during his presentation.
Session 2: Word-for-Word or Thought-for-Thought? How Translation Philosophies Shape the Bible You Read
With dozens of English translations available, choosing a Bible can feel overwhelming. In this practical and insightful session, Tim will demystify the landscape of contemporary Bible translation by explaining translation approaches (word-for-word, thought-for-thought, blended) and discussing reading levels and use-cases, all while highlighting the unique qualities of several major translations. Attendees will leave equipped to choose a Bible that is both accurate and enjoyable to read—whether for study, devotion, teaching, or sharing with others.