How to…Interpret

The holy work of interpretation is essential to spread God’s word to different nationalities and countries. It is also vital in delivering sermons to a multi-lingual congregation. Interpreting is more than just processing words from one language to another—interpreters must translate with a spiritual essence in order to edify the congregation. Here are some guidelines to help ensure a well-translated sermon.

Prepare in advance. On a consistent basis, maintain and improve in the following areas:

·         Pray for the guidance and abidance of the Lord.

·         Bible Knowledge:

·         Know the books of the Bible

·         Be familiar with OT and NT terms

·         Be familiar with names and places in the Bible

·         Church Knowledge:

·         Understand the essential doctrines (Basic Beliefs) of our church

·         Know the history, structure, names, and present condition of our church

·         General Knowledge:

·         Expand knowledge in all fields (e.g., literature, history, medicine, etc.)

·         Be informed on historical events and keep up with current events

·         Language Skills:

·         Learn to pronounce all the Bible books and biblical terminologies correctly

·         Read books on effective public speaking and communication

·         Learning Skills:

·         Listen to recordings of your own interpretation and make necessary improvements

·         Observe and learn from other interpreters

·         Additional Pointers:

·         Be familiar with commonly used expressions and sayings

·         Get books on common terminologies in different languages (e.g. American English All-Purpose Manual, which has of Chinese and English terms)

·         Keep a notebook on interpretation; take note of words or phrases you don’t know

·         Talk to the sermon speaker beforehand about the theme and key phrases

During Interpretation

·         Be reverent, calm, and stay focused

·         Use common words (layman’s terms) that everyone can understand

·         Keep sentences simple and precise

·         Avoid repeating words

·         Know your audience—be respectful and make appropriate word choices

·         Project your voice and enunciate words clearly

·         Be expressive and enthusiastic

·         Maintain the same speed and tone as the speaker

·         Stand firm and upright

·         Look towards the audience and avoid looking down at Bible all the time

·         Do not lean on the podium or sway too much

·         Be faithful to the words of the speaker

·         Listen carefully: do not make assumptions on what the speaker will say or is saying

After Interpreting

·         Look up words and Bible verses that were interpreted incorrectly

·         Be able to accept suggestions and constructive criticism

·         Continue to practice, learn, correct, and improve