Redefine or Rechristen? A Fresh Look at the Role and Responsibilities of a Consultant

Details

Year: 2019

Track(s):

Abstract

A consultant is a
• Teacher
• Trainer
• Mentor
• Preacher
• Pastor

I am reminded of those who have spent their time and poured out their energy to build me up as a consultant. During my twenty-some years as a consultant, I had to switch my role to all of the above list. I am sure this is the experience of all of us who have been in the ministry of consultation.

My thesis is that we should look for a more suitable term than ‘consultant’. ‘Consultant’ brings to mind the picture of a medical practitioner for an ordinary person, like a cardiology consultant, neurology consultant and so on. But a Bible translation consultant does much more than that. I would like to include some real life examples from the field, with their names camouflaged.

About the Author

Born in the southern state of Kerala, Mathew entered the field of Bible translation in 1977, initially as a literacy worker and co-translator to an ex Wycliffe member. He was also involved in training translators and linguists at the Indian Institute fro Cross Cultural Communication from its early years.

Switched to a second language in the 1980s.
Trained as a consultant in the first international translation consultant training at Nasuli, Philippines.
Has served as a faculty in a number of TCDWs held in India.
Presently working with Biblica/International Bible Society as a senior consultant. Mathew has an MA and PhD in linguistics, and taught at the Nagpur University as a visiting faculty.