Dave is a computer engineer and works with NTM’s Computer Services Department.
Here’s his story: Dave majored in electrical engineering in college, and got his initial work experience in power systems. When he was first in NTM, he ended up using his degree and some further training to develop an Avionics Department for NTM.
Then came the question, “Dave, can you help us figure out how our missionaries can use these new-fangled computers?”
The year was 1980, and personal computers were just breaking into the market. Dave researched and experimented, and by the next year, he had determined that the H-89 was the way to start. These were Heathkit “build-your-own” computers, with industrial-grade components. By the time he was ready to demonstrate it, three NTM translators were lined up to buy it, eagerly anticipating that it would reduce the work and time of producing Bible translation. The very first system (computer and printer) purchased by a New Tribes missionary cost nearly $5,000, a bargain in those years.
And wow… the changes since then.
- The H-89 gave way to ready-made computers.
- The prices went from $5,000 to, sometimes, $500.
- Dave went from building systems to consulting with missionaries about computers.
- Dave probably purchases about 200 computers for missionaries each year.
- Computers are still used for Bible translation, but also for far more.
- And now the “new-fangled devices” are things like the touch screen tablet.
But the question really hasn’t changed over the 32 years that he has devoted to this ministry: How can our NTM missionaries benefit from the “new-fangled” technology that is available today?
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Ruth is an editor, and works with NTM’s International Ministries Office. She assists in developing curriculum for Bible teaching.
Here’s her story: From her teenage years when Ruth wrote lessons for a Middle School Sunday School class, she has LOVED developing Bible curriculum. At a crossroads in her life in her mid-20’s, Ruth called the pastor who mentored her as a teen. He asked, “Ruthie, what do you want to do in your life?” Ruth’s immediate response was, “Write Bible lessons!”
And wow, has God ever given her the desire of her heart! Ruth edits the Firm Foundations lessons. This is foundational, chronological Bible teaching that NTM uses in evangelism and teaching believers.
This method of teaching is patterned on God’s progressive revelation of Himself and His plan to rescue people from sin, Satan and death. Lessons start “in the beginning.” Moving through the Old and New Testaments, Firm Foundations highlights the themes that run through all of God’s Word. This builds, from lesson to lesson, an understanding of the Bible as a whole.
Ruth is working with the author, Trevor McIlwain, to revise the 9 books that were originally developed for cross-cultural settings in the 90’s, and to write the rest of the series. In addition, she is involved in modifying the Firm Foundations lessons for churches and home Bible studies, Christian School and home school settings.