Why Every Bible Matters: A Conversation with Bart Rybinski
The world around us today is filled with distractions and shifting priorities, it can be easy to overlook the power of Scripture. With all the noise and uncertainty, the enduring power of Scripture remains a beacon of hope. But for the team at EEM (Eastern European Mission), every Bible placed in someone’s hands represents a tangible act of faith, a story of hope, and a lifetime of transformation. At EEM, our heart beats to share stories of how God’s word is making a profound difference in the lives of ordinary people across the globe.
This conversation with Bart Rybinski, EEM’s Vice President of European Operations, offers a glimpse into the incredible work of Bible distribution, the challenges faced, and the unwavering faith that fuels our Bible ministry. He shared inspiring insights into the ministry’s impact in 2024 and its mission moving forward. Join us as we explore the impact of Scripture access and the beauty of Christian ministry in action and let’s explore why every Bible matters and how EEM’s Bible ministry continues to bring light into some of the darkest corners of the world.
Faith in Action: The Power of Bible Distribution
Bible distribution isn’t just about delivering books; it’s about planting seeds of faith in the hearts of individuals and communities. EEM’s Bible ministry stretches across over 35 nations and 25 languages, serving as a bridge between Scripture access and discipleship through Scripture. EEM’s commitment to Bible ministry extends far and wide, touching lives in diverse and often challenging regions. In 2024, we witnessed both significant victories and moments that tested our faith. One poignant example was the conclusion of our large-scale Ukraine aid program. While a difficult decision, the overwhelming gratitude and resilience of our Ukrainian partners underscored the power of Scripture access and the deep bonds formed through Christian ministry.
Providing Free Bibles in Times of Crisis
In 2024, one of the most heartfelt stories came from the conclusion of EEM’s organized Ukraine aid efforts. While logistical and funding challenges brought the program to an end, the relationships forged remained strong. Partners on the front lines in Ukraine showed incredible grace and gratitude, highlighting how Bible distribution had touched lives beyond material aid.
“Even if you can’t send money, please send us Bibles,” partners urged. This plea underscored the eternal value of Scripture access over even the most basic needs. It’s a reminder that when we speak of Free Bibles, we speak of hope, truth, and love that transcends conflict.
Ministry in Ukraine: The Human Side of the Mission
The decision to scale back our Ukraine aid program was heart-wrenching, as we knew how many depended on the help we provided. Our partners, working tirelessly on the front lines, showed incredible grace and understanding. Their heartfelt appreciation for EEM’s past support, and their continued plea for Bibles, highlighted the crucial role of Scripture access even amidst crisis. They recognized that in the midst of conflict, the word of God offers a unique source of comfort and strength.
Despite the hardships, the Ministry in Ukraine continued through the work of local team members who chose to stay. Team members like Sasha, Vanya, and Andrei exemplified what it means to live missionally in the mundane. From care packages to Bible delivery, their unwavering commitment ensured that God’s Word never stopped reaching those in need. This is the heart of Christian ministry: to serve, even when it hurts.
Bible Distribution as Discipleship
Every layout, every shipment, and every signature on a project isn’t just a task—it’s discipleship through Scripture in action. Whether it’s delivering Children’s Bibles or large-scale adult Bible projects, each act is a step closer to fulfilling EEM’s mission: bringing the Bible to every person in their heart language.
Unexpected Doors: Expanding Through Partnerships in Ministry
God continues to open doors for Bible distribution in remarkable ways..His Spirit is always ahead of us, preparing hearts, conversations, and connections. The growth of EEM’s Bible ministry is a testament to how divine orchestration often works through relationships. One unexpected opportunity arose from a meeting at a Christian Publishers gathering in Switzerland. This led to a partnership to publish the New Testament in the Gilaki language, spoken by millions in Iran. This Iran Bible translation project will provide Scripture access to a people group who have never had the full New Testament in their heart language.
The Importance of Partnership in Bible Ministry
These experiences underscore a vital truth: Partnerships in ministry are essential. The Christian ministry is not a solo endeavor; it thrives on collaboration, trust, and mutual encouragement. Whether it’s providing practical aid or ensuring Scripture access, working together amplifies our impact and allows us to extend God’s love to those in need. The situation in Ukraine also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and compassion, transcending political divides to offer help and hope.
The Transform Iran Partnership: A Divine Intersection
The story of the Gilaki New Testament is a testament to the power of divine connections. A chance meeting, a shared passion for Bible distribution, and the recognition of God’s hand at work – these elements converged to create an extraordinary opportunity. Our partnership with Transform Iran exemplifies how Christian ministry can bridge cultural and linguistic divides to bring the life-changing message of the Gospel to new audiences.
One of the most remarkable stories shared by Bart was the new connection with Transform Iran. What started as a casual meeting blossomed into a partnership to publish the Gilaki New Testament—a Bible translation project for the people in Northern Iran who have never had Scripture in their heart language.
This Iran Bible translation project was made possible by divine timing, faithful people like Lana and her team, and EEM’s willingness to follow the Spirit’s lead. It was a reminder that Bible distribution can flourish when Christian ministry is grounded in trust and openness.
A Rising Movement: Christians in Turkey
In addition to the Iran Bible translation, EEM is also actively involved in expanding Scripture access in Turkey. The growing interest in Christianity in Turkey is encouraging, and we are privileged to support local Christians in their efforts to share the Gospel. These endeavors highlight the diverse ways in which Bible distribution can take root and flourish, transforming individuals and communities.
Bart also recounted his travels to Turkey and how he was surprised by the growing number of Christians in Turkey. These believers, often meeting in challenging circumstances, are hungry for Scripture. By supporting these communities with Bible translation projects and resources, EEM helps ignite and sustain movements of faith.
Partnerships in Ministry: Spirit-Led and Relational
Partnerships in ministry don’t happen by chance. They’re built on mutual trust, shared vision, and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Whether it’s connecting with faith-based nonprofits in Europe or collaborating with long-term allies in publishing, EEM believes in going where the Spirit leads—even when it’s uncomfortable, unexpected, or unplanned.
Engaging Faith and Culture with Gospel Courage
Christian cultural engagement doesn’t require compromising convictions. It calls for courage, creativity, and Christlikeness. Patrick Miller’s interview is a masterclass in how to speak truth in love while being firmly rooted in biblical values.
The Role of Biblical Principles in Cultural Engagement
Whether addressing issues of sexuality, race, or justice, Patrick consistently points listeners back to Scripture. Biblical principles, not cultural trends, must guide our responses. It’s not about shouting louder than the world but shining brighter through our actions.
In his conversation with the 5511 Podcast hosts, Patrick explains how his church handled culturally sensitive topics with grace and truth, choosing not to attack or retreat but to engage with love.
The Power of Spiritual Transformation Stories
One of the most moving parts of the episode was hearing about lives changed through small acts of faithfulness. Stories like an atheist calling to ask why his medical debt was paid off “in the name of Jesus” are reminders that spiritual transformation often begins with radical kindness.
These stories highlight how the gospel and culture intersect in real life. They call us to look beyond rhetoric and toward relationship—the place where true transformation happens.
Equipping the Church for Cultural Conversations
Church and culture often seem at odds, but Patrick believes that the church can be a catalyst for healing and hope. His insights help equip everyday believers to have thoughtful, grace-filled conversations about faith and society.
By encouraging open dialogue, modeling empathy, and pointing to Jesus, we can reflect the heart of a Savior who never compromised truth but always led with love.
The Heart of Countercultural Christianity
At the core of countercultural Christianity is the call to live differently from the world around us. Miller emphasizes that this isn’t about withdrawing from society but about engaging it with a distinct set of values and priorities.
He illustrates this with the story of his church’s efforts to support a local pastry shop employing people with disabilities. Even when faced with opposition, their response was to build bridges and seek understanding, demonstrating the radical love and generosity that should characterize Christ’s followers.
The Next Generation: Investing in Children’s Bibles
When we talk about legacy, we must look to the children. EEM’s Children’s Bible campaign is a beautiful embodiment of this investment. At the heart of EEM’s Bible ministry is a deep commitment to following the Spirit’s leading. We don’t simply distribute books for the sake of numbers; we seek to be guided by God’s hand, trusting in His perfect timing and provision. This means being open to unexpected Partnerships in ministry, embracing challenges with faith, and celebrating the miraculous ways God works through ordinary people.
Children’s Bible Campaign: Scripture for Young Hearts
Imagine a child who has never heard the story of David and Goliath, or never flipped through the pages of the New Testament. In Eastern Europe and beyond, many children are growing up without access to Scripture. The Children’s Bible campaign seeks to change that by distributing hundreds of thousands of age-appropriate Bibles each year.
These Children’s Bibles are not mere books; they are life-giving resources that speak directly to the hearts of young readers. Bart shared the story of children in Ukraine who were asked about their favorite Bible stories—only to realize they had never heard one. That moment captured the urgency and importance of this work.
Discipleship Begins Young
Scripture access for children lays the foundation for a lifetime of discipleship through Scripture. EEM’s commitment to this next generation ensures that future leaders will rise with God’s Word hidden in their hearts.
Our Children’s Bible campaign is another vital aspect of our Bible ministry. Providing children and teens with Free Bibles in their own languages is an investment in the future. These Bibles plant seeds of truth that can shape young lives and transform generations. The opportunity to give a child the gift of Scripture is a privilege, and we are grateful for the Financial Ministry Partners who make this possible.
Following the Spirit in Christian Ministry
True Christian ministry is characterized by a willingness to step out in faith, even when the path ahead is uncertain. It requires discernment, prayer, and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit. The stories of Bible distribution we share are not merely about logistics; they are about divine appointments, orchestrated connections, and the joy of witnessing God’s transformative power.
Behind the Scenes: Gratitude for Our Financial Ministry Partners
None of this is possible without the generosity and trust of EEM’s Financial Ministry Partners. Bart emphasized the sacred responsibility that comes with each donation. We extend our deepest gratitude to our Financial Ministry Partners and Sponsors. Your generosity fuels our EEM Bible ministry and enables us to carry out vital Bible distribution projects. We recognize the trust you place in us, and we are committed to being faithful stewards of your gifts. To our partners in Estonia, North Macedonia, Partner Reach the World – Czech Republic, and partners in other Eastern European countries, EEM is grateful for every form of support. Every prayer, every donation, is an act of love that ripples across the globe, bringing hope and healing through Scripture access.
Stewardship with Integrity
Every dollar given is treated as an act of love and is stewarded with prayerful intention. The team prays daily to be worthy of the trust placed in them by supporters. It is this heart of integrity that defines EEM as a faith-based nonprofit grounded in accountability and humility.
Expressions of Love in Every Bible
One partner from Poland said it best: “This is not just a Bible; this is an expression of love.” That sentiment echoes across borders and reminds us all why every Bible matters. Our partners’ support is more than just financial; it’s a tangible expression of love. These “love offerings” as described by our partners in Poland, provide Free Bibles and transform lives and we are privileged to witness the profound impact of your generosity. While the full extent of your giving may not always be immediately apparent, we trust that God is working through every Bible distribution effort to bring about lasting change.
The EEM Team: A Family on Mission
The heart of EEM is its people. Our team, both in the US and in Europe, is a dedicated group of individuals who view their work not as a job, but as a calling. Their commitment to Christian ministry is evident in their unwavering dedication, their spirit of unity, and their willingness to go above and beyond to serve. We are incredibly grateful for the team that God has assembled, and we ask for your continued prayers for their strength and well-being.
Conclusion: Moving Forward in Faith
The work of Bible distribution is a sacred calling, one that requires faith, perseverance, and a deep love for people. As EEM looks toward the future, the mission remains clear: bring the Bible to every person who needs it, no matter the cost. Whether it’s through partnerships like Transform Iran, serving Christians in Turkey, or providing Children’s Bibles to the next generation, every step is an act of faith.
Bart Rybinski’s reflections remind us that we are all part of a greater story—a story where Scripture access is not a privilege but a right, and where Bible distribution becomes a global movement of hope, transformation, and eternal impact.
At EEM, we are privileged to partner with individuals and churches around the world to bring the life-transforming power of Scripture to those who need it most. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and for your continued support of our EEM Bible ministry.If you’re reading this, you are part of that story. Thank you for walking alongside us. Let’s continue to trust the Spirit, follow His lead, and believe together that every Bible truly matters.
Together, we can make a difference, one Bible at a time.
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