Bethel Church Pulls Passion Translation From Shelves After Plagiarism Allegations

Bethel Church in Redding, California pulled The Passion Translation from its bookstore shelves in early August 2026, citing concerns raised by independent researchers about the accuracy and originality of the text.

Texas pastor David Fish published findings showing more than 300 instances of potential plagiarism in the Gospel of Luke alone. He estimated that roughly 20 percent of the examined text was copied from other translations and paraphrases without attribution. Critics also challenged claims that lead translator Brian Simmons used Aramaic manuscripts that scholars say do not exist.

Bethel issued a statement saying it is in discussions with "skilled organizations" conducting reviews and is waiting for "additional clarity" before deciding whether to restore sales. The church had previously sold an exclusive edition of the translation featuring a foreword by senior leader Bill Johnson.

The backlash spread beyond Bethel. The Bible app YouVersion placed the translation under an "expanded review process." The platform Life Bible dropped it entirely. Charismatic teacher Damon Thompson publicly withdrew his endorsement and apologized to his congregation for recommending the text.

Rick Wadholm Jr., a former professor who served as a paid consultant for the translation, disputed the publisher's claim of a "rigorous scholarly review." He said his feedback was advisory and was often ignored.

Broadstreet Publishing and Brian Simmons have not publicly addressed the specific plagiarism allegations. The translation had been widely used in charismatic and Pentecostal circles for years before the controversy surfaced.