Bethel Church Pulls Passion Translation from Stores After Plagiarism Allegations

Bethel Church in Redding, California, pulled the Passion Translation from its bookstore shelves on August 10, 2026, after plagiarism allegations surfaced against the translation's creator, Brian Simmons.

The Passion Translation, which Simmons describes as a "heart-level" rendering of Scripture, has been popular in charismatic and Pentecostal communities since its release. Critics, including biblical scholars, have long questioned its translation choices and its departure from standard source texts.

The plagiarism allegations add a new dimension to the controversy. Specific claims have not been fully detailed in public statements, but reports indicate that portions of the translation may have been drawn from other published works without attribution.

Bethel Church did not release a detailed explanation for the decision to remove the translation. A brief statement acknowledged the allegations and said the church was reviewing the matter.

The Passion Translation has been used in worship settings, small groups, and personal devotion by millions of readers. Its removal from Bethel's store is likely to prompt other churches and retailers to reconsider carrying it.

Biblical scholars who have criticized the translation in the past said the plagiarism allegations are separate from their longstanding concerns about its accuracy. Several noted that the translation has faced scrutiny from evangelical scholars who argue it reflects the theological views of its translator more than the original texts.

Simmons has not responded publicly to the specific allegations as of August 12, 2026. The situation is ongoing.