For years, The Passion Translation (TPT) enjoyed enormous popularity in charismatic and Pentecostal circles, winning endorsements from influential pastors, churches, and ministries around the world. Now, however, the once-celebrated Bible paraphrase is facing one of the biggest crises in its history as a growing list of organizations quietly distance themselves from the controversial project.
The latest wave of backlash follows renewed scrutiny fueled by an extensive investigation involving Bible teacher and apologist Mike Winger and the YouTube channel Minor Prophets. The investigation revisited longstanding concerns surrounding lead translator Brian Simmons, including allegations of plagiarism, questions about his academic credentials, and criticism of his translation methodology.
One of the biggest names to step away is Bethel Church in Redding, California. The influential congregation has stopped selling its special edition of The Passion Translation New Testament, which featured a foreword by Senior Pastor Bill Johnson. Although the promotional webpage remains online, the purchase link has been disabled, signaling a noticeable shift from one of TPT's most recognizable supporters.
Digital Bible platforms are also making changes. Life Bible, a Bible app serving approximately 1.5 million subscribers, confirmed that it recently removed The Passion Translation from its platform. The decision comes four years after Bible Gateway dropped TPT in 2022 following consultations with translation scholars.
Perhaps the most surprising reversal comes from charismatic leader Damon Thompson, who spent years enthusiastically promoting the translation. In a public statement and video message, Thompson admitted he had recommended TPT to his family, ministry students, and church members because he believed its treatment of the biblical languages was trustworthy.
After reviewing the recent allegations, however, Thompson said he could no longer stand behind the translation.
"My entire ministry has been built on a pursuit of both Spirit and Truth," Thompson explained, adding that evidence of misrepresented credentials and unattributed source material compelled him to publicly withdraw his endorsement. He also apologized to followers for recommending the translation, acknowledging that while his intentions were sincere, the responsibility ultimately rested with him.
The controversy marks a dramatic turn for a project that once promised to communicate Scripture by expressing "God's fiery heart of love to this generation." Critics have long argued that TPT functions more as a devotional paraphrase than a faithful Bible translation, while others have questioned Simmons' claims about supernatural encounters that inspired the project.
Momentum against the translation appears to be growing. A petition urging YouVersion-the world's most downloaded Bible app-to remove The Passion Translation has now attracted more than 17,000 signatures, while more ministries and Bible platforms continue to reassess their relationship with the controversial work.
Whether these latest departures represent the beginning of a broader exodus remains to be seen, but the mounting withdrawals suggest The Passion Translation is facing its most significant credibility challenge since its release.
