Recently a friend and brother of mine asked me to look at a link where a fellow, who was highly educated in the Greek and Hebrew language, was teaching Bible themes comparing them to how they are taught today. He had a great insight on how language is used, not only in the Greek and Hebrew but also English. He spent time diving into a particular word showing it's real meaning. He went to a few other words to show how they were used. I realized this sight was not for a beginner! To further drive home his point, he brought up a Greek scholar and quoted him as proving they both came up with the same definition and usage of this Greek word. It just so happened that my fellow co-laborer in the Lord had a copy of the book of this Greek scholar this man quoted from. We found the quote. But here's the interesting part. The Greek scholar's conclusion was not the same as this man said it was. He did make an accurate quote but it wasn't the conclusion of the Greek scholar.
As I reflected upon this, I realized that if someone had a very limited or no knowledge of the Greek and Hebrew language (which is the majority), how could they refute this man's teachings? You couldn't but would have to accept it. His message starts getting passed around and people are being led to a conclusion of something other than what the Scriptures really teach. I was so thankful for this book to be able to search and see it for myself. This man with his great knowledge and insight to languages was misleading people with his great knowledge to a belief that he stood on and it was false teaching.
Here's what I encourage each of us to. First, never be afraid of the word of the Lord. You don't need Greek or Hebrew to understand it! It was translated in English so that we could embrace the truth if it is the truth you are seeking. Find a good translation based on accuracy, not just some paraphrase. There are too many translations out there that are not true to the original text.
Secondly, always allow context to determine how a word is used. Context is the most important factor in proper application of Scripture. Just because a word is used in one place one way does not mean it might be used every place in that same way. Context determines!
Thirdly, seek the truth with all your heart and the Lord will open the door in your seeking. That's His promise. If we aren't seeking the truth or being honest with Scripture, you set yourself up to deception and the Lord will help you find that because that's what you seek (II Thes. 2:10-12).
May God grant each us a heart of wisdom and seeking truth as we glean from His word. Be wise. Be honest. Seek the Lord with all your heart.
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