"If You Only Knew Greek!" (2 Timothy 3:16)

One of my roommates in college was from Greece. We met when I was a young Christian and he frequently saw me reading the Bible in our dorm room. At times, I would attempt to witness to him but he was usually dismissive. One day after I was sharing a passage with him, he shook his head and said with disdain, “If you only knew Greek.”

I knew the New Testament was originally written in Greek and had been translated into english and nearly every known language. But he spoke in such a denigrating tone, I pushed for clarification. “What do you mean?”

“If you only knew Greek!” He repeated. “The Bible is very different if you read it in the original language!”

“And what? It’s not God’s Word?” I was even more confused.

“You would be surprised by what is written. You would understand if you only knew Greek!”

Once again! I persisted in asking him what he meant. Could he give me some examples? Did he mean that he didn’t believe the Bible? All my inquiries were met with a sardonic smirk, that answered my queries.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV)

I have never formally studied Greek but use a Greek concordance and dictionary when I study the New Testament. I have also read many commentaries written by learned scholars who are experts in Greek. There are some theological points that are open to interpretation depending upon how the Greek is translated. But the core principles of the Christian faith are unwavering. Jesus Christ is God! Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior!

My study of Greek has deepened my love for God and His Word. The Bible is God’s Word. No matter what language the Bible is translated, the Truth will be declared by the Holy Spirit who will illumine the words and make them come alive with relevance and direction for my life.

If I only knew Greek!

Whether Greek, English, or any other language, the Word of God is the same.

Thanks be to God that I know Him!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.