I Am Not a Greek Scholar
You Don’t Need to Know Greek to be a Scholar.
Over the years, through many lessons, sermons, and discussions, the phrase “You do not need to be a Greek scholar to understand the Bible” has echoed in my ears. I heartily agree with the statement and have said it myself. This means what it says, but it does not mean that ignoring the Greek (or any language of the Bible) is acceptable. Not being a Greek Scholar does not give anyone the freedom to misuse an English word in place of an accurate English translation. There are no inspired translations. The only inspired words of the Bible were the original ones.
The accuracy of translations today depends on the degree to which they express the original meaning of that which was given by the Holy Spirit. There is great humor in the frequently statement, “The King James Version is the only inspired translation!” No, it is not inspired. It wasn’t even produced until a thousand years after the inspiration of the Spirit had penned the Gospel. So what is the point? Simply put: Accessing the inspired original languages of the Bible, instead of a mere translation, will at times provide a clearer and therefore proper understanding of God’s Will.
Consider the English translation of Psalm 81:3: (KJV)
“Blow up the trumpet in the new moon, in the time appointed, on our solemn feast day.”
These words make it sound as if a trumpet needs to be destroyed. The original language would make it clear that the playing of the instrument is the proper understanding.
Consider the English translation of James 2:3: (KJV)
“And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:”
Increasing generations would consider this a verse expressing kindness to a homosexual. Rather, the term “gay” is a reference to expensive or luxuriant clothing.
The above are simply verses where the meanings of English phrases have changed over time. Going back to the original languages can clarify what was meant. But what about John 1:1 (New World Translation):
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a God.”
Other English translations read “the Word was God”. Examining the original Greek statement in John 1:1 no article “a” is discovered. To say the Word (Jesus) was a god, vs. saying Jesus was God is a huge difference. Without having access to the Greek, a profound misunderstanding could have been established.
There are countless translation issues that make the Bible confusing at times. Not being a Greek Scholar, but being willing to use a Greek / Hebrew dictionary can answer a lot of questions and correct many false understandings. Such resources are available most everywhere in physical print and digital formats. Accessing this material will deepen and broaden your understanding of scripture, aiding you in being a Christian Scholar as was commanded in Matthew 28:19:
“Go ye therefore, and make disciples [enroll as scholars] of all the nations,…”