stephen R Harrison

I once heard someone say studying the biblical Greek language was foolish. They wrongly said, “all you have to do is read the English. It says what it says.” While we have many dependable and trustworthy Bible translations, we must study to show ourselves approved and correctly handle the Word of truth (2 Tim 2:15). There are many resources that can help us understand biblical Greek without having to be a Bible scholar.

After all, Greek is the language God chose to write the New Testament. Studying it increases our confidence and accuracy in teaching it correctly.  It gives us great insight to the author’s intended emphasis and thus God’s intended message. We must understand what the Holy Spirit was speaking to the original hearers before we can correctly apply it to today’s hearers. 

For instance, let’s look at the word “knowledge” in 2 Peter 1. There are two different Greek words used for knowledge. If we only read the English, we only see the word knowledge and may miss Peter’s point. The word “knowledge” (vv. 2, 3, and 8.) is epignosis and refers to conversion or truly knowing Jesus in relationship. It’s saving faith. Who or object of faith = Christ. The word “knowledge” (vv. 5-6) is gnosis and refers to growth in Christ. It’s growing in faith. How to’s of the faith = Christian living.

Here’s Peter’s point in using two different words that we would miss if it weren’t for studying the Greek. It’s impossible to grow in Christ without Christ. You can’t just add good Christian principles to your life; you must be added to Christ. It’s more than just knowing some things about Christ and Christianity; it’s about knowing Jesus! What you know depends on Who you know!

Peter reminds us it’s about much more than growing in good Christian living techniques and principles. It’s about growing in Christ. So many just add good Christian principles to their life without being added to Christ. You must have a saving faith before you can have a growing faith!

No eipgnosis, no gnosis.