Using New Testament Greek in Ministry: A Practical Guide for Students and Pastors
Overview
Here are all the tools pastors and teachers need to mine the Greek text and other language resources for the enhancement of personal study and sermon content. Using New Testament Greek in Ministry focuses on the transformation of exegesis into exposition, of studies into sermons. To prepare students toward this end, David Alan Black explains the process of using the Greek text and linguistic resources to study the New Testament and he recommends useful reference books for further study.
In the Logos edition, this volume is enhanced by amazing functionality. Scripture citations link directly to English translations, and important terms link to dictionaries, encyclopedias, and a wealth of other resources in your digital library. Perform powerful searches to find exactly what you’re looking for. Take the discussion with you using tablet and mobile apps. With Logos Bible Software, the most efficient and comprehensive research tools are in one place, so you get the most out of your study.
- Transforms study and exegesis into work that can be presented as a sermon
- Provides tools to craft sermons that are faithful to original Bible text
- Bridges the gap between study and practice by giving the resources needed for public work
- Discusses the different tools available for exegesis and how to effectively use them
- You and Your Greek New Testament: Clarifying Objectives
- Off the Shelf and Into Yourself: Selecting the Right Tools for Greek Exegesis
- Getting Oriented: The Nature and Task of Greek Exegesis
- Developing Your Exegetical Skills: A Concise Guide to Greek Exegesis
- From Theory to Practice: Employing the Principles and Tools
Top Highlights
“In the second place, we who preach from the New Testament must be keenly aware of the temptation of spiritual pride in using Greek in ministry.” (Page 26)
“Second, I rediscovered that a knowledge of New Testament Greek is a potential source of spiritual renewal. I” (Page 22)
“First, I began to see that the primary purpose of instruction in Greek is service to Christ’s body, the church.” (Page 21)
“Consider, for a moment, the alternative. Pastors who do not know Greek are forced to borrow their ideas from others. They are slaves to the commentators, but have no means to check their accuracy. The best tools of interpretation are beyond their reach. Not even the English translations they use are completely trustworthy. Worst of all, without thorough training in Greek they may discover that they are passing on in the name of God their own ignorance, based upon erroneous interpretations.” (Page 24)
“No person is likely to grasp the intended meaning of the Bible, on its deepest level, unless that person learns to read and, in some sense, think in Hebrew and Greek.” (Page 16)
Black provides an excellent guide into the challenging realm of Greek exegesis for those who wish to preach sermons faithful to the biblical text. He is particularly helpful in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and the concrete sermon. Those who follow the instructions provided here will revitalize their preaching ministries. Here is a book for the many flagging pulpits in our churches.
—Donald A. Hagner, George Eldon Ladd Professor of New Testament, Fuller Theological Seminary
As I teach Greek to students preparing for ministry, I have to primary objectives of virtually equal importance: to give them adequate skills to exegete the New Testament and to mount a propaganda campaign on the relevance of Greek for preaching and teaching. For the latter objective I have been left almost entirely to my own powers of persuasion. Now Black’s book fills this gap. I intend to make it a mandatory textbook.
—Craig L. Blomberg, distinguished professor of New Testament, Denver Seminary
An unusually clear and balanced presentation, certain to be of help to ministers. Combines level-headed advice with concrete recommendations for the use of tools.
—Moisés Silva, emeritus professor, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
David Alan Black (DTheol, University of Basel) is professor of New Testament at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the author of numerous books, including Learn to Read New Testament Greek and Interpreting the New Testament.