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Greek for Everyone: Introductory Greek for Bible Study and Application
Who Says You Have to Attend Seminary to Learn Greek? Reading the New Testament in its original language is one of the most effective ways to gain a greater understanding of the message of the Bible. Even though Greek is important to preparation for preaching and teaching, many who are called to ministry will not be able to dedicate years of study to master the language. But a lack of mastery of Greek should not exclude us from gleaning important insight and inspiration from reading Scripture in its original language.Now pastors, Bible study instructors, Sunday school teachers, and serious lay students of the Bible can learn the basics of biblical Greek at their own pace. Greek for Everyone explains how the Greek language works and introduces the Greek alphabet, pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar, equipping readers to understand the original meaning of the New Testament. By focusing on the takeaways that most impact interpretation, this accessible book provides a working knowledge of biblical Greek for the study of Scripture.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 20, 2016
34 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 10, 2023
I mostly rated this so low because I *hate* studying Greek and this book was an instrument of torture for me.
That said, it is probably a useful foundational tool.
That said, it is probably a useful foundational tool.
March 6, 2022
A little bit of irony here:
The First line of the promo blurb about the book says, "Who says you have to attend seminary to learn Greek?" Funny thing is, this was my Greek textbook in seminary.
The second bit of irony: The book is titled, "Greek for Everyone" but between the two textbooks I was using, this is the one I would say is "not for everyone." Both books were good, but Blomberg's Handbook of New Testament Exegesis is the one I am most likely going to refer back to time and again in my studies of scripture and sermon preparation. This one is most likely just going to sit on my (virtual) shelf collecting (electronic) dust.
The First line of the promo blurb about the book says, "Who says you have to attend seminary to learn Greek?" Funny thing is, this was my Greek textbook in seminary.
The second bit of irony: The book is titled, "Greek for Everyone" but between the two textbooks I was using, this is the one I would say is "not for everyone." Both books were good, but Blomberg's Handbook of New Testament Exegesis is the one I am most likely going to refer back to time and again in my studies of scripture and sermon preparation. This one is most likely just going to sit on my (virtual) shelf collecting (electronic) dust.
November 19, 2016
I have a confession to make: my Greek is awful. In seminary, I was expected to be able to exegete the Greek (and I did) but I focused on Hebrew for my biblical languages credits. My Hebrew is much better than my Greek. Just like Jesus (I can't back that up). However, Greek is the language of the New Testament (the Christian Scriptures) and if you want a handle on what the Bible said in its original context, it is helpful to be able to go back to the Greek.
Chadwick Thornhill is the chair of theological studies and assistant professor of apologetics and biblical studies at Liberty University School of Divinity. He wrote Greek For Everyone: Introductory Greek for Bible Study and Application to help students of the Bible understand how Greek works, so they could be 'better students of the New Testament.' He focuses on morphology, grammar, structural analysis, and introductory interpretive matters (introduction, xi). Unlike typical introductory Greek texts, there isn't an emphasis on learning huge lists of Greek vocab. In all Thornhill instructs readers to memorize only about ninety-two Greek words, His eighteen chapters are focused on understanding the language and how words are put together.
There are commendable things about Thornhill's approach. He walks through the basics of grammar—verbs and nominals, cases, articles, pronouns, adjectives and prepositions, verb moods, infinitives, and participles—comparing similarities between Greek and English sentence construction. If you get a handle on what Thornhill is saying, you will not only parse verbs correctly but be well on your way to reading the New Testament well. He imparts the tools to read words in context well.
I appreciate the fact that he leaves his discussion of word studies until near the end of the book. Too many Bible readers, armed with a Strong's concordance and personal piety, strong-arm the Greek language, interpreting words anachronistically and in keeping with a preconceived theological grid. Thornhill demonstrates that there may be some real value to word studies, but this comes when we can read words in context: in sentences, verses and in wider passages. More helpful than knowing a Greek word, its root meaning, and various senses, is knowing how each word functions in a sentence, and overall argument to convey meaning.
So, I really appreciate Thornhill's approach. Unfortunately, books on language learning lack whimsy. There are parts of this book I had to read and then re-read because my eyes glazed over. This isn't Thornhill's fault. It is an introductory text. You got to learn the building blocks of language before you hear its poetry. I just wish the process was more engaging.
This is a helpful book and I would recommend it especially as a resource for people who have had some Greek and want an at-a-glance refresher on the rudiments of Greek grammar. The chapters are easily navigable for quick reference and Thornhill does a good job of describing the fundamentals of Greek grammar. Secondly, readers who have had some language learning (beyond Koine Greek) will also readily make use of Thornhill's. If readers have no previous language learning, Thornhill does define terms (like normative, vocative, infinitives, participles) but I wonder if a more conventional Greek text (which spends more time with each part of grammar) would be more helpful for the general reader. Thornhill assumes a conceptual framework that a true language novice does not possess. Then again, my imagined linguistic neophyte wouldn't pick up a book on biblical Greek. I think it's worth asking: is this Greek For Everyone? I give it four stars.
Note: I received a complimentary copy from Baker Books in exchange for my honest review.
Chadwick Thornhill is the chair of theological studies and assistant professor of apologetics and biblical studies at Liberty University School of Divinity. He wrote Greek For Everyone: Introductory Greek for Bible Study and Application to help students of the Bible understand how Greek works, so they could be 'better students of the New Testament.' He focuses on morphology, grammar, structural analysis, and introductory interpretive matters (introduction, xi). Unlike typical introductory Greek texts, there isn't an emphasis on learning huge lists of Greek vocab. In all Thornhill instructs readers to memorize only about ninety-two Greek words, His eighteen chapters are focused on understanding the language and how words are put together.
There are commendable things about Thornhill's approach. He walks through the basics of grammar—verbs and nominals, cases, articles, pronouns, adjectives and prepositions, verb moods, infinitives, and participles—comparing similarities between Greek and English sentence construction. If you get a handle on what Thornhill is saying, you will not only parse verbs correctly but be well on your way to reading the New Testament well. He imparts the tools to read words in context well.
I appreciate the fact that he leaves his discussion of word studies until near the end of the book. Too many Bible readers, armed with a Strong's concordance and personal piety, strong-arm the Greek language, interpreting words anachronistically and in keeping with a preconceived theological grid. Thornhill demonstrates that there may be some real value to word studies, but this comes when we can read words in context: in sentences, verses and in wider passages. More helpful than knowing a Greek word, its root meaning, and various senses, is knowing how each word functions in a sentence, and overall argument to convey meaning.
So, I really appreciate Thornhill's approach. Unfortunately, books on language learning lack whimsy. There are parts of this book I had to read and then re-read because my eyes glazed over. This isn't Thornhill's fault. It is an introductory text. You got to learn the building blocks of language before you hear its poetry. I just wish the process was more engaging.
This is a helpful book and I would recommend it especially as a resource for people who have had some Greek and want an at-a-glance refresher on the rudiments of Greek grammar. The chapters are easily navigable for quick reference and Thornhill does a good job of describing the fundamentals of Greek grammar. Secondly, readers who have had some language learning (beyond Koine Greek) will also readily make use of Thornhill's. If readers have no previous language learning, Thornhill does define terms (like normative, vocative, infinitives, participles) but I wonder if a more conventional Greek text (which spends more time with each part of grammar) would be more helpful for the general reader. Thornhill assumes a conceptual framework that a true language novice does not possess. Then again, my imagined linguistic neophyte wouldn't pick up a book on biblical Greek. I think it's worth asking: is this Greek For Everyone? I give it four stars.
Note: I received a complimentary copy from Baker Books in exchange for my honest review.
November 5, 2020
The reason this book gets a 3 star is partially my fault. It makes it very clear I in the beginning “don’t move on unless you understand the chapter.” I of course just moved right along regardless of how well I understood everything.
Chapters 2-13 offer an extensive look at the many different uses of the Greek language and its purpose. It is a lot. 14-18 look at word studies, block diagramming, and the exegetical process.
I do believe this book would help many if they took the time to use it the right way, I just simply read it for a class that I’m barely staying alive in.
Chapters 2-13 offer an extensive look at the many different uses of the Greek language and its purpose. It is a lot. 14-18 look at word studies, block diagramming, and the exegetical process.
I do believe this book would help many if they took the time to use it the right way, I just simply read it for a class that I’m barely staying alive in.
November 21, 2016
I just finished reading A. Chadwick Thornhill’s, Greek for Everyone: Introductory Greek for Bible Study and Application published by Baker Books (Note: My copy of the book was provided to me by the publisher for purposes of review.)
I minored in Greek back in my undergraduate days. My seminary required study of Greek, so I added a couple more courses in New Testament exegesis then. All that was many years ago, however, and my Greek has grown rusty. I thought this book would be a good review for me and be worth considering to share with serious Bible students in my church. I was not disappointed.
First some comments on the content. Thornhill takes the reader from an introduction to the Greek language – what the letters and sounds are – through a comprehensive overview of the grammar. The material is up to date – more than what I had been taught 30 years ago – so in spite of my extensive courses on the subject, I found myself learning quite a bit.
Second, Thornhill structures the book so there are examples throughout. Each grammatical feature is amply and simply illustrated with brief excerpts (verses and partial verses) from the actual New Testament text. The organization of the book as a whole and of each chapter in particular is clear and easy to follow.
Third, each chapter gives some vocabulary and brief exercises for the student. These are by no means extensive enough to constitute a whole course in Greek, but they suffice for the introductory work this is intended to be.
Fourth, as the author brings everything together in the final chapter, I appreciate his wisdom and helpful suggestions. I’ll mention two. First, Thornhill is emphatic that biblical interpretation is a communal activity. As I teach my own students, he insists that we’re more likely to get the Bible wrong when we read it alone, in isolation from other readers. Second, there is an emphasis on epistemic humility. Thornhill hammers home the fallibility of readers. Because we can be wrong, and often are, we need to practice being open to correction.
The main weakness of this book is probably common to the genre, and more a feature of our culture than the book itself. Ordinary church folk seem desperately afraid of Greek (Shakespeare didn’t help us here). Thornhill’s book, if read carefully, will help dispel some of that fear. I’m not sure, however, that a majority will be willing to give it a chance.
There are two contexts I would be inclined to use this book. The first is the New Testament exegesis class I taught to undergraduates. That class required no knowledge of the original languages, and this would have made a nice addition to the course. Second, I would happily use it with advanced Bible students in the local church, particularly those who are or aspire to be teachers.
I minored in Greek back in my undergraduate days. My seminary required study of Greek, so I added a couple more courses in New Testament exegesis then. All that was many years ago, however, and my Greek has grown rusty. I thought this book would be a good review for me and be worth considering to share with serious Bible students in my church. I was not disappointed.
First some comments on the content. Thornhill takes the reader from an introduction to the Greek language – what the letters and sounds are – through a comprehensive overview of the grammar. The material is up to date – more than what I had been taught 30 years ago – so in spite of my extensive courses on the subject, I found myself learning quite a bit.
Second, Thornhill structures the book so there are examples throughout. Each grammatical feature is amply and simply illustrated with brief excerpts (verses and partial verses) from the actual New Testament text. The organization of the book as a whole and of each chapter in particular is clear and easy to follow.
Third, each chapter gives some vocabulary and brief exercises for the student. These are by no means extensive enough to constitute a whole course in Greek, but they suffice for the introductory work this is intended to be.
Fourth, as the author brings everything together in the final chapter, I appreciate his wisdom and helpful suggestions. I’ll mention two. First, Thornhill is emphatic that biblical interpretation is a communal activity. As I teach my own students, he insists that we’re more likely to get the Bible wrong when we read it alone, in isolation from other readers. Second, there is an emphasis on epistemic humility. Thornhill hammers home the fallibility of readers. Because we can be wrong, and often are, we need to practice being open to correction.
The main weakness of this book is probably common to the genre, and more a feature of our culture than the book itself. Ordinary church folk seem desperately afraid of Greek (Shakespeare didn’t help us here). Thornhill’s book, if read carefully, will help dispel some of that fear. I’m not sure, however, that a majority will be willing to give it a chance.
There are two contexts I would be inclined to use this book. The first is the New Testament exegesis class I taught to undergraduates. That class required no knowledge of the original languages, and this would have made a nice addition to the course. Second, I would happily use it with advanced Bible students in the local church, particularly those who are or aspire to be teachers.
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December 29, 2025The goals of the author for this book:
Rather than what is found in a traditional Greek grammar textbook in which you learn and memorize vocab, conjugations, and declensions and do lots of translation, etc., the approach of this book is "to equip the reader with the skills to work through a passage exegetically, knowing how to get the lay of the textual land and understand what features to give the most attention." (xii)
This book does include Greek vocabulary words to memorize throughout and provides a solid introduction to the significance of various elements of biblical Greek (e.g., the meaning of the nominal cases, the meaning of verb moods).
Concerning the goals for which it was written, this book succeeds with excellence.
"Studying the New Testament in Greek opens up a world of interpretation not possible without it. A colleague of mine often says it’s like going from black-and-white television to high-definition. This book will not make you a master of the Greek language, but it will enable you to understand its basics, interact with quality commentaries and research on the New Testament, and gain more confidence in rightly interpreting the Bible. ...
I have written this book to focus solely on issues of morphology (how words are formed), grammar (how meaning is structured), syntax (how words and phrases are arranged), structural analysis (how ideas interact with one another), and introductory exegetical (i.e., interpretive) matters. The goal is to understand how language as a whole works, and in particular the Greek language, and to apply our findings to Scripture." (xi)
Rather than what is found in a traditional Greek grammar textbook in which you learn and memorize vocab, conjugations, and declensions and do lots of translation, etc., the approach of this book is "to equip the reader with the skills to work through a passage exegetically, knowing how to get the lay of the textual land and understand what features to give the most attention." (xii)
This book does include Greek vocabulary words to memorize throughout and provides a solid introduction to the significance of various elements of biblical Greek (e.g., the meaning of the nominal cases, the meaning of verb moods).
Concerning the goals for which it was written, this book succeeds with excellence.
October 21, 2016
Confession is good for the soul and I must confess I have not kept up with my Greek as I should have after two semesters of Greek in college and one in seminary. I am thankful for resources like Greek for Everyone by A Chawick Thornhill.
Chadwick covers the basics of New Testament Greek in such a way that would make this book accessible to even a laymen. I he gives some of the most important advice on progressing and maintaining use of language in his first chapter. Chadwick in addition to providing a suitable foundation for understanding the basic vocabulary and grammar of Koine Greek also provides valuable insight into interpretation and application.
If you are a teacher of the word, especially if you are a pastor, I would encourage you to maintain your study of the original languages. If you have no background in Koine Greek this resource will serve as a guide to get you going and point you to further resources as you grow in the languages.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
Chadwick covers the basics of New Testament Greek in such a way that would make this book accessible to even a laymen. I he gives some of the most important advice on progressing and maintaining use of language in his first chapter. Chadwick in addition to providing a suitable foundation for understanding the basic vocabulary and grammar of Koine Greek also provides valuable insight into interpretation and application.
If you are a teacher of the word, especially if you are a pastor, I would encourage you to maintain your study of the original languages. If you have no background in Koine Greek this resource will serve as a guide to get you going and point you to further resources as you grow in the languages.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
December 29, 2021
Thornhill’s “Greek for Everyone” takes readers through a whirlwind of topics, providing in-depth excursuses into the grammar, syntax, exegesis, and application of the Greek New Testament. Thornhill brilliantly demonstrates the value and applicability of reading texts with context, historical and textual, as well as the pitfalls that are so common with “lite Greek”. His final chapters warmly encourage the student to press on to greater facility with the Scriptures.
Why four stars? Simply put: this isn’t “for Everyone”. Even though it is aimed at beginners, I don’t think genuine beginners will be able to slog their way through the grammatical sections. They are just too broad and too terse to be valuable. I have engaged with multiple Greek grammars (Mounce, Black) and absolutely would not have made it without prior experience.
Why four stars? Simply put: this isn’t “for Everyone”. Even though it is aimed at beginners, I don’t think genuine beginners will be able to slog their way through the grammatical sections. They are just too broad and too terse to be valuable. I have engaged with multiple Greek grammars (Mounce, Black) and absolutely would not have made it without prior experience.
December 17, 2020
This is an excellent book for preachers, teachers, or people who just want to be able to study their Bible beyond the surface of the typical Sunday school class experience. While it does involve some level to technical jargon, it painstakingly explains each concept and term and makes for an excellent resource to either read in its entirety or to pick and choose topics in the study process for which one might need help. While the text deals primarily with the Greek text, it applies concepts that will help one study Old and New Testament alike.
October 22, 2016
Chapter 1 discusses overall language learning, and particularly what's involved in acquiring knowledge of ancient Koine Greek. Chapter 2 reviews the big picture of language. What does it take to do effective interpretation of biblical passages? Is "knowing Greek" enough? Maybe one needs to know the "big picture" first. Thornhill defines the "big picture of language" as "words do not have meaning" (11). For instance, the denotation of "cat" or "bank" is established by context. A cat could be a "four-legged feline" or just "a cool guy." The surrounding words, syntax, and literary setting of a term like "cat" will help to ascertain just what the term means. In a word, we need a context or usus loquendi to fill out the big picture of language.
Chapter 3 teaches new Greek students about phrases, clauses, and conjunctions. Thornhill defines the following terms: sentence, subject, predicate, preposition, and phrase. His explanation for prepositional phrases and their objects is brief, but helpful. The account in Greek that Thornhill summons forth to illustrate how prepositions function in Koine Greek is Romans 8:1, 2. To elucidate participial phrases (phrases that contain verbal adjectives), he employs Matthew 8:1 and John 4:10. Finally, to help readers understand infinitive phrases (phrases that contain verbal nouns), we find examples taken from Matthew 5:17 and Philippians 1:21. This chapter includes an enlightening distinction that's made between coordinating conjunctions (paratactic) and subordinating conjunctions (hypotactic).
Learning an ancient language normally takes resources in order to master one's study of the language. Chapter 4 of Greek for Everyone provides some tools that might be helpful, even though not all Greek teachers will agree with some of the recommendations outlined in the chapter. Thornhill appears to have no problem with students employing interlinears: he suggests a number of electronic resources to access free interlinears. John 1:1 is wielded in this case, to illustrate how an interlinear might look. Strong's Concordance numbers are even displayed and said to be "useful" (31). However, Greek purists will undoubtedly demur or look askance at this suggestion. His recommendation for lexicons will probably fare much better. I agree that serious students ought to buy BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) and Louw-Nida (Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains). Furthermore, a new Cambridge Greek-English Lexicon will be published in 2017/2018. Nonetheless, lexicons just like other resources must be utilized judiciously.
Other things that one needs to know about Greek are noun cases. Chapter 6 introduces the nominative accusative, and vocative cases. John 1:1c again finds its way into the discussion, and from the notable text, we learn that the passage has a Greek conjunction, a noun without an article (i.e., a noun used anarthrously and predicatively), a third-person singular stative verb, and a noun coupled with the article, which means that the nominative construction identifies the verb's subject (46).
Greek also has genitive and dative noun cases. Chapter 7 outlines different types of genitives: many examples are supplied to assist the nascent Greek student. What is the difference between subjective genitives and objective genitives? What is a dative of association or a dative of cause? This chapter offers clarifications on this subject, and Thornhill gives a healthy warning about understanding datives and other Greek cases.
There are more chapters that deal with Greek syntax. Chapter 8 covers Greek articles, pronouns, adjectives, and prepositions whereas Chapter 9 switches to (Independent) Indicative-Mood Verbs. Conversely, Chapter 9 reviews (Independent) Imperative-Mood Verbs; speakers employ imperatives to relay commands that could be general or emphasize "some aspect of duration" (87). The chapter, like some of the others, is fairly short by design.
Next comes (Dependent) Subjunctive-Mood Verbs (Chapter 11), (Dependent) Greek Infinitives in Chapter 12, and (Dependent) Greek Participles in Chapter 13. The last-mentioned chapter builds on earlier material regarding participles. Now the student learns about present participles, aorist participles, perfect participles, adjectival participle functions, adverbial participle functions, and verbal participle functions. See Acts 5:41; Ephesians 1:20; 1 Peter 2:18. This summary might sound overwhelming at first, but Greek for Everyone has a way of making complex subjects fairly understandable.
Since I've previously studied many books on Greek morphology and syntax, the part of the book that appealed to me was Chapters 14-18. On these pages, Thornhill returns to the "big picture," discloses how students might compare English translations, explains how to bridge contexts, and how to undertake word studies in a responsible manner. The final chapter attempts to synthesize all of the material presented hitherto. The book also contains appendices, notes, a glossary, and indices.
Greek for Everyone is simply written, accessible, and abstains from being too wordy. Additionally, the author does not fear treading new paths as he endeavors to help students and teachers of Koine Greek.
Baker Books provided my complimentary copy of Greek for Everyone, and they sent the book without expecting me to give a positive review.
Chapter 3 teaches new Greek students about phrases, clauses, and conjunctions. Thornhill defines the following terms: sentence, subject, predicate, preposition, and phrase. His explanation for prepositional phrases and their objects is brief, but helpful. The account in Greek that Thornhill summons forth to illustrate how prepositions function in Koine Greek is Romans 8:1, 2. To elucidate participial phrases (phrases that contain verbal adjectives), he employs Matthew 8:1 and John 4:10. Finally, to help readers understand infinitive phrases (phrases that contain verbal nouns), we find examples taken from Matthew 5:17 and Philippians 1:21. This chapter includes an enlightening distinction that's made between coordinating conjunctions (paratactic) and subordinating conjunctions (hypotactic).
Learning an ancient language normally takes resources in order to master one's study of the language. Chapter 4 of Greek for Everyone provides some tools that might be helpful, even though not all Greek teachers will agree with some of the recommendations outlined in the chapter. Thornhill appears to have no problem with students employing interlinears: he suggests a number of electronic resources to access free interlinears. John 1:1 is wielded in this case, to illustrate how an interlinear might look. Strong's Concordance numbers are even displayed and said to be "useful" (31). However, Greek purists will undoubtedly demur or look askance at this suggestion. His recommendation for lexicons will probably fare much better. I agree that serious students ought to buy BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) and Louw-Nida (Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains). Furthermore, a new Cambridge Greek-English Lexicon will be published in 2017/2018. Nonetheless, lexicons just like other resources must be utilized judiciously.
Other things that one needs to know about Greek are noun cases. Chapter 6 introduces the nominative accusative, and vocative cases. John 1:1c again finds its way into the discussion, and from the notable text, we learn that the passage has a Greek conjunction, a noun without an article (i.e., a noun used anarthrously and predicatively), a third-person singular stative verb, and a noun coupled with the article, which means that the nominative construction identifies the verb's subject (46).
Greek also has genitive and dative noun cases. Chapter 7 outlines different types of genitives: many examples are supplied to assist the nascent Greek student. What is the difference between subjective genitives and objective genitives? What is a dative of association or a dative of cause? This chapter offers clarifications on this subject, and Thornhill gives a healthy warning about understanding datives and other Greek cases.
There are more chapters that deal with Greek syntax. Chapter 8 covers Greek articles, pronouns, adjectives, and prepositions whereas Chapter 9 switches to (Independent) Indicative-Mood Verbs. Conversely, Chapter 9 reviews (Independent) Imperative-Mood Verbs; speakers employ imperatives to relay commands that could be general or emphasize "some aspect of duration" (87). The chapter, like some of the others, is fairly short by design.
Next comes (Dependent) Subjunctive-Mood Verbs (Chapter 11), (Dependent) Greek Infinitives in Chapter 12, and (Dependent) Greek Participles in Chapter 13. The last-mentioned chapter builds on earlier material regarding participles. Now the student learns about present participles, aorist participles, perfect participles, adjectival participle functions, adverbial participle functions, and verbal participle functions. See Acts 5:41; Ephesians 1:20; 1 Peter 2:18. This summary might sound overwhelming at first, but Greek for Everyone has a way of making complex subjects fairly understandable.
Since I've previously studied many books on Greek morphology and syntax, the part of the book that appealed to me was Chapters 14-18. On these pages, Thornhill returns to the "big picture," discloses how students might compare English translations, explains how to bridge contexts, and how to undertake word studies in a responsible manner. The final chapter attempts to synthesize all of the material presented hitherto. The book also contains appendices, notes, a glossary, and indices.
Greek for Everyone is simply written, accessible, and abstains from being too wordy. Additionally, the author does not fear treading new paths as he endeavors to help students and teachers of Koine Greek.
Baker Books provided my complimentary copy of Greek for Everyone, and they sent the book without expecting me to give a positive review.
November 1, 2016
5 Reasons You Should Study Greek
There’s a Greek alphabet tucked into my cookbook shelf, and every so often I bump into it in my search for a recipe. It’s an apt metaphor for the place and prominence that deep study plays in my every day life — tucked somewhere between the soup and the muffins. The reappearance of that chart never fails to stir up a tiny pang of regret. Why didn’t I study Greek back in my college days when I had the opportunity — and the time?
Once outside academic life, it’s nearly impossible to invest the years of study that are required for mastery of a language, so naturally I could not resist reading Dr. A. Chadwick Thornhill’s Greek for Everyone, which promises to focus on a working knowledge of biblical Greek with an emphasis on facilitating in-depth study of the New Testament. My “what have I gotten myself into?” response at the beginning of chapter one has mellowed to a quiet realization that this is a discipline that will enhance my study. So with whatever small time I am able to invest, I’m back to the beginning again with the daunting task of learning a new alphabet and phonetic system, but I’m convinced that it will be worth the effort for five reasons:
A better understanding of New Testament (Koine or common) Greek reveals the reason for many of the differences that appear in our English translations. Word order in Greek is much more fluid than in English. Furthermore, Greek prepositions can take on a range of meanings that are narrowed down by paying attention to their objects. Therefore, differences among translations function as a flare, drawing attention to interpretive issues that deserve special care in our reading and studying.
Words by themselves can easily lead us astray. The big picture is critical for effective meaning-making, and the Greek language’s tendency to hang multiple supporting clauses off one main clause makes it challenging to identify the main idea of a sentence. Take Ephesians 1:3-14 for example. The grammatical structure of this one sentence (yes, one sentence!) in the Greek is completely lost in the English translations, which break it into shorter, more readable sentences, BUT which do not carry forward the flow of thought from the original. No matter how much time I spend on my alphabet and phonics chart, I’ll never straighten this out on my own. However, this heightened awareness will make me a more careful reader.
On-line resources for Bible study abound. Interlinear Bibles, lexicons, parsing aids, and concordances make it possible to study the New Testament with minimal knowledge of Greek, but they also open the door to a fragmented scatter-shot approach to study that results in “dynamite” force blasting forth from every reference to power in the New Testament and leaves well-intentioned preachers loading down words with every possible range of meaning, regardless of context. Dr. Thornhill offers helpful questions to bear in mind when studying individual words: What concept is the word intending to invoke here? What is the significance of using one synonym instead of another? Am I examining a word that carries “theological weight” in the passage? What is the possible range of meanings for this word, and are there other terms with similar meaning?
Language is a key factor to understanding the context of the New Testament. Being a mono-linguistic North American is only one of the biases that I bring to my reading of the Bible. Dr. Thornhill urges his students to “stand under” a text rather than “standing over it.” I can’t say this any better than he did: “We must . . . allow the text to read us, to reshape our presuppositions and to reform our mind as we read it.” Amen.
Borrowing a term from Grant Osborn, Dr. Thornhill describes the interpretive process as a “hermeneutic spiral” — a journey more than a destination that is “consistently applied and reapplied as we dive into the deep water of the New Testament.” An attitude of “epistemic humility (recognizing that we are not omniscient)” explores the background of a text, reads it in context (and even out loud, if possible), compares translations, and then examines lexical, grammatical and syntactical issues in order to develop a tentative description of the passage’s meaning. Only then are commentaries, books, sermons, and articles consulted to confirm the reader’s conclusions.
A high view of Scripture includes an understanding that “texts do not just have something to say, but they they also have something to do.” This is the reason we read and study Scripture, and whatever tools we have in our hands, God will use them as they are offered to Him. For now, in these days of “seeing through a glass darkly,” my knowledge of God will be veiled no matter how much Greek I learn, but it’s nice to know that by pressing into a fuller knowledge of the Bible I can bring those bookends of “already” and “not-yet” a tiny bit closer together, adding to that fuller knowledge with a more faithful doing of the will of God.
//
This book was provided by BakerBooks, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for my review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
There’s a Greek alphabet tucked into my cookbook shelf, and every so often I bump into it in my search for a recipe. It’s an apt metaphor for the place and prominence that deep study plays in my every day life — tucked somewhere between the soup and the muffins. The reappearance of that chart never fails to stir up a tiny pang of regret. Why didn’t I study Greek back in my college days when I had the opportunity — and the time?
Once outside academic life, it’s nearly impossible to invest the years of study that are required for mastery of a language, so naturally I could not resist reading Dr. A. Chadwick Thornhill’s Greek for Everyone, which promises to focus on a working knowledge of biblical Greek with an emphasis on facilitating in-depth study of the New Testament. My “what have I gotten myself into?” response at the beginning of chapter one has mellowed to a quiet realization that this is a discipline that will enhance my study. So with whatever small time I am able to invest, I’m back to the beginning again with the daunting task of learning a new alphabet and phonetic system, but I’m convinced that it will be worth the effort for five reasons:
A better understanding of New Testament (Koine or common) Greek reveals the reason for many of the differences that appear in our English translations. Word order in Greek is much more fluid than in English. Furthermore, Greek prepositions can take on a range of meanings that are narrowed down by paying attention to their objects. Therefore, differences among translations function as a flare, drawing attention to interpretive issues that deserve special care in our reading and studying.
Words by themselves can easily lead us astray. The big picture is critical for effective meaning-making, and the Greek language’s tendency to hang multiple supporting clauses off one main clause makes it challenging to identify the main idea of a sentence. Take Ephesians 1:3-14 for example. The grammatical structure of this one sentence (yes, one sentence!) in the Greek is completely lost in the English translations, which break it into shorter, more readable sentences, BUT which do not carry forward the flow of thought from the original. No matter how much time I spend on my alphabet and phonics chart, I’ll never straighten this out on my own. However, this heightened awareness will make me a more careful reader.
On-line resources for Bible study abound. Interlinear Bibles, lexicons, parsing aids, and concordances make it possible to study the New Testament with minimal knowledge of Greek, but they also open the door to a fragmented scatter-shot approach to study that results in “dynamite” force blasting forth from every reference to power in the New Testament and leaves well-intentioned preachers loading down words with every possible range of meaning, regardless of context. Dr. Thornhill offers helpful questions to bear in mind when studying individual words: What concept is the word intending to invoke here? What is the significance of using one synonym instead of another? Am I examining a word that carries “theological weight” in the passage? What is the possible range of meanings for this word, and are there other terms with similar meaning?
Language is a key factor to understanding the context of the New Testament. Being a mono-linguistic North American is only one of the biases that I bring to my reading of the Bible. Dr. Thornhill urges his students to “stand under” a text rather than “standing over it.” I can’t say this any better than he did: “We must . . . allow the text to read us, to reshape our presuppositions and to reform our mind as we read it.” Amen.
Borrowing a term from Grant Osborn, Dr. Thornhill describes the interpretive process as a “hermeneutic spiral” — a journey more than a destination that is “consistently applied and reapplied as we dive into the deep water of the New Testament.” An attitude of “epistemic humility (recognizing that we are not omniscient)” explores the background of a text, reads it in context (and even out loud, if possible), compares translations, and then examines lexical, grammatical and syntactical issues in order to develop a tentative description of the passage’s meaning. Only then are commentaries, books, sermons, and articles consulted to confirm the reader’s conclusions.
A high view of Scripture includes an understanding that “texts do not just have something to say, but they they also have something to do.” This is the reason we read and study Scripture, and whatever tools we have in our hands, God will use them as they are offered to Him. For now, in these days of “seeing through a glass darkly,” my knowledge of God will be veiled no matter how much Greek I learn, but it’s nice to know that by pressing into a fuller knowledge of the Bible I can bring those bookends of “already” and “not-yet” a tiny bit closer together, adding to that fuller knowledge with a more faithful doing of the will of God.
//
This book was provided by BakerBooks, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for my review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 22, 2019
Very insightful at times. A little overwhelming at others. Overall, this was a great introduction and have me some basic foundational understandings if how the Koine Greek language works and what many if the most significant new testament words are. Most important, for me, was the systematic blueprint for how to safely interpret scripture, from an exegetical standpoint.
July 19, 2017
great books for layperson like myself
excellent books, for lay person like myself as i might not want to learn Greek for academic purposes, but this book had enlightened me of what learning Greek in its particular applications on the process of understanding the NT.
excellent books, for lay person like myself as i might not want to learn Greek for academic purposes, but this book had enlightened me of what learning Greek in its particular applications on the process of understanding the NT.
April 6, 2023
Great book for beginners with New Testament Greek or who need a quick refresher.
March 10, 2025
Learning Greek is extremely hard in an online classroom setting but this book helped tremendously
October 1, 2016
I love spending time in Bible study, and increasingly, I have had an interest in determining Greek words and meaning. I have been spending a lot of time with apps such as Blue Letter Bible, and I have been using a concordance and an expository dictionary pretty heavily as I read the New Testament. However, I would like to understand Greek and how to use Greek to do word studies, so when I received the opportunity to review Greek for Everyone: Introductory Greek for Bible Study and Application, I was hopeful that this would help my understanding of New Testament Greek.
This book starts with the basics. The Koine alphabet was introduced. We are taught levels of meaning, parts of speech, and levels of meaning. As they are explained, Thornhill uses actual examples from the Bible to explain how this affects interpretation.
Once the basics of grammar are explained, Thornhill then provides several big picture chapters of take aways for interpretation. He compares English translations. He discusses contexts. He explains the right and wrong way to do word studies. Then, he pulls things all together and discusses how grammar and context should affect our interpretation of the New Testament.
I found this to be an interesting study, and one that I will probably refer back to often. It has enhanced my awareness of how vital it is to understand the actual context and parts of speech in translation. It also has helped me to understand more about how the translations that I use for study are affected by layers of interpretation. It makes for interesting and helpful reading.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This book starts with the basics. The Koine alphabet was introduced. We are taught levels of meaning, parts of speech, and levels of meaning. As they are explained, Thornhill uses actual examples from the Bible to explain how this affects interpretation.
Once the basics of grammar are explained, Thornhill then provides several big picture chapters of take aways for interpretation. He compares English translations. He discusses contexts. He explains the right and wrong way to do word studies. Then, he pulls things all together and discusses how grammar and context should affect our interpretation of the New Testament.
I found this to be an interesting study, and one that I will probably refer back to often. It has enhanced my awareness of how vital it is to understand the actual context and parts of speech in translation. It also has helped me to understand more about how the translations that I use for study are affected by layers of interpretation. It makes for interesting and helpful reading.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Read
October 19, 2016New Testament Greek study has become a required are of study in almost every seminary. However, discrepancies regarding the most effective approach are still common among scholars. Because of that and for other reasons, novice students may feel intimidated by Greek studies. At this point, a helpful and efficient introduction to New Testament Greek is crucial.
Greek for Everyone: Introductory Greek for Bible Study and Application (A. Chadwick Thornhill, 2016) is a recently released Greek resource for beginners published by Baker. As it is common and necessary among introductory Greek books, it begins with an introduction to Koine and a table containing the Greek alphabet. Thornhill provides an introduction to the study of grammar, including phrases, clauses, and conjunctions. The first three chapters are devoted to that.
The author graciously inserts a chapter (4) where he comments resources for navigating the Greek New Testament. That is of great help considering this is a book for beginners who do not know where to start. Interlineal Bibles, lexicons, analytical lexicons/parsing aids, concordances, and grammar resources are included in this chapter. Thornhill adapts his work to new generations by providing online resources for the study of the Koine Geek. Something I personally miss is the inclusion of software and computer programs available today that have become of great help for students of the New Testament Greek. The resources the author includes are free, while most of the programs require payment (BibleWorks, Logos, etc.)
Then the author moves to grammar issues, and chapter 5 is an introduction to Greek Verbs and Nominals. He states verbs “are the movers and shakers od languages” (Thornhill, 2016, p. 35). He includes person, number, voice, tense, time, and every pertinent aspect that must be addressed in the study of Greek verbs. From here to chapter 13, the book focuses on grammatical issues at an introductory level. Chapters 14 through 18 are complementary chapters that help readers to apply what can be learned from this book. Chapter 15 is a comparison of some English translations, while Chapter 17 is a call to avoid the study of words as if this approach will constitute a solid contribution to the understanding of the New Testament Greek. Thornhill alerts readers about the dangers of using this approach. Chapter 19 is of great help as it addresses the grammar of theology. In this chapter, the author comments on hermeneutical issues and how Geek grammar fits into it, including historical context. The appendixes included at the end of the book are also of great help for those initiating in the study of the New Testament Greek.
Summarizing, this book is called to become an outstanding book for those who want to initiate their studies of the New Testament Greek by themselves or in seminary. The author made a great effort in providing a clear introduction to the study of Greek. The only objection that can be made is the non-inclusion of electronic resources (pronunciation of words, for example) directly linked to this book, though the author refers to online external resources that include that. I anticipate this book will be a primary resource for decades to serve those initiating in the study of Greek.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Greek for Everyone: Introductory Greek for Bible Study and Application (A. Chadwick Thornhill, 2016) is a recently released Greek resource for beginners published by Baker. As it is common and necessary among introductory Greek books, it begins with an introduction to Koine and a table containing the Greek alphabet. Thornhill provides an introduction to the study of grammar, including phrases, clauses, and conjunctions. The first three chapters are devoted to that.
The author graciously inserts a chapter (4) where he comments resources for navigating the Greek New Testament. That is of great help considering this is a book for beginners who do not know where to start. Interlineal Bibles, lexicons, analytical lexicons/parsing aids, concordances, and grammar resources are included in this chapter. Thornhill adapts his work to new generations by providing online resources for the study of the Koine Geek. Something I personally miss is the inclusion of software and computer programs available today that have become of great help for students of the New Testament Greek. The resources the author includes are free, while most of the programs require payment (BibleWorks, Logos, etc.)
Then the author moves to grammar issues, and chapter 5 is an introduction to Greek Verbs and Nominals. He states verbs “are the movers and shakers od languages” (Thornhill, 2016, p. 35). He includes person, number, voice, tense, time, and every pertinent aspect that must be addressed in the study of Greek verbs. From here to chapter 13, the book focuses on grammatical issues at an introductory level. Chapters 14 through 18 are complementary chapters that help readers to apply what can be learned from this book. Chapter 15 is a comparison of some English translations, while Chapter 17 is a call to avoid the study of words as if this approach will constitute a solid contribution to the understanding of the New Testament Greek. Thornhill alerts readers about the dangers of using this approach. Chapter 19 is of great help as it addresses the grammar of theology. In this chapter, the author comments on hermeneutical issues and how Geek grammar fits into it, including historical context. The appendixes included at the end of the book are also of great help for those initiating in the study of the New Testament Greek.
Summarizing, this book is called to become an outstanding book for those who want to initiate their studies of the New Testament Greek by themselves or in seminary. The author made a great effort in providing a clear introduction to the study of Greek. The only objection that can be made is the non-inclusion of electronic resources (pronunciation of words, for example) directly linked to this book, though the author refers to online external resources that include that. I anticipate this book will be a primary resource for decades to serve those initiating in the study of Greek.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
October 19, 2016
Wow! This book is much more thorough than I had expected. I had studied beginner Biblical Greek and thought this would be a good refresher book. It is that and more. It also contains some good information on interpretation and exegesis. Nearly hermeneutics in scope, I think. That too is good. But, you knew that was coming, this is no lightweight read. As such I will need much more time to read through it.
What I would like to do is to comment briefly on what I have covered so far. The author wants to present an overview of the Biblical Greek language that presents not only grammar, but some of the important points to consider for proper interpretation. His explanations are accessible and complete. I believe that this would have been helpful to me when I originally studied the language. Seems to be more of the how and why than I’d seen before. So as a review, this book will work just fine.
How about the person just meeting Greek for the first time? First of all, this book will convince most people that language study requires work. If a foreign language was required in previous schooling, then most know what that work entails and how much they come out not knowing. A couple of years of Spanish for instance, means you might be able to read simple works, but not at all prepared to converse with a native speaker or understand the nuances of his particular dialect. Same is true for Biblical Greek and the author reminds his readers of that---gently. This book will not make you an expert and that is not what most of us are seeking to achieve anyway.
What he does do well. I think, besides instilling a healthy respect for language, is to help his readers with some of the basics and point them toward an informed course for further study. His discussions of the means of communication within a language I found helpful. A word has a range of meanings; the context narrows the meaning (hopefully). Those sorts of reminders help me not to chase a rabbit too far afield.
So there’s my initial take on this book. It makes a good review book. I think it would make a great introductory work, too. He provides a few short exercises to practice what the chapter covered and an answer key. He encourages the reader to memorize a short list of vocabulary, mostly key words like the terms for heart, word, sin and the like. Along the way he has recommendations for study sources available for those that wish to dig deeper. Overall I think he accomplished his stated goal. “I approached this text intent on accomplishing two things: (1) laying a foundation for those who lack formal training in biblical language to gain insights from the original language of the New Testament, and (2) providing an exegetical framework to help guide the way in which those insights are developed.” (214-215).
I received this book from the publisher in return for a review.
What I would like to do is to comment briefly on what I have covered so far. The author wants to present an overview of the Biblical Greek language that presents not only grammar, but some of the important points to consider for proper interpretation. His explanations are accessible and complete. I believe that this would have been helpful to me when I originally studied the language. Seems to be more of the how and why than I’d seen before. So as a review, this book will work just fine.
How about the person just meeting Greek for the first time? First of all, this book will convince most people that language study requires work. If a foreign language was required in previous schooling, then most know what that work entails and how much they come out not knowing. A couple of years of Spanish for instance, means you might be able to read simple works, but not at all prepared to converse with a native speaker or understand the nuances of his particular dialect. Same is true for Biblical Greek and the author reminds his readers of that---gently. This book will not make you an expert and that is not what most of us are seeking to achieve anyway.
What he does do well. I think, besides instilling a healthy respect for language, is to help his readers with some of the basics and point them toward an informed course for further study. His discussions of the means of communication within a language I found helpful. A word has a range of meanings; the context narrows the meaning (hopefully). Those sorts of reminders help me not to chase a rabbit too far afield.
So there’s my initial take on this book. It makes a good review book. I think it would make a great introductory work, too. He provides a few short exercises to practice what the chapter covered and an answer key. He encourages the reader to memorize a short list of vocabulary, mostly key words like the terms for heart, word, sin and the like. Along the way he has recommendations for study sources available for those that wish to dig deeper. Overall I think he accomplished his stated goal. “I approached this text intent on accomplishing two things: (1) laying a foundation for those who lack formal training in biblical language to gain insights from the original language of the New Testament, and (2) providing an exegetical framework to help guide the way in which those insights are developed.” (214-215).
I received this book from the publisher in return for a review.
December 6, 2016
Greek for Everyone by A. Chadwick Thornhill presents a unique book on New Testament Greek. His stated goal is to have those reading this book learn "Greek in order to become better students of the Scripture rather than students of Greek." The aim of the book is not to "gain reading proficiency but rather are working to establish the ability to use various tools to study the text in Greek".
And I think that Thornhill accomplishes his goals with this book, he takes you through a basic (though it still seems quite thorough) overview of the various parts of Greek so that you may then use lexicons, parsing guides, and other Greek tools in your Bible study without having to become an expert Greek scholar.
Thornhill starts out by explaining that one of the most important things to do in acquiring a knowledge of Koine Greek that is useful to Bible study is to remember to keep looking for the 'big picture' in a text/passage. One of the interesting points he brings out is that "words do not have meaning", they have ranges of meaning and we only find out what exact meaning an individual word has by looking at the words that surround it, and the words that surround those words…etc. Rows of zeros are used as examples to illustrate this concept. Thornhill states, "More exegetical errors are probably made through haphazard word study than in any of the other steps in the process". I was very pleased that great emphasis is made of the fact that context is VERY important in Bible study.
Thornihill then moves on to quick overviews of Greek phrases, clauses, conjunctions, verbs, nominals, cases, participles, etc. Again, this is mainly so that you will be able to use Greek tools with comprehension in your study without having to memorize the various forms and endings that indicate the word's 'makeup' and thus its meaning and relation to the surrounding words. You will learn what the breakdown that these tools give you means, but mainly so that you know what the lexical aids mean when they break it down for you, not so that you'll break it down yourself. At the end of many of the overviews he gives you some common Biblical Greek words to memorize and then a Greek sentence to practice on using a parsing tool or an analytical lexicon.
All in all, I think that this is an excellent aid for Bible study, and probably more especially a good resource for pastors as well since seminary is SO expensive nowadays (My brother was not able to afford to go to any Seminary, though he had a desire to do so).
Many thanks to the folks at Baker Books for sending me a complimentary review copy of this book! (My review did not have to be favorable)
And I think that Thornhill accomplishes his goals with this book, he takes you through a basic (though it still seems quite thorough) overview of the various parts of Greek so that you may then use lexicons, parsing guides, and other Greek tools in your Bible study without having to become an expert Greek scholar.
Thornhill starts out by explaining that one of the most important things to do in acquiring a knowledge of Koine Greek that is useful to Bible study is to remember to keep looking for the 'big picture' in a text/passage. One of the interesting points he brings out is that "words do not have meaning", they have ranges of meaning and we only find out what exact meaning an individual word has by looking at the words that surround it, and the words that surround those words…etc. Rows of zeros are used as examples to illustrate this concept. Thornhill states, "More exegetical errors are probably made through haphazard word study than in any of the other steps in the process". I was very pleased that great emphasis is made of the fact that context is VERY important in Bible study.
Thornihill then moves on to quick overviews of Greek phrases, clauses, conjunctions, verbs, nominals, cases, participles, etc. Again, this is mainly so that you will be able to use Greek tools with comprehension in your study without having to memorize the various forms and endings that indicate the word's 'makeup' and thus its meaning and relation to the surrounding words. You will learn what the breakdown that these tools give you means, but mainly so that you know what the lexical aids mean when they break it down for you, not so that you'll break it down yourself. At the end of many of the overviews he gives you some common Biblical Greek words to memorize and then a Greek sentence to practice on using a parsing tool or an analytical lexicon.
All in all, I think that this is an excellent aid for Bible study, and probably more especially a good resource for pastors as well since seminary is SO expensive nowadays (My brother was not able to afford to go to any Seminary, though he had a desire to do so).
Many thanks to the folks at Baker Books for sending me a complimentary review copy of this book! (My review did not have to be favorable)
Want to read
September 22, 2016Title: Greek For Everyone: Introductory Greek for Bible Study and Application
Author: Chadwick Thornhill
Goodreads synopsis:
“Reading the New Testament in its original language is one of the most effective ways to gain a greater understanding of the message of the Bible. Even though Greek is important to preparation for preaching and teaching, many who are called to ministry will not be able to dedicate years of study to master the language. But a lack of mastery of Greek should not exclude us from gleaning important insight and inspiration from reading Scripture in its original language.
Now pastors, Bible study instructors, Sunday school teachers, and serious lay students of the Bible can learn the basics of biblical Greek at their own pace. Greek for Everyone explains how the Greek language works and introduces the Greek alphabet, pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar, equipping readers to understand the original meaning of the New Testament. By focusing on the takeaways that most impact interpretation, this accessible book provides a working knowledge of biblical Greek for the study of Scripture.”
Before this book I had no knowledge of the Greek language whatsoever! All I knew of it was what you hear from TV fraternities in their names, obviously not much at all. I requested this book for some basic knowledge and I would like to be able to read parts of the Bible in its original text.
This book starts off with the author explaining the basics of the language. This is so important! If you miss the basics of what makes up the language, other than just the letters, you will miss how to interpret it the way it was written.
After you complete the first chapter you move into the basics of the alphabet and letters. This book was laid out so well that it was simple to follow along. Each section was covered in full before moving onto the next step in the process so you can be sure you understand that concept before moving on. I liked how at the end of the section there were places to practice what you just learned.
This book is a basic overview of the language. You will by no means become fluent in Greek from this book but you will learn how to read some and get the basics. I learned far more from this book than I expected. If you are just looking to learn a little more so you can read some of the Bible in Greek then this book is for you. Trust me, if I can learn Greek from this book, you can too.
*I received a copy of this book from Baker Books in exchange for my honest review.
Author: Chadwick Thornhill
Goodreads synopsis:
“Reading the New Testament in its original language is one of the most effective ways to gain a greater understanding of the message of the Bible. Even though Greek is important to preparation for preaching and teaching, many who are called to ministry will not be able to dedicate years of study to master the language. But a lack of mastery of Greek should not exclude us from gleaning important insight and inspiration from reading Scripture in its original language.
Now pastors, Bible study instructors, Sunday school teachers, and serious lay students of the Bible can learn the basics of biblical Greek at their own pace. Greek for Everyone explains how the Greek language works and introduces the Greek alphabet, pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar, equipping readers to understand the original meaning of the New Testament. By focusing on the takeaways that most impact interpretation, this accessible book provides a working knowledge of biblical Greek for the study of Scripture.”
Before this book I had no knowledge of the Greek language whatsoever! All I knew of it was what you hear from TV fraternities in their names, obviously not much at all. I requested this book for some basic knowledge and I would like to be able to read parts of the Bible in its original text.
This book starts off with the author explaining the basics of the language. This is so important! If you miss the basics of what makes up the language, other than just the letters, you will miss how to interpret it the way it was written.
After you complete the first chapter you move into the basics of the alphabet and letters. This book was laid out so well that it was simple to follow along. Each section was covered in full before moving onto the next step in the process so you can be sure you understand that concept before moving on. I liked how at the end of the section there were places to practice what you just learned.
This book is a basic overview of the language. You will by no means become fluent in Greek from this book but you will learn how to read some and get the basics. I learned far more from this book than I expected. If you are just looking to learn a little more so you can read some of the Bible in Greek then this book is for you. Trust me, if I can learn Greek from this book, you can too.
*I received a copy of this book from Baker Books in exchange for my honest review.
November 1, 2016
I have good news and bad news about this book.
First the good news. It is a great resource for laypeople who want to deepen their understanding of the New Testament by gaining some knowledge of Greek. I feel Thornhill does a great job of giving readers an understanding of the basics. He covers how the Greek language works as a whole. He goes through the alphabet, pronunciation, parts of speech, verbs and nominals and how they are structured, cases, pronouns, adjectives, etc.
While he does suggest memorizing the most common 92 vocabulary words, his focus is to give skills to use information gathered (perhaps elsewhere) to exegete a passage. He does not require memorizing conjugations or declensions but does explain what each means in understanding the text. Rather than memorizing the endings in this highly inflected language, he gives many resources (books and websites) to help readers identify them. When one finds out a verb is present imperative, this book can be referenced to find out what kind of a command it is.
He has a good section on textual criticism and translations. Readers who have wondered why translations differ so will find answers to their questions here. He covers the principles involved in understanding the text, identifying the various contexts that need to be recognized. He also has a great section on how to do word studies and then what to do with them. He finally takes the reader through a suggested process of investigating a passage, providing a good list of external resources.
The aspect of this book I found totally inadequate was the index. (It's about one page in length.) It limits the usefulness of the book later on. For example, perhaps I find from another source that a verb is aorist subjunctive. That term does not appear in the index. Subjunctive mood does appear, with four page options listed. I finally found aorist subjunctive in the third listing, three pages in. The inadequate index decreases the usefulness of the book as a lay person's future resource. I suggest readers create their own extensive index as they work their way through the book so they will have easy access to information later.
I recommend this book to laypersons who want to gain a good understanding of the basics of Greek to enhance their understanding of the New Testament. If readers would create their own index as they read, this book will be a great resource for years to come.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
First the good news. It is a great resource for laypeople who want to deepen their understanding of the New Testament by gaining some knowledge of Greek. I feel Thornhill does a great job of giving readers an understanding of the basics. He covers how the Greek language works as a whole. He goes through the alphabet, pronunciation, parts of speech, verbs and nominals and how they are structured, cases, pronouns, adjectives, etc.
While he does suggest memorizing the most common 92 vocabulary words, his focus is to give skills to use information gathered (perhaps elsewhere) to exegete a passage. He does not require memorizing conjugations or declensions but does explain what each means in understanding the text. Rather than memorizing the endings in this highly inflected language, he gives many resources (books and websites) to help readers identify them. When one finds out a verb is present imperative, this book can be referenced to find out what kind of a command it is.
He has a good section on textual criticism and translations. Readers who have wondered why translations differ so will find answers to their questions here. He covers the principles involved in understanding the text, identifying the various contexts that need to be recognized. He also has a great section on how to do word studies and then what to do with them. He finally takes the reader through a suggested process of investigating a passage, providing a good list of external resources.
The aspect of this book I found totally inadequate was the index. (It's about one page in length.) It limits the usefulness of the book later on. For example, perhaps I find from another source that a verb is aorist subjunctive. That term does not appear in the index. Subjunctive mood does appear, with four page options listed. I finally found aorist subjunctive in the third listing, three pages in. The inadequate index decreases the usefulness of the book as a lay person's future resource. I suggest readers create their own extensive index as they work their way through the book so they will have easy access to information later.
I recommend this book to laypersons who want to gain a good understanding of the basics of Greek to enhance their understanding of the New Testament. If readers would create their own index as they read, this book will be a great resource for years to come.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
January 1, 2017
Greek For Everyone by A. Chadwick Thornhill is designed to allow anyone to learn the basics of biblical Greek at their own pace, even with no previous knowledge of the language. I really found the layout of this book to be easy to follow. The step-by-step progressions made it flow in such a way that I could keep track of and utilize what I learned every step of the way. Most of the chapters end with a "your turn" section encouraging you to put the new concepts to work, and a list of new words to memorize. By the end of the book, you will have memorized almost 100 basic words, which are critical to translating the New Testament. The author stresses to take your time with each chapter and really learn the material before moving on.
When I started reading this book, I had never studied the Greek language before. My own lack of knowledge became painfully obvious in chapter 1, when he first explains what Koine Greek is, and I'd never even heard the term before. So if I managed to follow and learn from this book, then I dare say the title is well earned, and it truly is "Greek For Everyone". By the end of the book, no, you don't know "everything" about the Greek language and how to translate it. After all, it is an introductory course. But you do end up with a sound working knowledge of biblical Greek, which will allow you to study and interpret the New Testament in more personal ways.
Here's a chapter listing to show the order in which concepts are introduced.
1) Language Learning, Koine Greek, and the Greek Alphabet
2) The Big Picture of Language
3) Phrases, Clauses, and Conjunctions
4) Resources for Navigating the Greek New Testament
5) Introduction to Greek Verbs and Nominals
6) Nominative, Accusative, and Vocative Cases
7) Genitive and Dative Cases
8) Articles, Pronouns, Adjectives, and Prepositions
9) (Independent) Indicative-Mood Verbs
10) (Independent) Imperative-Mood Verbs
11) (Dependent) Subjunctive-Mood Verbs
12) (Dependent) Greek Infinitives
13) (Dependent) Greek Participles
14) Back to the Big Picture
15) Comparing English Translations
16) Bridging Contexts
17) Word Studies
18) The Grammar of Theology (Putting It All Together)
*Disclaimer: I received this book free from Baker Books through the Baker Books Bloggers program. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.*
When I started reading this book, I had never studied the Greek language before. My own lack of knowledge became painfully obvious in chapter 1, when he first explains what Koine Greek is, and I'd never even heard the term before. So if I managed to follow and learn from this book, then I dare say the title is well earned, and it truly is "Greek For Everyone". By the end of the book, no, you don't know "everything" about the Greek language and how to translate it. After all, it is an introductory course. But you do end up with a sound working knowledge of biblical Greek, which will allow you to study and interpret the New Testament in more personal ways.
Here's a chapter listing to show the order in which concepts are introduced.
1) Language Learning, Koine Greek, and the Greek Alphabet
2) The Big Picture of Language
3) Phrases, Clauses, and Conjunctions
4) Resources for Navigating the Greek New Testament
5) Introduction to Greek Verbs and Nominals
6) Nominative, Accusative, and Vocative Cases
7) Genitive and Dative Cases
8) Articles, Pronouns, Adjectives, and Prepositions
9) (Independent) Indicative-Mood Verbs
10) (Independent) Imperative-Mood Verbs
11) (Dependent) Subjunctive-Mood Verbs
12) (Dependent) Greek Infinitives
13) (Dependent) Greek Participles
14) Back to the Big Picture
15) Comparing English Translations
16) Bridging Contexts
17) Word Studies
18) The Grammar of Theology (Putting It All Together)
*Disclaimer: I received this book free from Baker Books through the Baker Books Bloggers program. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.*
October 27, 2016
A great resource to help decipher the original Greek context of the Bible!
As translators have published new language versions of the Bible, certain words chosen to convey the message may not have the same implications of the original Greek text. Furthermore, the context of the actual message can be misdirected and it loses its historical accuracy. My pastor often breaks down phrases in the Bible to the original Greek and then provides the original meaning behind the phrase. But what about when studying on your own? It is not easy to simply take a verse or phrase and try to determine what the original Greek text had. Not to mention that some Greek words and characters have multiple meanings. So how do we break down what we are studying to its root?
Fortunately, A Chadwick Thornhill has published a tremendous resource for helping anyone interesting in understanding Biblical Greek text. This book provides the reader with starting guidelines to understanding the language. Although this book won’t help one fully master the Greek language, it will definitely help the reader differentiate the meaning of Greek words through context as well as noun, verb, and supporting parts of speech placement. Most chapters are short and very direct. It is easy to navigate in case you are looking for help in a specific area. Definitely a great resource to have readily available on the shelf when breaking down scripture.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
As translators have published new language versions of the Bible, certain words chosen to convey the message may not have the same implications of the original Greek text. Furthermore, the context of the actual message can be misdirected and it loses its historical accuracy. My pastor often breaks down phrases in the Bible to the original Greek and then provides the original meaning behind the phrase. But what about when studying on your own? It is not easy to simply take a verse or phrase and try to determine what the original Greek text had. Not to mention that some Greek words and characters have multiple meanings. So how do we break down what we are studying to its root?
Fortunately, A Chadwick Thornhill has published a tremendous resource for helping anyone interesting in understanding Biblical Greek text. This book provides the reader with starting guidelines to understanding the language. Although this book won’t help one fully master the Greek language, it will definitely help the reader differentiate the meaning of Greek words through context as well as noun, verb, and supporting parts of speech placement. Most chapters are short and very direct. It is easy to navigate in case you are looking for help in a specific area. Definitely a great resource to have readily available on the shelf when breaking down scripture.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
November 8, 2016
I recently received “Greek for Everyone” as a book to review through Baker Books Bloggers. Learning Greek is something that I’ve always kind of wanted to do. As a ministerial student in college I always wanted to take Greek, but I was afraid it would wreck my GPA because I’m terrible at learning foreign languages. So, when the opportunity to review this book came a long I thought I take it as my opportunity to learn Greek.
So far it has been a great introduction to Greek. I haven’t finished the book yet because I’m taking the time to create flash cards and make a genuine attempt at learning the language, but I really appreciate the layout so far. The writer does a good job at providing exercises without it feeling too much like an academic workbook.
The book seems to introduce a substantial amount of basic Greek. Enough o get you started, and hopefully enough to begin experimenting with the Greek New Testament. I also appreciate that this book doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not. It doesn’t claim to be a book that is going to have you speaking perfect Greek, or able to read Greek texts in depth, but rather a resource to get you started. I fully expect I will need to move into a more in-depth resource when I finish this book, but I think I will go into it knowing what to expect and without feeling lost.
Overall: I give this book 4 out of 5 Stars.
So far it has been a great introduction to Greek. I haven’t finished the book yet because I’m taking the time to create flash cards and make a genuine attempt at learning the language, but I really appreciate the layout so far. The writer does a good job at providing exercises without it feeling too much like an academic workbook.
The book seems to introduce a substantial amount of basic Greek. Enough o get you started, and hopefully enough to begin experimenting with the Greek New Testament. I also appreciate that this book doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not. It doesn’t claim to be a book that is going to have you speaking perfect Greek, or able to read Greek texts in depth, but rather a resource to get you started. I fully expect I will need to move into a more in-depth resource when I finish this book, but I think I will go into it knowing what to expect and without feeling lost.
Overall: I give this book 4 out of 5 Stars.
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