Greek & Hebrew Without Pretending

Read the text

John 1:1–18

Read the primary passage aloud twice. On the first reading, listen for the burden of the text. On the second, mark repeated words, contrasts, commands, promises, causes, and conclusions.

• Genesis 1:1–5
• Colossians 1:15–20
• Hebrews 1:1–4

Language desk

Words that clarify—not words that perform.

Confirm each gloss by its use in this context. A lexicon offers possibilities; the sentence, paragraph, author, and canon determine what a word is doing here.

Form the doctrine

The theological claim

Word meaning is controlled by usage and context, not a list of possible glosses.

Defense drill

Say it under pressure.

Expose the ‘root fallacy’ and the error of importing every dictionary meaning into one verse.

• State the opposing claim in a form its adherent could recognize.
• Open the controlling passage and establish the immediate context.
• Make one clear argument before adding supporting texts.
• Ask a diagnostic question, listen to the answer, and return to Christ and the gospel.

Wednesday assignment

Carry the truth into the week.

Compare three translations of John 1:18 and record what remains unchanged.