How to Learn Biblical Greek: The Best Resources and Strategies for Students

 Ἐγώ εἰμι τὸ φῶς τοῦ κόσμου· ὁ ἀκολουθῶν ἐμοὶ οὐ μὴ περιπατήσῃ ἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ, ἀλλ’ ἕξει τὸ φῶς τῆς ζωῆς.

ΚΑΤΑ ΙΩΑΝΝΗΝ 8:12

The old saying “It’s all Greek to me” means “I don’t understand” but what if ‘It’s all Greek to me” came with insight and understanding? Learning Biblical Greek is a rewarding journey for anyone serious about studying the New Testament in its original language. While it may seem challenging at first, with the right resources and strategies, students can successfully navigate the complexities of Greek grammar and deepen their engagement with biblical texts.

Why Learn Biblical Greek?

Studying the New Testament in its original Greek offers a richer, more nuanced understanding of the biblical text. With access to the source language, you can:

• Interpret scriptures more accurately by understanding the original words and their meanings.
• Engage in deeper theological discussions with knowledge of the Greek text.
• Strengthen your exegetical skills for preaching, teaching, or personal study.

If you’re eager to explore the Bible beyond translations, learning Biblical Greek is an essential step in your theological education.

Resources for Learning Biblical Greek

1. Greek Texts

The New Testament source language is Koine Greek - which means common. After Alexander the Great spread the Greek language through the ancient world it became the common language of trade. The New Testament was written to be read by many! 

There are several different Greek New Testaments that are available. The NA28 is generally viewed as the standard scholarly edition of the Greek New Testament and the same text (with a different system of footnotes providing information about the source manuscripts) can also be found in the United Bible Societies’ UBS5 edition. Other recent versions include the SBLGNT (Society of BIblical Literature Greek New Testament) and the Tyndale House Greek New Testament. There is free access to the SBLGNT and THGNT versions on Biblegateway, and there is also free-access version of the THGNT with full grammatical parsing available if you sign up to create an account at ESV.org. Using a Greek text regularly can improve your language skills. However remember there is strength in having time in God’s Word in your heart (original) language.

2. Interlinears

Another tool for using Greek regularly is to use an interlinear Bible. An interlinear Bible is a way of showing the English words being used to translate the Greek text. This can be a way to build your language skills as long as you don’t become reliant on it. For an example see here.

3. Bible Software Tools

Bible software can greatly assist your learning by providing easy access to Greek texts, lexicons, and grammar tools. The most popular paid options include:

• Logos Bible Software

Logos integrates various resources like Greek texts, lexicons, and commentaries into one platform, making it easy to click on any Greek word and explore its meaning, grammar, and usage.

•  Accordance Bible Software

Similar to Logos, Accordance is another powerful tool for working with Greek texts, offering in-depth analysis and study tools for students.

For a some free resources:

• Biblecrawler

Biblecrawler is a search engine that allows you to design and customise queries on a wide variety of biblical texts and lexica in a number of translations. It can also be downloaded as an app.

• BlueLetterBible.org 

Blue Letter Bible is a free, searchable online Bible program providing access to many different translations including an interlinear which includes Strong's concordance. A concordance is an alphabetical list of the Greek New Testament words found in the text.

Effective Strategies for Mastering Biblical Greek

1. Commit to Daily Practice

Language learning requires consistency. Setting aside even just 20-30 minutes a day for vocabulary review, grammar exercises, and translation practice can lead to steady improvement. Consider scheduling this time much like you would daily prayer or Bible study.

2. Engage with Greek Texts Early

To apply what you’re learning, it’s essential to start reading simple Greek passages as early as possible. Start with familiar verses from the New Testament, such as those in the Gospel of Mark, and gradually work your way to more complex texts.

Morling College’s courses encourage students to translate texts early on, with expert guidance and support to build confidence.

3. Use Flashcards for Vocabulary Building

Flashcards are a proven tool for memorising Greek vocabulary. Apps like Quizlet allow you to create digital flashcards and use spaced repetition to reinforce your memory. Many pre-made sets align with popular textbooks like "Elements of New Testament Greek." by Jeremy Duff.  For an example click here

4. Join a Study Group 

Learning Biblical Greek with others can provide encouragement and accountability. Why not invite others to study with you? Like all languages, having someone to practise with and discuss translations helps you retain what you are learning.

Free, self-paced New Testament Greek Online

Learning Biblical Greek is a transformative journey that can open up deeper insights into the New Testament and enrich your theological studies. Whether you’re just starting or looking to strengthen your skills, Morling College offers the resources to support your learning. Our free, self-paced New Testament Greek Online course is perfect for beginners, guiding you through essential grammar, vocabulary, and translation practice. By combining this course with trusted textbooks like Elements of New Testament Greek by Jeremy Duff, online tools, and daily practice, you’ll soon be engaging with biblical texts in their original language. 

Sign up for the free New Testament Greek Online course here: Morling College New Testament Greek Online

For those ready to go further, Morling College offers formal Greek studies as part of our Bachelor of Theology or as a single unit for those wanting a taste of in-depth study. Explore our courses in Bible Ministry and Theology to see how we can support your journey into biblical languages and deepen your theological knowledge.