Exegetically Speaking

Beneath the surface of fairly stable English translations of 1 Corinthians 1:30 there flow quite varied interpretations of the Greek language Paul uses. Jon C. Laansma is the Gerald F. Hawthorne Professor of New Testament Greek and Exegesis in the Classical Languages program at Wheaton College, and the Wheaton-based director of this podcast series. He is currently working on a commentary on 1 Corinthians for the T&T Clark International Theological Commentary series. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3SFcxcR  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/45dIW1H 

The choice for Israel is between quiet trust and anxious haste in an important prophetic passage. Prof. Schultz explains the background, Hebrew imagery, and the NT's interpretation of Isaiah 28:16. Dr. Richard Schultz is the Blanchard Professor of Old Testament in Wheaton College Graduate School. In addition to other publications, he has authored Out of Context: How to Avoid Misinterpreting the Bible and The Search for Quotation: Verbal Parallels in the Prophets; he has co-edited with Daniel Block, Bind Up the Testimony: Explorations in the Genesis of the Book of Isaiah. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3EWIdHE  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/42Pce5h 

Dan. 5:2, within the Aramaic portion of Daniel, has always been taken to refer to the king, his nobles, his wives, and his concubines, but a fresh look at the Aramaic and its context suggests that the last were female officials, not concubines. Dr. Aubrey Buster, who has been with us before, is Associate Professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College. Her publications include Remembering the Story of Israel: Historical Summaries and Memory Formation in Second Temple Judaism. She and John Walton are co-authoring a major commentary on Daniel (NICOT). The first volume on Daniel 1-6 is due out soon. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4m02lJy  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4jUhz0K 

The Greek word usually translated as ‘righteousness' in the Beatitudes (and elsewhere), is closer to the concept of ‘justice,' signaling the down-to-earth concern of a people living under an unjust regime. Dr. George Kalantzis grew up in Athens, Greece, and has been at Wheaton College since 2007, where he is Professor of Theology and the Director of The Wheaton Center for Early Christian Studies. Among his publications are Theodore of Mopsuestia: The Gospel of John and Caesar and the Lamb. He has co-authored, Evangelicals and the Early Church. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3EDw2zf  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4lLI2zm. 

The M.A. in Biblical Exegesis at Wheaton has been running for about a quarter of a century and it recently broadened its mission to enroll remote learners. Prof. Abernethy explains this transition, along with the program's resolute commitment to the acquisition and use of the original languages. Dr. Andrew Abernethy, a frequent contributor to this podcast, is Professor of Old Testament, Assistant Dean of Biblical and Theological Studies in the Litfin Divinity School, and Program Director of the M.A. in Biblical Exegesisat Wheaton Graduate School. He is currently President of the Institute of Biblical Literature.  Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4jwANK8  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4cYI6Ic 

In this 300th episode of Exegetically Speaking, we hear once again from Dr. Michael Bird. This time he is highlighting how the knowledge of Greek enables us to understand alternative interpretations of a critical Pauline passage. What do Paul's uses of the perfect tense and genitive case convey in speaking of participation in Christ's crucifixion and the life of faith? Prof. Bird is Deputy Principal and Lecturer in New Testament at Ridley College (Melbourne, Australia). His many publications include Romans: Greek-English Interlinear | Paraphrase | Study Notes, Jesus among the gods: Early Christology in the Greco-Roman World, and (with N. T. Wright) Jesus and the Powers: Christian Political Witness in an Age of Totalitarian Terror and Dysfunctional Democracies. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3Y07pTQ  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/44qhNrW 

The poem in Nahum 1 breaks its stride in 1:7, in terms of both the Hebrew poetic structure and thematic emphasis. In part by this means, it implicitly asks its Israelite readers, some of whom may have been collaborators with Assyria, whether they side with the Lord or the Lord's enemies. Dr. Mario Tafferner is Assistant Professor of Old Testament Language and Literature at Tyndale Theological Seminary, in Badhoevedorp, The Netherlands. His two most recent publications deal with "The Question of Future Hope in 2 Kgs 25.27–30" in Journal for the Study of the Old Testament (2024) and the translation of "Line 12 of the Mesha Inscription in Light of Shared Scribal Practices in Moab and Ancient South Arabia" in MAARAV (2024). Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3Rbjzpd  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3Rgdnwe 

Dr. Gisela Kreglinger, who grew up on a family-owned winery in Franconia, Germany, is an independent researcher who long ago noticed the peculiar prominence of wine and vineyards in both the Old and New Testaments. In this episode she talks about learning the biblical languages in preparation for her work and their contribution to a sound understanding of the Bible's topics. In doing so, she highlights some key lessons taught through the agricultural theme of wine and vineyards in the Bible. Dr. Kreglinger has published Cup Overflowing: Wine's Place in Faith, Feasting, and Fellowship and The Spirituality of Wine, among other things. She also contributed articles to The Oxford Companion to Wine. In a different vein, she wrote, Storied Revelations: Parables, Imagination, and George MacDonald's Christian Fiction.  Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4lg6oB2  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3Yh1ud6 

Jennifer Powell McNutt, PhD, is the Franklin S. Dyrness Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies, Professor of Theology and History of Christianity, Director of M.A. in History of Christianity, and Director of M.A. in Theology at Wheaton Graduate School. She talks about how the biblical languages played a part in her preparation for her work as a church historian, how these languages catalyzed other learning, how they have fueled her scholarship, and also the part that the biblical languages played in the Reformation itself. Some of Prof. McNutt's recent research concentrates on the biblical personage, Mary Magdalene. Prof. McNutt has co-edited The Oxford Handbook of the Bible and the Reformationand authored The Mary We Forgot: What the Apostle to the Apostles Teaches the Church Today, among other things.  Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4bQP4OX  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/41NzGhF 

Mike Woodruff is the lead pastor at Christ Church (Chicago) and chairs the board for the Lakelight Institute. In this episode, he talks about taking Greek and Hebrew as a student preparing for ministry, and the continuing value of the languages for his teaching. Pastor Woodruff's publications include, The Life of Jesus Christ,  FutureView: Gaining Perspective on the Rising Waves of Change, Broken and On the News. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4iKSnt4  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4hx1cWt 

In 2 Chr. 17:3-6, remarkable things are said of King Jehoshaphat, culminating in a Hebrew word play that correlates the state of Jehoshaphat's heart with the Asherim that he tears down while seeking to elevate the Lord. Mark Lanier is a practicing attorney, a teacher in his local church in Houston, Texas, and the founder of the Lanier Theological Library (co-sponsor of this podcast) among other projects in service of the church. His publications include New Testament Letters for Living: Daily Prayers, Wisdom, and Guidance, and Atheism on Trial: A Lawyer Examines the Case for Unbelief. He has contributed earlier episodes to this podcast, which you will find at our website (scroll down there to find the searchable list). Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3XSbmd7   M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3XPR5F2 

Both Moses and God are popularly thought of as the opposite of grace as portrayed in the Old Testament. Exodus 34 tells the story of a God who does measure out justice to his creation, but magnifies his grace far beyond measure. The difference is that of the life-horizons of an individual contrasted with countless generations. Dr. K. Lawson Younger is Emeritus Professor of Old Testament and Semitic Languages at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. His publications include A Political History of the Arameans: From their Origins to the End of Their Polities, which won the Biblical Archaeology Society 2017 Publication Award for Best Scholarly Book on Archaeology, and Ancient Conquest Accounts: A Study in Ancient Near Eastern and Biblical History Writing. He was Seymour Gitin Distinguished Professor at the Albright Institute of Archaeological Research in Jerusalem, Israel (2012–13). Music credit for this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRCip6D9uxg. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/41OqpXG  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4heGTgb 

In the laments of Isaiah 63 and 64, God is asked to look down at his people in salvation. In Isaiah 66 a response comes, declaring at whom the Lord will look: Those in Israel afflicted by this world, who tremble at his word. Dr. Andrew Abernethy is Professor of Old Testament, Assistant Dean of Biblical and Theological Studies in the Litfin Divinity School, and Program Director of the M.A. in Biblical Exegesis at Wheaton Graduate School. Among other things, he has published, The Book of Isaiah and God's Kingdom: A Thematic-Theological Approach and Eating in Isaiah: Approaching the Role of Food and Drink in Isaiah's Structure and Message. He is currently President of the Institute of Biblical Literature.  Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4bcR9UU  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4baJGps 

Even in translation, Psalm 1, a favorite of many, can be appreciated for its art and truth. All the more in Hebrew, through which we can see and hear how the psalmist employs letters, repetition of words, sounds, and other devices to convey meaning. Dr. Frederico Villanueva is Regional Commissioning Editor for Langham Publishing and Scholar Care Coordinator of current Asian Langham scholars. His publications include It's OK to be Not OK: Preaching the Lament Psalms, Psalms 1-72: A Pastoral and Contextual Commentary, and Psalms 73-150: A Pastoral and Contextual Commentary. He teaches at the Asia Graduate School of Theology and Loyola School of Theology in Manila. HEBREW Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3XaQMEB M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4i722Ka 

Phil. 2:6-11 is and deserves to be one of the most studied passages on Christ in the biblical writings. One grammatical question concerns a participle in v. 6, which is usually understood as concessive (“although”). But might Paul intend a causal sense (“because”)? The implications are profound. Dr. Michael Gorman is Raymond E. Brown Professor of Biblical Studies and Theology at St. Mary's Seminary & University. He has published numerous works, including Inhabiting the Cruciform God: Kenosis, Justification, and Theosis in Paul's Narrative Soteriology and (March, 2025) 1 Corinthians: A Theological, Pastoral, and Missional Commentary. Among his current projects, he is writing Philippians: A Theological, Pastoral, and Missional Commentary (Eerdmans). Music credit for this episode: https://youtu.be/YII4o33rJdA?si=Azg_r4FuTkJ97B3K. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4aRQAjd  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3CKZoL5 

The prophet Isaiah anticipates what Israel will one day sing, and the words draw directly from the great song of deliverance sung by Moses, as if Isaiah had a copy to hand. Dr. Andrew Abernethy is Professor of Old Testament, Assistant Dean of Biblical and Theological Studies in the Litfin Divinity School, and Program Director of the M.A. in Biblical Exegesis at Wheaton Graduate School. Among other publications, he has co-edited Isaiah and Intertextuality: Isaiah Amid Israel's Scriptures, and authored Discovering Isaiah: Content, Interpretation, Reception. He is currently President of the Institute of Biblical Literature. Music credit for this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUInh1gDnLI. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/40NODQk  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3Q6deed 

Theology ought to be ruled by the biblical text. So says Prof. Yarnell, a systematic theologian who studied Hebrew and Greek and who makes careful use of those languages in his work. In this episode he explains the importance of the languages for theological reasoning generally, and specifically with reference to an OT text that was debated by Church Fathers such as Athanasius. Dr. Malcolm Yarnell III is Research Professor of Theology at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and is Teaching Pastor at Lakeside Baptist Church. His publications include Who Is the Holy Spirit?: Biblical Insights into His Divine Person and God, Volume 1 of Theology for Every Person. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3EttnHM  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4hnyYOM 

English plurals of “mass nouns” (uncountable nouns, such as milk, water) indicate kinds (e.g., cow or goat milks) or multiple instances (e.g., “grab three waters”), but Greek has a third option for the same plurals: an “abundance inference.” Realizing this can sharpen our understanding of certain passages. Travis Wright (PhD, University of Cambridge) is a scholar based in Raleigh, NC. His research focuses on the semantics/pragmatics interface in biblical interpretation and translation. He is one of the authors at Koine-Greek.com. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3CfoGRq   M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4hm5NuK 

The opening words of Philemon prompt us to ask in what sense Paul is a prisoner in relation to Christ. In part this is a grammatical question, but a couple of contemporaneous papyri texts might supply hints as to the cultural understanding. Dr. Seth Ehorn is Assistant Professor of Classics and Biblical Languages at Houston Christian University. Among other things, he has published 2 Maccabees 1-7: A Handbook on the Greek Text and 2 Maccabees 8-15: A Handbook on the Greek Text, both in the Baylor Handbook on the Septuagint Series. He is currently working on a commentary on Paul's Letter to Philemon. He has contributed a few episodes to Exegetically Speaking, including one on Philemon 2. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3DKJ0KE  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4afuir9 

In Jeremiah 32:36, a discourse marker is used that would most often signal bad news is coming, sort of like the “Jaws theme” music in a movie. But here it surprises the reader with good news. Jack Messarra completed a master's degree at the University of Stellenbosch in the field of Hebrew, linguistics, and discourse markers. You can see some of his papers at https://sun.academia.edu/JackMessarra. He and his wife, Loren, are missionaries with Mesa Global. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/424NV3l  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4acyPKZ 

Prof. N. T. “Tom” Wright returns to our podcast to discuss Eph. 3:10 and its vision for the church in the present age: God's “intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known.” God created us so that through us he could show the world who he is, in particular, by a community of all races and nations drawn together in love. Rev. Dr. N. T. Wright is Research Professor Emeritus of New Testament and Early Christianity at St Mary's College in the University of St Andrews and Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford. His work has established him as the foremost voice among New Testament scholars of the present generation, not least due to his many commentaries, topical studies, and the multi-volume, Christian Origins and the Question of God. This episode aired previously on 9/9/24. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3DCWeZN  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4gM1Yid 

Dr. Nancy Dawson holds a M.S. in plant taxonomy and Ph.D. in biology/cell biology. After teaching in that field at Western Kentucky University and Texas A&M, she attended Duke Divinity School. She now works as an independent scholar in theology and has published All the Genealogies of the Bible: Visual Charts and Exegetical Commentary (Zondervan, 2023). In this episode she draws upon that research to shed light on Jesus' parents, their relationship to each other and to Elizabeth, and how these people and relationships help us understand who Jesus is. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3ZHQ6YU  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3D4iWtP 

Eve's words about her newborn son, Seth, which are her last recorded words, echo the Hebrew words to the serpent in Gen. 3:15, signaling Eve's persevering hope in God's deliverance. Dr. Ingrid Faro, who has contributed to this podcastbefore, is Professor of Old Testament at Northern Seminary in Lisle, IL. Among other things, she is the author of Evil in Genesis: A Contextual Analysis of Hebrew Lexemes for Evil in the Book of Genesis and Demystifying Evil: A Biblical and Personal Exploration. She is working on a new book provisionally entitled, Bold Women: Advancing the Storyline of Scripture (Zondervan). Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/415XqP6  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4fKqWON 

Some claim that John 1:1 states that Jesus is ‘a god.' Others claim that it states that Jesus is God. What is in fact the best way of understanding the Greek language employed? Grammatical parallels can shed some light. Dr. Michael Licona is Professor of New Testament at Houston Christian University. His publications include Why Are There Differences in the Gospels?: What We Can Learn from Ancient Biography and Behold, I Stand at the Door and Knock: What to say to Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses when they knock on your door.  Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3CGfLrR  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3CHEbkM  

In his previous conversation centered on Rom. 1:16-17, Roy Ciampa contextualized the unique phrase ἐκ πίστεως (translated there as, “through faith”) in Greek writings generally and Romans in particular. He now studies this phrase throughout Galatians, with special reference to Gal. 2:16. In addition to his posts at Samford University and Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary mentioned in the notes to the earlier episode, Dr. Ciampa has served as manager for integrated training at American Bible Society's Nida Institute for Biblical Scholarship, lectured and taught internationally, and was earlier a missionary professor of biblical studies in Portugal where he served as a translator for the Portuguese Bible Society's contemporary Portuguese translation of the Bible. For more detail on the topic of this episode, see Roy E. Ciampa, “Habakkuk 2:4 in Galatians: Rewritings and Snippet Quotations,” pp. 77-94 in Scriptures, Texts, and Tracings in Galatians and 1 Thessalonians. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4fYAKEC  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4eIrBiH  

Nowhere in all known Greek writings is the precise phrase ἐκ πίστεως (“out of” or “from faith”) found until the Greek version of Habakkuk 2:4, and some of the scribes transmitting that text altered it. It is this phrasing that Paul adopts in the crucial lines of Roman 1:16-17, and rewords elsewhere. What, then, was the intended sense of this unique wording? Dr. Roy E. Ciampa recently retired as S. Louis and Ann W. Armstrong Professor of Religion and chair of the Department of Biblical and Religious studies at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama. He is currently teaching at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary, where he was previously on faculty. His publications include The Presence and Function of Scripture in Galatians 1 and 2 (WUNT 2/102) and (with Brian Rosner) The First Letter to the Corinthians (PNTC). For more detail on the topic of this episode, see Roy E. Ciampa, “Habakkuk 2:4 in Romans: Echoes, Allusions, and Rewriting,” pp. 11-29 of Scripture, Texts, and Tracings in Romans.  Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/40QfwEB  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4fLnZxd 

The Greek language Paul uses in 1 Corinthians 15 to convey the gospel's teaching of Jesus' resurrection lodges this in authoritative tradition dating back to months after the events. The center of God's self-revelation and salvation is more firmly attested than anything else in Scripture. Dr. Gary Habermas is Distinguished Research Professor in the School of Divinity, Liberty University, Virginia. His many important publications include, On the Resurrection, Volume 1: Evidences and On the Resurrection, Volume 2: Refutations; there will be two more volumes in the series.  Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3O8yMWg  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/40JbMVx 

What happens when your modern English translation renders the meaning of biblical names, connecting this with the practices of the ancient Hebrews and traditional Native Americans? Terry M. Wildman, of Ojibwe and Yaqui ancestry, is the Lead Translator, Editor, and Project Manager of the First Nations Version. He is the Director of Spiritual Growth and Leadership Development for Native InterVarsity, and the founder of the non-profit Rain Ministries. He has previously served as a pastor and worship leader. Terry and his wife, Darlene, live in Maricopa, Arizona, on the traditional lands of the Pima and Tohono O'odham. Together, they are the Grammy-nominated and Nammy award-winning musical duo and recording artists known as RainSong. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4e00ejF  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3A3ZDQd 

An important verb in Gal. 5:2 could be either passive voice or middle voice. It is translated, “if you accept circumcision” (ESV) or “if ye be circumcised” (KJV) or “if you have yourselves circumcised” (NAB). Verse 4 is sometimes translated, “You are severed from Christ” (ESV) or “You . . . have been alienated from Christ” (NIV). Consideration of the Greek wording is critical for our understanding. Dr. Jeremiah Coogan, Assistant Professor of New Testament at the Jesuit School of Theology, Santa Clara University, is an alum of Wheaton College's Classical Languages major. He was the 2021 recipient of the Paul J. Achtemeier Award for New Testament Scholarship, and his publications include Eusebius the Evangelist: Rewriting the Fourfold Gospel in Late Antiquity (Oxford University Press). Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/48lnN5o M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3UnbIXs 

Does Rom. 13:1 leave room for sanctioned rebellion against a government? Take 1775 for example. Dr. Michael Bird is Deputy Principal and Lecturer in New Testament at Ridley College (Melbourne, Australia). His many publications include Romans: Greek-English Interlinear | Paraphrase | Study Notes, Jesus among the gods: Early Christology in the Greco-Roman World, and (with N. T. Wright) Jesus and the Powers: Christian Political Witness in an Age of Totalitarian Terror and Dysfunctional Democracies. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3Y9f6X7  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4dUMkzo 

In Jesus' prayer of John 17 he prays for future generations of believers with special emphasis on their oneness. Karen Jobes provides a close reading of the Greek of this astonishing and vital passage. Dr. Karen Jobes is Gerald F. Hawthorne Professor of New Testament Greek and Exegesis, Emerita, at Wheaton College & Graduate School. She has authored many books and articles, including John Through Old Testament Eyes: A Background and Application Commentary, and commentaries on Esther, 1 Peter, and 1, 2, 3 John. She served for years on the Committee for Bible Translation (responsible for the NIV translation of the Bible). Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3XW4quI  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3By5Tjq 

Greek verbs have been traditionally labeled “tenses,” but many grammarians have for some time argued that “tense” is not the best way to explain what is going on. The linguistic category of “aspect” is a more powerful theoretical explanation. But what is “verbal aspect” and how does this theory affect the reading of Greek texts? Dr. Constantine Campbell is Professor and Research Director at the Sydney College of Divinity (Norwest, Australia). He has published widely on Koiné Greek grammar and the New Testament writings. Examples include, Basics of Verbal Aspect in Biblical Greek and The Letter to the Ephesians. The Pillar New Testament Commentary. He is also a jazz saxophonist and a visiting instructor at The Australian National University School of Music.  Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4elFSSP  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3zDIfl0 

Because he was known for his baptisms, and because English transliterates the Greek words, John's nickname as “the Baptist” provokes little thought. It ought to. Dr. James F. McGrath is Clarence L. Goodwin Chair in New Testament Language and Literature at Butler University. His publications include Christmaker: A Life of John the Baptist and (forthcoming), John of History, Baptist of Faith: The Quest for the Historical Baptizer. He co-edited, The Mandaean Book of John: Critical Edition, Translation, and Commentary. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3Blt406  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3zpFfIW 

Phil. 1:27 is translated by the NIV as, “conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel,” while the NLT translates it as, “you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News.” Here and in 3:20 Paul is using a Greek verb and noun that he uses nowhere else in his letters, aside from a related word in Eph. 2:12. What is the implied message in using this language while addressing this particular church? Dr. Jeannine Brown is the David Price Professor of Biblical and Theological Foundations at Bethel Seminary. Her many publications include Philippians: An Introduction and Commentary and Scripture as Communication: Introducing Biblical Hermeneutics. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3MyAQGD  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/47fHaw8 

The Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6 reads in the NIV: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” In the Greek wording, the first occurrence of the word ‘heaven' is plural in form, but the second is singular. Close attention to this difference across the Greek OT and NT reveals a difference in meaning between those forms of the same word. Dr. Scott Hafemann is Honorary Reader in New Testament at St. Mary's College, the University of St. Andrews, and was the first holder of the Gerald F. Hawthorne Chair of New Testament Greek and Exegesis at Wheaton College. His many publications include Paul: Servant of the New Covenant: Pauline Polarities in Eschatological Perspective, and 2 Corinthians: From Biblical Text - to Contemporary Life (NIV Application Commentary). Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3MD7nLq  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/47fdj6Q 

Prof. N. T. “Tom” Wright returns to our podcast to discuss Eph. 3:10 and its vision for the church in the present age: God's “intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known.” God created us so that through us he could show the world who he is, in particular, by a community of all races and nations drawn together in love. Rev. Dr. N. T. Wright is Research Professor Emeritus of New Testament and Early Christianity at St Mary's College in the University of St Andrews and Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford. His work has established him as the foremost voice among New Testament scholars of the present generation, not least due to his many commentaries, topical studies, and the multi-volume, Christian Origins and the Question of God. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3zbWrl0  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/47lwSe2 

The Gospels tell us the story of John the Baptist and Jesus in distinct ways. Mark's narrative is a fast-moving action story, comparable in some ways to John Grisham's style. Attention to Mark's use of the aorist tense in particular helps us appreciate where the real action is. Michael Kibbe earned his Ph.D. at Wheaton Graduate School, and is Associate Professor of Bible at Great Northern University, Spokane, Washington, a gem of a program. For more information about Great Northern University in Spokane, visit their website: https://gnu.edu. Among Michael's publications are, Godly Fear or Ungodly Failure?: Hebrews 12 and the Sinai Theophanies and From Topic to Thesis: A Guide to Theological Research, which was followed by From Research to Teaching: A Guide to Beginning Your Classroom Career. GREEK Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4dpd6k1  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3X7hH4w 

Psalm 46 is a psalm for our moment, and its encouraging message is amplified when read in Hebrew. The psalm reminds us that amidst the nations in uproar, and battles, and devastations, and mountains falling into the sea, the God of Jacob is our high fortress, lifting us above the chaos. Our instinct in turmoil is to tighten our grip on things. The psalmist advises us to let go and know that the Lord is God. Dr. Megan Roberts is an alumna of the M.A. in Biblical Exegesis at Wheaton College, and Professor of Old Testament and Program Director of Bible/Theology at Prairie College, Alberta, Canada. Her dissertation, Memory Formation in Isaiah 40–55: Healing to Accomplish Comfort, is forthcoming with Brill. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3As5Gxy  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4der6wI 

1 Peter 2:23 is translated in the NIV as, “When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats.” Close attention to the Greek grammar can illuminate that Christ's non-retaliation was an enduring one, outlasting the repeated attacks made on him. Dr. Darian Lockett is Professor of New Testament at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University, and a teaching elder in the Presbyterian Church in America. Among his publications are, Letters for the Church: Reading James, 1-2 Peter, 1-3 John, and Jude as Canon and Letters from the Pillar Apostles: The Formation of the Catholic Epistles as a Canonical Collection. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3yeGTfX  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4d6MGmV 

In Daniel 12:2-3 the dead awake, some to life, some to shame and contempt. This has long been understood to refer to bodily resurrection, one of a few such OT passages. But there are indications in the text's language that its intended sense is otherwise. John Walton, Old Testament Professor Emeritus at Wheaton Graduate School, is a frequent contributor to this podcast. One of his most recent publications is The Lost World of the Prophets: Old Testament Prophecy and Apocalyptic Literature in Ancient Context. Among his others, note also: Wisdom for Faithful Reading: Principles and Practices for Old Testament Interpretation. He is currently working with Dr. Aubrey Buster(Associate Professor of OT at Wheaton College) on a commentary on Daniel. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4c8xjcd  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3Mbc2UZ 

1 Timothy 4:1 is translated by the NLT, “Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith.” Some take the Greek behind “the last times” to mean “the last days,” the extreme end of history. But is that Paul's meaning? Dr. Jermo van Nes is Assistant Professor of New Testament at Evangelische Theologische Faculteit, Leuven, Belgium. Among his publications are, (co-editor) Let God Be True: Perspectives on Romans 3, (author) Pauline Language and the Pastoral Epistles, and (co-editor), Drawing and Transcending Boundaries in the New Testament and Early Christianity.   Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4cNrBO3  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3LujQjY 

Proverbs 15:12 is translated, “mockers resent correction” (NIV), “scoffers do not like to be rebuked” (NRSV), “mockers hate to be corrected” (NLT), and in other ways. Close attention to the Hebrew wording enhances our awareness of the character type (the scoffer) and the response to reproof (does not love it). Dr. Arthur Keefer is a Presbyterian Minister at the Scots' Church in Melbourne and an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Divinity (Trinity College, Melbourne). His publications include, Ecclesiastes and the Meaning of Life in the Ancient World, and (co-editor) The Cambridge Companion to Biblical Wisdom Literature. Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/3LgaoAH  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/3Yfno1t