While I will not characterize myself as a Greek scholar, because of studying the language at WKU and at DTS, I have a working knowledge. I study with the Greek and English in parallel. In the past year or so I have been struggling with the way that some of our translations render some key terms in our versions and translations.
Κηρύσσω (kerysso) is one of those words. In your version it is probably rendered “preach”, 2 Timothy 4:2 (here @ Bible Gateway), is an example. Through history up to 2 AD, the word meant “herald” or “proclaim.” It had the sense of an ambassador or page, crying out the message of the king.
One of the challenges of translating the word “preach” is that when we read “preach” what generally comes to mind? Right, a preacher, behind a pulpit, at a church meeting. However, if we think of the word as “proclaim” then that image is not as prominent. All of us, regardless of our understanding of the Word, the length of time we have been believers or any training we have had in public speaking, can share, proclaim, what we know about Christ. John 9 (here @ Bible Gateway) is a prime example of this reality.
So in my study, when I encounter “preach” in a passage, I think of it as “proclaim”.
That led me to consider another word in a study in January.
I will share that word and the impact of its combination with κηρύσσω tomorrow. The thoughts have intrigued me for the past couple of months. I look forward to your input on how it impacts you.
One of the challenges of translating the word “preach” is that when we read “preach” what generally comes to mind? Right, a preacher, behind a pulpit, at a church meeting. However, if we think of the word as “proclaim” then that image is not as prominent. All of us, regardless of our understanding of the Word, the length of time we have been believers or any training we have had in public speaking, can share, proclaim, what we know about Christ. John 9 (here @ Bible Gateway) is a prime example of this reality.
So in my study, when I encounter “preach” in a passage, I think of it as “proclaim”.
That led me to consider another word in a study in January.
I will share that word and the impact of its combination with κηρύσσω tomorrow. The thoughts have intrigued me for the past couple of months. I look forward to your input on how it impacts you.
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