Reading your Greek New Testament requires you to assume the role of a biblical detective, searching for clues as to the meaning of the text. Here I'm going to suggest 7 strategies that can turn you into a first-rate reader.
1. Physical copy only.
2. Bring your Greek New Testament with you everywhere you go. I've read my Greek New Testament on planes and in restaurants, while I'm waiting at the doctor's office, while waiting for a tow truck, and many other times and places. I'm never without it.
3. Always have a pen handy. Some people may recoil in horror at the thought of marking up the Bible, but as a lover of books I have no problem with it.
4. Keep a notebook with you. "We should hunt out the helpful pieces of teaching ... which are capable of immediate practical application" (Seneca).
5. Beat them up. I've had my Greek New Testament rebound 3 times. It's falling apart again.
6. Speed reading is discouraged. You have to spend a lot of time in your passage to truly benefit from it.
7. Don't be afraid to revisit the same passages over and over again. "You never step into the same river twice" (Chinese proverb).
In short, read:
- regularly
- repeatedly
- thoughtfully
- patiently
- selectively
- prayerfully
- meditatively
- purposefully
- acquisitively
As you dive into your Greek New Testament for yourself, relax and enjoy the experience. God's truth is there, and you'll find it if you just give yourself enough time.