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Context is Everything: Linguistic Context - Word Study - Why and How

This section of the Interpretation process is dedicated to word studies. In the material provided in the Module readings and resources you will find several tools to help you dig deep into both the “why” and the “how” of word studies. In short, we do wordies because the scripture we hold as sacred was written in ancient Hebrew and Greek, not English. Further, out of our Observation, we asked questions such as “what Greek word stands behind the English term “Gospel” in Mark 1:1? Now, in the Interpretation process, we are trying to answer this question as the word was employed by Mark in the first century. 

So, let’s begin walking through the material related to word studies. First, I encourage you to re-read the material in True^North chapter 9, especially pages 123-130. 

Second, work your way through the document entitled, “True^North Word Study: The Why and the How.” This is a bit dense, so I might encourage you to make notes of the material that might help you explain this to your Disciple-in-the-making. You know it's coming. With that in mind, I have included an abbreviated PowerPoint that might serve you well in that process.

Now to the heart of word studies. I want you to choose two (2) words to study which arose out of your paragraph or sentence observations in the previous module. I have included a video with step-by-step instructions plus and a word study worksheet to help in the process. Take your time and complete two word studies. The best way to learn how to do word studies is to actually do them. And the more you do, the more efficient and more proficient you will become.

Finally, I have included 2 word study samples; one from Mark 8 and one from Ephesians 4.

Remember, in the end, you are being question-driven as you do your word studies, “What is the meaning of the Greek word ________ and what are the implications? Interpretation is simply answering the questions raised in your Observational work. Always keep the entire process of True^North Bible Study in mind as you do each step. 

Now, once you have completed your work, be prepared to share it with your small group.