Greek Word Study: 90 Ancient Words That Unlock Scripture

by Chris Palmer

“Flour. Sheep. Coins. Wheat. Jesus never abandoned the familiarity of His time because what He had to say was so celestial or deep. Instead, He took advantage of what people already understood. In doing so, He didn’t just leave a way of salvation for us, but also a pattern of teaching to follow. This alone was my inspiration for how I chose to write Greek Word Study.”—author Chris Palmer In a follow-up to his highly acclaimed book Letters from Studies from the Seven Churches of Revelation, the Rev. Chris Palmer has written Greek Word 90 Ancient Words That Unlock Scripture. With wit, humor, grace, and scholarship, Chris offers biblical insights while teaching Koine Greek words and phrases one delightful bite at a time. Unlike other books that overwhelm readers with Greek grammar, word formation, tenses, and the like, Chris makes the language accessible to anyone, using modern stories and analogies that engage readers and draw them into the Scriptures. Learning some Greek words and phrases helps you read the Bible in high definition! “You don’t need to be a scholar to read this book and you don’t need to know an ounce of Greek either. In fact, you don’t even have to really know much about the Bible at all,” Chris says. “All you need to do is just kick back and enjoy.”  

420 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 11, 2020

About the author

Chris Palmer is an environmental and wildlife film producer who has swum with dolphins and whales, come face-to-face with Kodiak bears, and camped with wolf packs. Chris has spent 25 years producing more than 300 hours of original programming for prime time television and the giant screen (IMAX) film industry. Born in Hong Kong, Chris grew up in England and immigrated to the United States in 1972. He is married to Gail Shearer and the father of three grown daughters (Kim, Christina and Jenny)."

Reviews

[Chautona Havig · Rating 4 out of 5]

What Crazy Idiot Would Ever Want to Learn Greek?

This one.  And I was eager to see what I'd learn from this book.

Greek Word Study offers an interesting look into the meanings of not only specific Greek words in the New Testament but also the words that those words were derived from.

In a casual, conversational style, the author offers a simple introduction to many of the words we think we're familiar with and shows the origins of those words. 

First off, this book isn't really what I expected from the title or synopsis, but it really is exactly what he said it is.  Inside, you find an easy to read and simple look at some of the Greek words that pack a punch and will enrich your understanding of the Bible.

Some of the things he said didn't make sense to me.  Ip front he says that commentaries are difficult to read. I always go to commentaries to make sense of some otherwise unclear Bible passage to make it clear!  So, I started off not quite understanding what he was talking about.  Still, that's probably just my weirdness showing through.  I wouldn't be surprised.

I do have one strong objection to parts of the book. 

An overall feeling that the author was trying to make the Greek of the Bible "relevant" to today instead of trying to remind us that we need to make our lives relevant to the Word permeated most of the examples.  

For instance:  Meme.  That was what he used to show what the word for "Be imitators of God" means.  He went into a lot of explanation for where "meme" came from and then tried to apply it to the lesson. In that same section, he talked about actors and Hollywood, and actually, that analogy clicked more and felt less frivolous to me.  That feels really weird to write.

Then there was the "Whole armor of God" bit.  Hockey helmets.  The history of their use and when they weren't--same for soccer and some sort of padding.  The whole time I thought, "Because we don't know what a sword or shield is?  No one has seen Captain America or Gladiator?  What?

Several of the word analogies and explanations really stuck with me, though.

The one for "unsearchable" was probably my favorite, but then I think of "parresia" (diacritic over the E).  Seriously, the way he described that combined with prayer made it all just come alive.  THAT I loved.

As a whole, I'm liking the book.  It is taking much longer to read through it than I expected. I keep rereading and rereading, trying to really get out of it what is in there. That plus readjusting my expectation of what he means by a "Greek Word Study" (we don't agree on that) is what bumped this book to a 4-star rating.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a lover of words and languages, reading has always been my favorite pastime, and I am one of those people who reads the dictionary for fun, always looking to add to my vocabulary. I took Latin in college and fell in love with it, especially due to the fact that it forms the foundation for so many of our English words. As soon as I saw the title of Chris Palmer’s “Greek Word Study”, signing up to review it was a no-brainer; last year I read and thoroughly enjoyed his book “Letters From Jesus,” so I enthusiastically dove into this new offering.

Because I wanted to study and savor each of the 90 terms that Palmer discusses, it took me much longer than usual to read this book, and it is one that I can unequivocally say I will be rereading. I very much appreciate Palmer’s deep yet easy-to-understand teaching about each word, presenting both the word and the Scripture first in English, then in Koine Greek (the original language of the New Testament), followed by a relevant contemporary story or application and an explanation of what the Scripture and the particular Greek word mean in Biblical context. With an emphasis on inflection, he makes connections between familiar verses and the culture of the time, demonstrating how the original early church audience would have understood the words and stories.

Some of the words that Palmer writes about in “Greek Word Study” that fascinate me the most involve how we need to conduct ourselves as Christians and our relationship with the Lord. He instructs that “panoplian”, for instance, refers to the whole armor of God, and while discussing “execheo” (sound forth), he exhorts that “If you aren’t already, believe God to make you a Krakatoa for the kingdom.” Considering that the eruption of Krakatoa in 1883 exhibited the loudest sound known to history, this is an incredible hint at what God can do through us. Likewise, with “poiema” (workmanship), he references Ephesians 2:10 and Romans 1:20, pointing out that “By using poiema in his letter to the Ephesians, Paul makes a connection between those who are in Christ and the creation account in Genesis.” One more example is particularly timely; “nepho” means sober-minded, and Palmer teaches that we need to take God’s Word into account in all that we see, hear, and do. “So, mix your media intake with the Word.” I think that this is always sage advice, and never more so than in this present time!

One relatively minor quibble I have is that Palmer writes that “Humans have inhabited Crete for at least 130,000 years”, which goes against the basic tenet of young earth creationism. That issue aside, however, I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in studying Scripture more deeply and gaining a greater understanding of early church culture. Those who enjoy languages will find “Greek Word Study” of particular interest, but no knowledge of foreign languages, Greek or otherwise, is necessary. At the end of the book, there is both a Greek-English and an English-Greek index of all of the terms studied for additional reference. I hope that our words echo those of Solon the Athenian: “I grow old always learning many things.”

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this book. It is a good one for Christians who would like insight into major Greek words used in the Bible but do not have the time or ability to study the language. He covers ninety major words. Each word study provides good examples of the word meaning and good teaching. Palmer includes much more than just the precise definition and use of the biblical word.

I like that Palmer does not shy away from controversial issues, even when viewpoints have recently changed because of a change in the culture. My favorite study was on endurance. Palmer provides a good example of the meaning of the word. The Greek gives the idea of having enough strength to stay until the attack is over. A boxer must stay in the ring, withstanding punches until he wins. What a good lesson for Christians to stay in the fight and carry on until victory is won.

I highly recommend this book. Palmer's writing style is clear and easy to read. There is a wealth of inspiration and encouragement to be gained from understanding the major words used in the Bible and Palmer has made it very accessible in this book.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love learning the meaning of words so I was excited to read this book. The author has ninety words that he translates from Greek so we can understand the real meaning when it is used in the Bible. The first chapter grabbed my attention right away. I have studied about the armor of God many times, but as I saw the word panoplia I began to see how powerful that word really is. It clearly states in scripture that we are to put on the full armor not just parts of it. The illustration the author uses about soccer players was very visual. When we go into battle against the enemy we need to be prepared. Soccer players are required to wear certain equipment before they are allowed on the field. God wants us to be ready with everything we have which includes the entire armor of God.
The book is well written and gives scriptures references for the Greek words. I felt like the Bible was starting to take on a deeper meaning for me as the words were broken down so that I could truly understand what they meant in scripture. Each chapter touches on a word and I decided I needed to start taking notes. I love my journal that was gifted to me by a very special friend and it is perfect to use for this study. Now I can go back and refresh myself on the meanings and get a better picture of what the words are referencing.
I loved chapter twenty when it talks about grieve. The Greek word for grieve is lypeite. I was so sure this was going to be talking about us grieving for someone. The author uses God to show us how He is grieved by the way we talk about others by being bitter, gossiping or cursing. I have never really thought that doing these things would sadden God but He doesn’t like us to talk about each other in ways that hurt and bruise by our words. The author explains how talking like this can divide the Body of Christ. God created us and when He hears us tearing each other down, we are allowing the enemy to destroy God’s creation. I know I need to be more loving in my words. This chapter has opened my eyes to think of others more and to remember that God grieves when His children speak unkindly to each other.
I would recommend everyone grab a copy of this book. It is not something you want to rush through. Each chapter has nuggets of wisdom, illustrations to help understand the words and scriptures where the word is used. It is a source of information that helps us identify the meaning of the word and how it is used in scripture. I will be going through this study many times as I want to grasp the meanings better. We are all a work in progress and this study showed me I still have much work to understand what God’s Word says.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Robbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love to read and have always been fascinated with etymology, so it was only natural that I wanted to read Chris Palmer’s book, Greek Word Study: 90 Ancient Words That Unlock Scripture. I am so glad I did.

Palmer takes ninety words from the Bible, and not just profound words. He explains them in-depth, to include writing the word in Greek and citing a Bible verse using the word, too (and writes the Bible verse in Greek!).

I remember learning in church how one word in the Bible could come from a word with several different meanings. For example, Palmer does a marvelous dive into the origins of the Greek word “parre̅sia.” Both the terms “parre̅sia” and “ise̅goria” were used for “free speech.” Ise̅goria meant the right to speak in public; parre̅sia meant the right to say whatever you want when you speak in public. Parre̅sia is the word translated as “confidence” in Hebrews 4:16 (ESV) Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. It had come to mean saying what needed to be said even when it was not popular to do to do so by the time it was used by the writer of Hebrews. Of course, this is just a microcosm of the explanation as there is one chapter devoted entirely to the word. Word lovers will savor this book!

Each chapter will help you better understand the Biblical concept of the words as they were originally meant and will pull you deeper and deeper into the Bible. The book is written in a straightforward, uncomplicated way that does not require any prior or current knowledge of Greek. Plus, as an added bonus, there is a Greek to English, English to Greek index.

Greek Word Study is a must-read for anyone wishing to learn more about Greek and the Bible. It is a motivating, encouraging and inspiring book. I know I will be frequently rereading it.

I received Greek Word Study: 90 Ancient Words That Unlock Scripture from Celebrate Lit. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Greek Word Study" by Chris Palmer is a good book to use asa study for yourself or with a friend.


I really like this book. I do have to admit that when it came to reading the Scriptures passages in Greek =, I skipped over them but I did read everything else. This study made these 90 words more alive and more meaningful in everyday life.

Chris Palmer does not shy away from controversial issues, even when viewpoints have recently changed because of a change in the culture. Yes, there is a study on homosexuality and sexuality purity

My favorite study was the one about being anxious. Palmer provides a good example of the meaning of the word. I think it is met favorite because right now in my own personal life, this issue is one that I am working on, but I am sure in the future there will be other issues that this book will be the one I will be needing to work one so right, I have an ebook copy but will be looking into buying the print book in the future.

This is a post that I posted on my Facebook page , " If you know me well, you know I have a history of worrying over everything, well I have been practicing, don't know if that is the right word or not, turning my worries over to God, no, I am not saying I am perfect at it, but I just read this in "Greek Word Study: 90 Ancient Words That Unlock Scripture (Greek for the Week)" by Chris Palmer. I literally said "Wow"
"It was a profound thought for me and maybe it will be for someone else"
" Next time you are tempted to worry, remind yourself that you are not a bloodhound. There's no need to track the trail of your anxieties. You have a better route to follow-the trail God set before you.( See Psalm 23:3)"

I highly recommend this book. It is clear and easy to read. This book is full of inspiration and encouragement and a great source to understanding the Bible better.

I received a complementary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[LisLovesReading E.Espinoza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very readable and engaging, Greek Word Study, by Chris Palmer, is full of helpful insights into 90 different Greek words and phrases from the Bible. Using interesting contemporary stories and analogies in combination with meaningful historical context, the author endeavors to make a portion of ancient Biblical Greek vocabulary accessible and relevant to a modern English speaking audience.

I found this book genuinely interesting and enjoyable to read. Mr. Palmer's writing style easily held my attention page after page. However, I did find myself wishing there was a more obvious organization, structure, or theme to the Greek words that the author chose to include. Seemingly placed in a random order, the 90 Greek words are prepositions, verbs, adverbs, nouns, and adjectives from several New Testament books. This made me appreciate the alphabetical vocabulary index at the back of the study that would make it easier to use this book as a reference or a Bible study tool.

After reading all 90 of the word studies included in this book, I certainly did come away with an appreciation for the complexity of Biblical translation, the beauty of Koine Greek, and the importance of the ancient Greco-Roman culture in which the New Testament writers lived and wrote. I also greatly appreciated that this book offered an in-depth look into a variety of verses from the New Testament. Overall, this book is similar in tone to a daily, Bible study devotional, and I found it to be uplifting, encouraging, and helpful. I can easily recommend this book to lay people who are looking for an inviting, beginners' introduction to a selection of Biblical Greek words.

*I was given a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

[MaryAnn Bell · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Flour. Sheep. Coins. Wheat. Jesus never abandoned the familiarity of His time because what He had to say was so celestial or deep. Instead, He took advantage of what people already understood. In doing so, He didn’t just leave a way of salvation for us, but also a pattern of teaching to follow. This alone was my inspiration for how I chose to write Greek Word Study.”—author Chris Palmer

In a follow-up to his highly acclaimed book Letters from Jesus: Studies from the Seven Churches of Revelation, the Rev. Chris Palmer has written Greek Word Study: 90 Ancient Words That Unlock Scripture. With wit, humor, grace, and scholarship, Chris offers biblical insights while teaching Koine Greek words and phrases one delightful bite at a time. Unlike other books that overwhelm readers with Greek grammar, word formation, tenses, and the like, Chris makes the language accessible to anyone, using modern stories and analogies that engage readers and draw them into the Scriptures. Learning some Greek words and phrases helps you read the Bible in high definition!

“You don’t need to be scholar to read this book and you don’t need to know an ounce of Greek either. In fact, you don’t even have to really know much about the Bible at all,” Chris says. “All you need to do is just kick back and enjoy.”

My Thoughts: This is an interesting book that digs deep into the meaning of certain Greek words. This is a good book for those interested in the Greek language or those who do intensive Bible study. The author teaches you the meanings and gives illustrations to help the reader understand the usage of the words and how they relate to modern English. This book is a very handy tool for those who do intensive studies of the Bible.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Greek Word Study: 90 Ancient Words That Unlock Scripture by author Chris Palmer is an educational tool for those wanting to delve deeper into scripture. It is a great starting point for learning Greek words and delving deeper into scripture.

This is a fabulous resource. Author Palmer has done detailed research and presented it in an easy to read and understand form. His book has ninety words, and I can only hope to learn them all in time. For me, this brought much more depth to scriptures that I have studied many times before.

Each chapter is dedicated to one word. It is listed in English and Greek along with the definition for each. In the end of the book is an index of Greek - English Index and an English - Greek Index that contain the chapter number of the word. That makes it easy to refer to certain words.

The author uses everyday terms and items to help explain the words. I liked that this is a book for everyone. It is not just for Bible Scholars. Anyone wanting to learn will definitely learn when reading this. It is a book that will be used many times.

I highly recommend this excellent study tool. Everyone that owns a Bible should read it. It will shine new light on scripture in a deeper way. Every church library should carry at least one copy. This would make a fantastic study for any age. It definitely gets a 5 out of 5 stars from me. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit but this is my honest opinion.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Greek Word Study is a wonderful book that I feel has already increased my knowledge of the Bible and has also made me long to learn Greek. The author of this book has a gift for writing that is humorous yet also enlightening. He weaves stories and words and makes you feel like you’re chatting over a cup of coffee. And of course, he is telling you to eat! Have a piece of coffee cake.
While some of the examples connecting the Greek words to modern day didn’t make as much sense to me I did love learning about the words and where they were used in the Bible.
When I saw the description for the book I expected there to be chapters. Each chapter would have a Greek word, tell us the definition, and then show us where it was in scripture. I did not imagine all the fun stoires and interaction that was going to go on.
I give this book a 4.5 star rating. Definitely a book that I’ll be keeping on my shelf. I’ll also be grabbing some more studies on Greek now and maybe a few Greek recipes are going to be needed at my house.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Caitlyn Santi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't read a ton of non-fiction, but as soon as I read the description of this book I was super intrigued, and so I jumped at the chance to request a review copy!
I am a Christian who has long been fascinated by the meaning behind Greek words in the Bible. I have zero knowledge of Greek, but as a reader, writer, and lover of words I was excited to start this book.
What an awesome read! The author brilliantly uses written snapshots of life and cultural things that are very familiar to a contemporary reader to illustrate and unpack the meaning of each Greek word! I love it!
This book is interesting, engaging, and inspiring, it teaches tons of great lessons and is super fun to read!
I loved this book, and highly recommend it! This is definitely a book I'll be reading time and again and I very well may purchase a print copy for my keeper shelf!
(5 Stars!)


I received an ebook copy of this book from the publisher. Which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own!

[Mary Hake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Want to learn more about New Testament words and their meanings, based on the original language and how it is used in the Bible? Whether you are interested in Greek or not, this book offers a great resource to better understand the depth of some words found in Scripture. If you don’t want to study any Greek, just skip the verse in that language in each of the ninety chapters and stick to the English—that’s all you need to read. The author includes anecdotes, personal experiences, and facts to complement the definitions and unpacking the meaning of each word. His writing style is easy to relate to, and his knowledge is presented clearly and effectively to help readers grasp the information. The book could be a helpful resource for pastors and Bible teachers. I enjoyed reading it and will probably use it in the future when I want to remember details about a particular Greek word from God’s Word. The Table of Contents and the indexes list each of the ninety words in English and Greek to make it handy to find a certain one. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Donna C · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I think you should know:
Greek for the Week: Greek Word Study by Chris Palmer is an educational Christian Study. It contains an explanation and context for 90 ancient Greek words from the Bible.

What I think about this book:
I previously read Palmer’s Greek for the Week, Letter from Jesus and enjoyed all that I learned from it so I was excited to read this book. I am enjoying this book just as much if not more than his prior book. Each chapter provides a modern reference to the work as well as Biblical examples for each word. I have enjoyed introducing this to my sons as a daily Bible Study. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to dig deeper and learn more about the Bible and the original context and meaning of the words in the Bible.

I received a complimentary copy for this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Ebosereme Nwamu · Rating 4 out of 5]

A word can mean a different things in different ways and depending on how it is used. This book picked out major Greek words of the New Testament and gave a very detailed meaning and explanation of the word and how it was used in several parts of the New Testament with abundance of scriptural references.
This book is a great tool for every Christian who desires to have a deep understanding of the Bible.

As a Bible teacher myself this book is invaluable and a companion. I liked how the author was in no hurry but dissected the words in all their tenses, giving the meanings and different usages. He brought the message of the Bible clearer and easier to enjoy. It is easy enough for everyone to understand and use.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a theo-nerd, this was a great book for me! I often go to various sources when studying to teach, speak, or write to find Greek meanings of words in Scripture.

The Greek Word Study defines the Greek word and includes an illustration that helps you understand the meaning and context, and then continues explaining the meaning.

This is a great resource for anyone who is interested in delving in a little deeper and understanding the meanings of Greek words.

NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing from Chris Palmer. I was not required to provide a positive review. Thoughts in my review are my own opinion.

[Jennifer J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating, relevant, thorough and intellectually stimulating. This author has done a fine job of providing an approachable study of specific Greek words; making it relatable and interesting. Great food for thought as one has a glimpse of the various Greek derivations that form much of the English language. This volume is a wonderful addition to the study of the Bible as it provides a deeper understanding and appreciation for the specifics of the Greek language therein. Quite enjoyable and I highly recommend this book!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.

[A. Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an enjoyable read. I have spent a lot of time studying the Bible but never had the chance to dive into the Greek meaning of the words. I love how getting a good grasp of some simple words makes many verses that much clearer. I also liked how the author related many of the words to everyday language. He made it interesting (definitely not dry and boring) and kept the reader's attention.
Very well done and highly recommended.
*I received this book for review from Celebrate Lit.

[Karen Hadley · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Greek Word Study" is a must for any Scripture Studying Scholar or even if you occasionally want to see what a word in Scripture means in Greek. This study is basic, simple to use and written in a way that is easy to understand. I enjoy having this resource within reach. I like being able to read what a word means in the way it was intended. You'll want to invest in this resource.

Blessings,

Karen

Rating: 5*

I requested a copy of this book and all opinions are my own.

[Brian Stelling · Rating 3 out of 5]

For a Christian this was hard to stomach when the author spews Satan’s evolution and ball earth deception. Many of his anecdotes are just regurgitating mainstream atheistic trivia. Not really what I was looking for in a book on Koine Greek words, but interesting too.

[Lecturer]

Good

[larry Thoms · Rating 5 out of 5]

love it very good book.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are 90 Greek words in the book. The word is introduced with a verse where that word is used. The author then gives an illustration of the meaning of that word through a new article or story. Then closing with how that word would have been used in the New Testament times.

I enjoyed the book. It was one to read slowly as you consider all the meaning of the words. A few of the illustrations would not ones that worked for me but that is fine.

Overall I enjoyed this book and it did help to explain how the words would be used in the New Testament times. You can understand what the reader would be thinking when that word was read.

This is a great resource tool.