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Welcome! We all know - don't we? - that the New Testament was originally written in Greek and that if we want a deeper and richer understanding of its message we should study this ancient language for ourselves. But how many of us have? The answer is very few - and for all kinds of different reasons: We are too busy. We are not clever enough. We are too old. Some argue that we don't need to learn Greek because of the plethora of new bible translations on the market or because there is minimal payback in terms of new knowledge to be gained.
Advanced students are exposed in greater detail to the study of particular New Testament texts, as well as the intricacies of exegesis, textual criticism, and the ways in which the Greek New Testament can be appropriated for use in sermon preparation and bible study. Advanced students also have the option of learning how to read Greek inscriptions and papyri, in addition to being introduced to the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew scriptures which was widely read by the first followers of Jesus - including St. Paul).
Should you decide not to take a course I hope that I will at least have inspired you to think a bit more about why New Testament Greek is so important for understanding the Good News about Jesus. For those who decide to take the plunge - congratulations and welcome! The study of New Testament Greek will be one of the most significant ventures you will ever undertake as a bible student.
Thank you for visiting this website - enjoy the contents! Current & Fortcoming Beginners Courses Hitchin, Herts, Weekend Course: 1 of 4 (Sat 26th Sept 2009, 10am-5pm) What the Students Say About the Beginners Course "Dr Brendan Devitt has been professional and supportive throughout the course. His knowledge of New Testament Greek is incomparable and his teaching skills are outstanding....one really can learn a tremendous amount of New Testament Greek in under a year and acquire a solid foundation for further study. Recommended without reservation". Dr Trevor R Allin (Ph.D. in Linguistics, St Andrews University, currently Lay Reader in the Spanish Anglican Church and member of Ministry Team) "A challenging but very enjoyable course; alongside the necessary focus on "The Beginner’s Course is not to be missed if you seek real added depth in Bible understanding...Brendan's infectious enthusiasm makes it all a priceless, extraordinary and unforgettable experience." Geoff W, retired engineer (Letchworth) "Excellent tuition, infectious enthusiasm and constant reassurances that 'it's really very easy', plus the chance to engage in not a little theological, linguistic and historical discussion en route, made it an absorbing course - challenging but very worthwhile" Sheena, Deacon, Baptist Church (Hitchin) "It has been great! From learning the alphabet to reading the Greek New Testament in nine months!" Kay W, former government physicist (Hitchin) "A great eye opener. It doesn't sound Greek to me anymore!" Greg, journalist (Luton) "Be a Greek Geek in twenty easy lessons - replete with Irish humour!" RS, retired businessman (Letchworth) "Knowledgeable explanations...tender teaching...gentle encouragement...really rewarding...serious religion in a relaxed and pleasing way" Contact Parish Magazine Hitchin (July 2009) "A thoroughly enjoyable and stimulating course and well taught too. I would MORE TO FOLLOW.... [ Dr Brendan Devitt BA, MSt, PhD] |
I hope this website will dispel some of the myths about studying Greek and encourage you to think about taking it up as a necessary, exciting, and deeply rewarding pursuit. Navigating the site you will be able to read about the variety of courses that are taught on the Read New Testament Greek programme. Students are taught the elements of the language from absolute scratch, and are equipped to tackle the Greek text of the gospels and epistles with the very minimum of fuss. The beginners course is particularly geared at individuals who have little or no background in the study of grammar (either English or otherwise!), but who are keen to read the New Testament in the language in which it was originally written.
The FAQ section of the website should answer most of your questions. If I can be of any further assistance you should feel free to access my contact details - I'd be delighted to talk or correspond with you. But perhaps it would be as well to start by reading a bit about myself, my interests, and objectives in promoting the study of New Testament Greek (see the About Me section). The "rediscovery" of the Greek New Testament in Europe c.15th-16th centuries paved the way for the Reformation, the Enlightenment, and thus the critical and independent spirit that undergirds contemporary research in the sciences and humanities. The study of New Testament Greek therefore has had revolutionary, world historical consequences which are still with us today! 
