A Lexicon Is Not a Magic Decoder

Teaching and interpretation

A biblical word can have multiple senses depending on syntax and context. Strong's numbers group occurrences and make research easier, but a glossary entry is not the conclusion of a sermon. Test several occurrences of a word before claiming it always means the same thing, and acknowledge where your training stops.

Pastoral case to discuss

Someone discovers a secondary dictionary definition of a Greek term and claims the church concealed it for centuries. What other evidence would you require?

Describe the relevant facts and what you would still need to know. Do not present assumptions as the person's motives, diagnose a disorder or make unverified claims about Scripture.

Required practical exercise

Use the site's word-study tools to compare three occurrences and write down two plausible senses and one conclusion not supported.

Support your answers with passages in context and distinguish biblical teaching, historical interpretation, modern professional standards and personal judgment. Keep real people's details confidential.

Study more deeply

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