Why Bother With Biblical Languages?

Why should Christians—especially pastors and Bible teachers—bother with biblical languages today? In this episode of Deep Roots, Jonny Reid sits down with Rev. Dr. Andrew Cowan, Oak Hill College’s new tutor in Greek and New Testament, to explore the real value of learning Scripture in its original languages.Andrew reflects on how Greek first came alive for him, how it has deepened his devotional life, and why slowing down in the text changes everything. Together, they address the most common misconceptions: Is it too time-consuming? Can you ever become proficient? Don’t modern translations and digital tools make languages unnecessary? What if you think you’re “not a linguist”?They also unpack practical examples from Colossians, Revelation, and John 1 that show how Greek and Hebrew reveal nuance, structure, and richness that translations inevitably flatten.Whether you're a ministry leader trying to keep your languages alive, a student considering theological training, or simply an interested believer who wants to understand Scripture more deeply, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and a reminder that God’s Word is worth the effort.Topics covered:Why Andrew first fell in love with GreekSpiritual impact of reading Scripture slowlyFour misconceptions about biblical languagesWhether modern translations make Greek/Hebrew unnecessaryHow not to misuse “a little Greek”Textual examples: Colossians 1, Revelation, John 1How to start learning Greek or Hebrew todayHow pastors can revive rusty language skillsTools: Daily Dose of Greek, Alpha with Angela, reading groupsWhy God’s Word is worth the effortResources mentioned:Exegetical Fallacies – D.A. CarsonDaily Dose of GreekAlpha With Angela (YouTube)Greek/Hebrew reading groups & refresher retreats at Oak Hill College00:00 – Intro: Why Study Biblical Languages Today? 02:00 – Andrew's Journey Into Greek & Hebrew 06:30 – How Languages Deepen the Way We Read Scripture 12:00 – The Four Big Misconceptions 18:30 – The Danger of Knowing Just a Little Greek 24:30 – Key Payoff Example: Colossians 1:28–29 31:30 – Greek, Grammar & Theology 40:30 – The Bigger Picture: Structure, Wordplay & Nuance 48:00 – How to Start Learning Greek or Hebrew 55:30 – Reviving Rusty Languages for Ministry 01:03:00 – Resources, Community & Learning Support 01:10:00 – Final Answer: Because the Word of God Is Worth It 01:14:00 – Oak Hill’s Training Pathways & Close