About this episode

In this episode, Jonny Reid and Rev. Dr. Andrew Cowan discuss the importance of learning biblical languages for a deeper understanding of Scripture.

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…

People in this episode

Host: Jonny Reid

Guest: Rev. Dr. Andrew Cowan

Topics covered

• biblical languages
• spiritual impact
• misconceptions
• modern translations
• learning Greek
• devotional life

Keywords

• biblical languages
• Greek
• Hebrew
• Colossians
• Revelation
• John 1
• devotional life
• misconceptions
• modern translations

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Oak Hill College

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