TH 501 New Testament Theology
Word Studies: An Inductive Methodology
If you have not already done so, read Toussaint, “A Method of Making a New
Testament Word Study,” Bib Sac 120:477 (Jan 1963): pp. 35-41.
[Link]/article/bsac120-477-04
Choose one of the assigned Greek words to study.
1. Study all of the occurrences of the Greek word in the New Testament
(via English translations).
2. Observe and record the following items from the immediate contexts:
Actors/receivers… (if the word is a verb, who does the action, who
receives the action?)
Related words or phrases… (what prepositions or vocabulary often
occur with this word?)
Occurs in contexts that also mention… (what other concepts are
included nearby?)
Synonymous with… (what parallel words or phrases seem to carry a
similar meaning?)
3. Draft a definition (or definitions) that you think accurately reflects the
meaning of the word in New Testament usage.
4. Record any significant observations about how a proper understanding
of this word informs your interpretation of important passages.
You may reference New Testament lexicons to check or corroborate your
work after you have drafted your own definition(s) based on your own
inductive study. Be sure to cite any work you reference. If your study in
lexicons modifies your understanding of the word, note the recommended
changes, but retain your original draft definitions as well.
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