Gospel Words We Should Know
ADOPTION
Gospel Words
No matter what subject we look at, we find that it is usually described by using words which have a special meaning for that subject. e.g. if you read a book on building you need to know the meaning of words such as bearer, plate, stud, rafter, reinforcing etc. If you want to follow the instruction book for your computer you need to know the special meaning of window, menu bar, cut, paste, select, save etc. In general, we will spare ourselves a great deal of trouble, frustration and confusion if we give priority to learning the language in which the subject is usually expressed. This is also true of the Christian faith.
Missionaries are very aware of the importance of having a Bible translation in the first language of those they wish to reach, but they also need to use words with a special meaning in regard to the Christian faith. There is the same need in the case of the ordinary English language reader of the Bible. For example, many find Paul's letter to the Romans "difficult," but those who make the effort to understand its basic words, will find it much easier. Be encouraged to do so. Furthermore, the list is surprisingly small!
Bible references are essential to understanding. In cases where a word may have a number of different meanings eg. law, the context will usually show which is applicable.
