Internet Greek New Testament

Internet Greek New Testament Collation Project

Introduction to the Greek New Testament

The Greek New Testament is a cornerstone of Christian faith, serving as the textual foundation for understanding the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Known in Greek as Ἡ Καινὴ Διαθήκη, meaning “The New Covenant,” it represents the fulfillment of God’s promises to humanity through Jesus Christ, as foretold in the Hebrew Scriptures. The New Testament is not merely a collection of ancient writings but a divinely inspired revelation of God’s redemptive plan, offering guidance for faith and practice.

Why It Is Called the “New Testament”

The term “New Testament” arises from the Greek word διαθήκη, which can mean “covenant” or “testament.” This term reflects the transition from the Mosaic Covenant, centered on the Law given to Israel, to the New Covenant inaugurated by Jesus Christ. This New Covenant is prophesied in Jeremiah 31:31–34, where God promises to write His law on the hearts of His people. Jesus Himself uses the language of covenant at the Last Supper, saying, “This is My blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:28).

Early Church Fathers such as Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and Tertullian emphasized this concept of fulfillment and continuity. Justin Martyr (ca. 100–165) referred to the Scriptures as the “writings of the New Covenant,” contrasting them with the “old covenant” of the Mosaic Law. Irenaeus (ca. 130–202) argued in Against Heresies that the New Testament writings revealed the fullness of God’s plan, surpassing the types and shadows of the Old Testament.

Composition and Language

The New Testament was originally written in Koine Greek, the common language of the Eastern Mediterranean during the first century. Koine Greek’s widespread usage allowed the message of the gospel to reach diverse populations across the Roman Empire. Its linguistic precision also made it an ideal medium for conveying theological truths. The New Testament consists of 27 books, traditionally divided into the Gospels, Acts of the Apostles, Pauline Epistles, General Epistles, and the Apocalypse (Revelation).

Church Fathers such as Origen (ca. 185–254) and Jerome (ca. 347–420) affirmed the authority of these writings. Jerome, in his preface to the Gospels in the Latin Vulgate, praised the Greek originals as inspired texts and urged the faithful to study them diligently.

Theological Importance

The Greek New Testament is far more than a historical document; it is the Word of God, “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12). It reveals the incarnation of Jesus Christ as the Word (Logos), the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, and the means of salvation for humanity. As Augustine of Hippo (354–430) famously declared, “The New Testament lies hidden in the Old, and the Old is unveiled in the New.”

The New Testament also establishes the doctrines central to Christian faith: Christology, the atonement, justification by faith, and the hope of eternal life. It provides practical instructions for living as a follower of Christ, emphasizing love, forgiveness, and service.

Transmission and Preservation

The Greek New Testament has been carefully transmitted through centuries of devoted effort by scribes and scholars who recognized its sacred importance. Early Church Fathers, ardently defended its authenticity against heretical distortions, ensuring that the truth of the gospel remained unaltered. Their commitment to preserving the integrity of the text reflects the reverence with which the early Church approached these writings.

Throughout history, the Greek New Testament has been preserved not only in manuscripts but also in the writings of the Church Fathers, who extensively quoted from it in their theological works. These citations serve as a testament to its widespread use and enduring authority, highlighting its central role in shaping Christian doctrine and practice.

Internet Greek New Testament