Quote:
Originally Posted by Beltfed_0331
First, God chose His word. Then used men to preserve it. As to the meaning of "study", how hard can it be? Can one say they study Gods Word if they only pick it up once and a while. God wants us to search the scripture. This is how He speaks to us today, along with the guidance of the Holy Spirit we are able to understand its meaning to our lives. To say the word study is the wrong word to use here is silly. Would you say you diligently studied for an exam if you only cramed the night before? No you would know that if you studied harder over time you would be more prepared. One must keep studying in order to be diligent. What word do you think should have been used?
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Since the Greek word “Spoudazo” means “diligence” a better rendering would be diligent. Since it is in the imperative mode “Be diligent” would be a more accurate rendering. In addition, this translation would be more consistent with the other nearby usages of that exact word which are rendered “diligence” in the KJV (2 Ti 4:9, 2 Ti 4:21)
Tyndale introduced study here in 1525 because the primary meaning of “study” in 1525 was diligence.
Languages are fluid. In time the primary meanings of words change. Today study no longer conveys the same nuance as diligence.
Paul’s intent in this passage was that Timothy exert zealous, persistent, and maximum effort to preaching God’s word correctly, clearly, and completely.
While I recognize study will be a component to achieving that end that is not all that is required. Further, study is not what Paul intended. Had he intended “study” instead of “diligence” he could have used a Greek word like “melete” or “progummazo”.
The meaning of the Bible is the Bible. We should be diligent to convey the meaning of the author.