Book Review - Sparkling Gems from the Greek

Sparkling Gems from the Greek By Rick Renner

Book Review by Judy Vandiver

Word lovers and Bible students will love Sparkling Gems from the Greek by Rick Renner. My sister and her husband presented me with this book last Christmas. I have thoroughly enjoyed it.

The book is described on the front cover as: 365 Greek word studies for every day of the year to sharpen your understanding of God’s Word. It has lived up to that claim.

The daily devotions are from two to three pages each; complete with prayers, confessions and study questions, and are dated for year-long study. For each devotional, Rick Renner looks at the scripture with emphasis on the Greek meaning behind many of the words. Meanings that the majority of Christians are not familiar with. In a simple to understand writing style, Renner explores the deeper understand behind selected scriptures. Delving into the customs, studying the true definitions of words, and taking a closer look, he has produced what he calls “sparkling gems” from God’s Word.

Today’s word study in Sparkling Gems comes from two words found in 2 Corinthians 11:27. “In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often,” (KJV). Renner looks at the Greek words agrupvia and pollakis, (translated into English as watching and often.)  With a theme centered on being a team player, the devotional explores the way we act and react in the home, church, or work place. The reader is asked to consider not just the exceptional moments of our lives, but what are actions are during the mundane day-to-day living.

This has been a perfect devotional for me. The word lover in me always wants to know the deep depths behind chosen words. As one who loves the Scriptures, discovering the gems hidden in God’s Word excites me.

I checked on Amazon. This book sells new for a little over $23, but you can usually find a used copy around $16. Click on link below to go directly to Amazon’s listing for this book. Sparkling Gems From The Greek: 365 Greek Word Studies For Every Day Of The Year To Sharpen Your Understanding Of God's Word