The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary welcomed 225 students, pastors, scholars, and laypeople from across the country for its 2025 Greek and Hebrew for Life Conference, held July 25–26. With a reputation for excellence in biblical scholarship, Southern Seminary once again affirmed why it is the premier confessional institution for studying the original languages of Scripture.
Leading up to the weekend conference, 146 participants took part in a weeklong review course—either in Greek or Hebrew—from Monday through Friday. These intensive sessions gave attendees the chance to sharpen their language skills under the guidance of trusted faculty, reconnect with the texts of Scripture in their original form, and gain fresh confidence for both study and teaching.
“It is always such a joy to visit with both pastors and laypeople who delight in studying God’s Word in the original languages,” Rob Plummer, New Testament Professor at Southern Seminary, said. “Some are beginners. Some are advanced students. They are all, however, on a lifetime journey of going deeper into the Scriptures, knowing the Triune God, and reveling in the grace of the gospel of Jesus Christ.”
The conference and review course also provided an opportunity for fellowship and mentorship. Southern Seminary professors such as Hershael York, Kaspars Ozolins, Roberto Carrera, and James Hamilton each spoke in their areas of expertise and interacted with participants.
Jonathan Ahlgren, Administrator of the Daily Dose ministries, said conference attendees “were thankful to grow in their understanding of the Greek and Hebrew.”
“They left encouraged to devote themselves more fully to the faithful study of the Bible in the original languages,” Ahlgren said. “Many alumni were able to connect together. There was a good variety of people, both those in vocational ministry and those who are simply members of their local church who love to study the Bible and find joy in reading the text that the apostles and prophets wrote.”
Sessions focused on practical tools for maintaining proficiency, navigating difficult texts, and staying spiritually refreshed while engaging in rigorous language work. The sessions served to equip students to dig deeper into exegetical issues and their application to ministry. A highlight of the sessions included a display and exploration of the 1560 Geneva Bible and 1534 Tyndale New Testament presented by Nathan Parsons, PhD candidate at SBTS.
The conference was all geared toward helping participants retain and stay interested in the original languages,” Howell said. “Stay in the Greek and Hebrew, stay in the Latin, stay in the Aramaic, and use those languages in ministry and in devotion. That was our theme this year.”
With its commitment to excellence in theological education and its unique investment in biblical languages, SBTS continues to lead the way in helping a new generation of gospel ministers rightly divide the Word of truth.
The conference is held every two years. Plan to attend the next meeting in 2027!