It’s no coincidence that the Bible was recorded in Koine Greek.
It was the trade language of the civilized world at that time, just like English is today. The Greek is also unique in its ability to convey meaning through verbal aspect. One of the best examples of that is found in the apostle Paul’s first letter to the church of God which [was] at Corinth. He said:
“…the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” [1Cor. 1:18] [my emphasis]
[ἀπόλλυμι (â-pô’-lū-mee): to destroy {an inanimate object}, to kill {by taking a life}, cause to lose {especially a life}; to die or perish. Violence and strife is often the associative meaning related to this word.] Strong’s Definition; G/K NUMBER: 660
This sentence is packed with meaning.
It suggests caution, certainty and encouragement all at the same time. Even taken out of context, it stands alone in its ability to describe some harsh realities we can observe today. But the implications are greater than we might imagine.
Because if I think the good news about Jesus having proven that the dead can be raised is hogwash, then it isn’t just my destiny that’s on the table.
If I’m perishing, it’s happening now. The words “perishing” and “being saved” are both recorded as Present Passive Tense Participles defining them as a continuous activities happening in real time.
Think about it.
If my [pagan] hope is to merely not exist after death, then, after I’m brought back to life to be judged by my works before the great white throne, I’ll get my wish. After all, by definition, perishing is a process which must have a conclusion [1]. [Rev. 21:8]
On the other hand, if I’m “being saved,” I’m reaping the fruits of sanctification every day. Those of us who float in that boat probably don’t have words to express the unfathomable value of it.
But what could be more miserable than an ongoing awareness of my demise?