.  I also am opposed to reading Greek/Hebrew... unless the congregation members are native Greek/Hebrew speakers! Glenn made some helpful observations from his experience. I'll add some more.  In Judaism and Islam, there is a sense that the text--ie, the very words--are sacred. That's why Hebrew is still read in the synagogue. That's why there is no such thing as a translation of the Koran.  Christianity, on the other hand, confesses a living Word. The early Christians chose to use the Koine Greek since it was the common language. It was not a 'holy' language then, and it should not be revived as somehow more holy than English now. We don't want to 'idolize' the Greek/Hebrew. The goal is to communicate.  The church is best served by using the best English translation possible. Of course it is impossible to choose one translation as "best," but there are better translations and ones that are more appropriate for different contexts.  I also am opposed to reading Greek/Hebrew... unless the congregation members are native Greek/Hebrew speakers! Glenn made some helpful observations from his experience. I'll add some more.  In Judaism and Islam, there is a sense that the text--ie, the very words--are sacred. That's why Hebrew is still read in the synagogue. That's why there is no such thing as a translation of the Koran.  Christianity, on the other hand, confesses a living Word. The early Christians chose to use the Koine Greek since it was the common language. It was not a 'holy' language then, and it should not be revived as somehow more holy than English now. We don't want to 'idolize' the Greek/Hebrew. The goal is to communicate.  The church is best served by using the best English translation possible. Of course it is impossible to choose one translation as "best," but there are better translations and ones that are more appropriate for different contexts.  