In this episode of Exploring the Language of Scripture, Daniel Mikkelsen is joined by Filip Sylwestrowicz—a pastor and New Testament scholar—for a rich and thought-provoking conversation on blessings and curses in Paul’s letters, their ancient background, and their relevance for the Church today. Drawing on passages like Galatians 1, 1 Corinthians 5 and 16, Romans 9 and 12, Filip explores the meaning of anathema, the language of 'handing over to Satan', and the paradox of Paul encouraging believers to bless their persecutors yet pronouncing curses himself. He also examines how the language of curse functioned and was used in the ancient world including the usage of curse tablets, tomb inscriptions, and Qumran rites to highlight how Paul’s use of curses is distinctive—not as acts of vengeance, but as tools to guard the integrity of the gospel and the life of the community. Whether you’ve wondered why Paul says “Bless, not curse” yet still uses curses, or you’re curious about the pastoral purpose of such pronouncements, this episode offers a fascinating and theologically rich exploration of an often-overlooked theme in the New Testament. Applications Now Open The application process for my one-to-one Greek Tutoring programme is open. If you’ve been wanting to read the New Testament in Greek—with structure, guidance, and personal feedback—this is your chance to join my year-long programme. There are only 2–3 spots available, and once they’re filled, the window closes, but no later than 25 August 2025 at 16:00 BST. Apply here: https://ntgreektutoring.com/application-opt-in?utm_source=buzzsprout Don’t Miss the Next Episode: This episode features a conversation with Paul Foster on the theology and message of the letter to the Colossians. Chapters: 00:00 – Season 2 Kick-off & Today’s Theme: Blessings and Curses in Paul 01:38 – Guest: Filip Sylwestrowicz — Pastor & NT Scholar 03:39 – How Filip Got Into Greek & Hebrew (and Why It Matters) 07:33 – How Original Languages Change the Way You Read Scripture 11:20 – Greek Nuance: 1 Cor 5; Beersheba; διώκω (diōkō) in Rom 12 19:09 – Why Study Blessings & Curses in Paul? 29:45 – Curses in Antiquity: Tablets, Tombs, and Ritual Authority 35:54 – Curses in Paul’s World: Curse Tablets, Anatolian Tomb Curses, Qumran Rites 46:37 – Galatians 3 & Romans 9: Making Sense of “Curse” and “Anathema” 54:42 – “Anathema” & “Handed to Satan”: What Paul Actually Means 01:02:31 – Pastoral Discipline: Using Curses to Guard Doctrine & Community 01:07:15 – Bless Enemies, Guard the Church: When Paul Won’t—and Will—Curse 01:14:20 – What Follows from Here? Music Credits: Please, let us know what you thoughts on the episode. Support the show If you enjoyed this episode of Exploring the Language of Scripture, please consider becoming an Explorer! Your support helps keep the podcast ad-free, allows us to bring in more guests, and enhances the content we create. By joining our Explorer community, you’ll receive exclusive benefits, including Q&As, priority for Greek tutoring applications, and discounts on tutoring. Explore more and join the Explorer programme here: Become an Explorer. Podcast Keywords: biblical languages, New Testament, Old Testament, Christ, bible study, Relationship with God, learn biblical languages, Biblical Theology, Christianity, Covenants, New covenant, old covenant, language acquisition, Biblical Greek, Biblical Hebrew.
