This is an introduction to a function-based approach to language, exploring NT Greek grammatical conventions based upon the discourse functions they accomplish. Runges approach has less to do with the specifics of language and more to do with how humans are wired to process it. He examines linguistics in general to explain how and why we communicate as we do, and leads readers to a more accurate description of grammatical functions of the Greek text. This is a practical and useful volume for beginning Greek students, pastors, and teachers. Advanced Biblical Greek scholars looking for a volume which synthesizes the varied sub-disciplines of New Testament discourse analysis will find that Runges work fills a large gap in NT scholarship.