Do I really have to learn ancient Greek?

Every year thousands, perhaps millions, of students begin studies in history, philosophy, and theology and they have to learn Greek, ancient Greek! Although they might not say it out loud, some are probably thinking, “Why do I have to study this language that isn’t spoken anymore? And we have translations in our languages, why do I have to learn this language? Isn't the study of ancient Greek a waste of time and energy?” Those are great questions! Are you victims of curriculum? Or are you privileged beneficiaries of some of the richest texts in human history? You can guess what my slant will be…You are definitely not victims; rather, honored explorers of antiquity.