Luke 4:18-19

Jesus likely read from the Hebrew Bible: Most scholars agree that Jesus, being Jewish, would have read from the Hebrew Bible, which at that time was not the Masoretic Text but a similar text.

Luke, writing for a Greek audience, quotes from the Septuagint: The Septuagint was the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible that was widely used in the first century. Luke, writing to a Greek audience, likely used the Septuagint as his source.

Therefore, while Jesus may have read from a Hebrew text, Luke's quotation in his Gospel reflects the Septuagint version.

The Septuagint and the Masoretic Text have some differences in wording and word order, but the overall meaning is the same. 

Some scholars argue that Luke may have combined elements from both the Hebrew Bible and the Septuagint in his quotation.

The exact text that Jesus read is unknown, but it is likely that he read from a Hebrew text that was similar to the Masoretic Text.

While the source of Luke's quotation is the Septuagint, it is important to remember that Jesus likely read from a Hebrew text. This highlights the complex textual history of the Bible and the importance of considering multiple sources when interpreting biblical texts.

In his day, Jesus and his followers did not quarrel about a few translations or the pursuit of a perfect Bible. No issue of Verbal Plenary Preservation. 

Paul instructs the church not to quarrel about words. In his letters to Timothy, Paul addresses this issue directly.

2 Timothy 2:14 : "Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen."

Paul emphasizes that arguments over words or minor issues are unproductive and can lead to division within the church. Instead, he encourages believers to focus on sound teaching and the core truths of the faith. Such quarrels can distract from the primary mission of the church, which is to spread the gospel and build up the body of Christ.

By way of application:

Focus on Core Teachings: Concentrate on the essential doctrines of the Christian faith and avoid getting sidetracked by minor disputes.

Promote Unity: Encourage unity and cooperation within the church community, fostering a spirit of love and understanding.

Avoid Distractions: Be mindful of conversations and debates that can lead to unnecessary conflict or distraction from the church's mission.

Paul's guidance is a reminder to prioritize what truly matters in our faith and interactions within the church, aiming for harmony and mutual edification.

Please stop searching for a perfect Bible underlying the King James Version! 

Wake up, you drunkard.

The Septuagint was being used by Jesus

There is evidence in the New Testament that Jesus and the apostles used the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament (Hebrew Scriptures). Here are some examples:

1. Jesus' Quotation in Luke 4:18-19:

In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus reads from the book of Isaiah in the synagogue. The passage He reads is closer to the Septuagint version than the Masoretic Text (the standard Hebrew text).

Luke 4:18-19: "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."

2. Quotations in the Gospels:

Several quotations in the Gospels align more closely with the Septuagint than with the Hebrew text. Here are a few notable examples:

• Matthew 1:23: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). This is a quotation from Isaiah 7:14, and the wording matches the Septuagint.

• Matthew 21:16: “From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise.” This is a quotation from Psalm 8:2, aligning with the Septuagint.

3. Apostolic Usage:

The apostles, especially Paul, often quoted the Old Testament in their writings, and these quotations frequently align with the Septuagint. For example:

• Romans 3:10-18: Paul quotes several Old Testament passages in a sequence that aligns with the Septuagint version.

These examples show that Jesus and the early Christians were familiar with and utilized the Septuagint. This usage highlights the acceptance and influence of the Septuagint in the early Christian community.

Jesus didn't ask his followers for a perfect Bible

It's crucial to understand that Jesus was not concerned with finding a "perfect" version of the Old Testament. Instead, He focused on the message and teachings within the scriptures, regardless of whether they were from the Hebrew text or the Greek Septuagint.

Jesus' Use of the Scriptures

Throughout His ministry, Jesus often quoted from the scriptures to teach and guide His followers. He referenced both the Hebrew Bible and the Greek Septuagint, showing His familiarity and acceptance of both. For example, in the synagogue at Nazareth, He read from the book of Isaiah (Luke 4:16-21), demonstrating His respect for the Hebrew scriptures.

Respect for Different Texts

Jesus did not critique or condemn anyone for reading the Hebrew scriptures or the Septuagint. His primary concern was the heart and intent of the reader. He emphasized understanding and living out the teachings rather than focusing on textual differences.

Focus on the Message

In Matthew 5:17-18, Jesus said, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." This highlights that His mission was to fulfill the scriptures, bringing their teachings to life through His actions and words.

Application for Us

As followers of Christ, we should focus on the core messages and teachings of the Bible. Whether we read the Hebrew text, the Septuagint, or any other translation, the key is to understand and apply God's word in our lives.

Conclusion

Let's embrace the scriptures in their entirety, appreciating the rich history and diverse translations that have brought God's word to us. Let us strive to live according to the teachings of Jesus, who showed us the way to love, compassion, and truth.

Thank you, and may God bless our understanding and application of His word.