Scriptural Evidence of "Q"?
Posted: Sun Feb 25, 2018 7:16 pm
Many biblical scholars refer to "Q" which is supposed to be a written record of at least the sayings of Jesus which was used by the authors of the gospels as a resource. Some theologians (Godet and others he cites) take from something Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians as evidence of this document:
1 Corinthians 7:25 (NASB)
25. Now concerning virgins I have no command of the Lord, but I give an opinion as one who by the mercy of the Lord is trustworthy.
Their reasoning appears to be (and Godet isn't the easiest to understand) that Paul is careful to note that he is giving his opinion as advice rather than a command because there were available writings at the time of Jesus' sayings which could be referenced regarding the subject. Elsewhere in this letter Paul makes clear that what he says about divorce wasn't covered by Jesus but what he says carries Apostolic authority.
If these folks are correct, then the early church had what might be considered scripture, other than the Old Testament, much earlier than commonly thought, as the Letter to the Corinthians is very early.
1 Corinthians 7:25 (NASB)
25. Now concerning virgins I have no command of the Lord, but I give an opinion as one who by the mercy of the Lord is trustworthy.
Their reasoning appears to be (and Godet isn't the easiest to understand) that Paul is careful to note that he is giving his opinion as advice rather than a command because there were available writings at the time of Jesus' sayings which could be referenced regarding the subject. Elsewhere in this letter Paul makes clear that what he says about divorce wasn't covered by Jesus but what he says carries Apostolic authority.
If these folks are correct, then the early church had what might be considered scripture, other than the Old Testament, much earlier than commonly thought, as the Letter to the Corinthians is very early.