The Originality of St Matthew
A Critique of the Two-Document Hypothesis

This 1951 book forms a critique of the Two-Source Hypothesis, the theory in biblical studies that postulates the existence of a lost “Q” Gospel.

B. C. Butler (Author)

9780521233033, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 9 June 2011

188 pages
21.6 x 14 x 1.1 cm, 0.25 kg

First published in 1951, this book forms a critique of the Two-Source Hypothesis, the theory in biblical studies that postulates the existence of a lost 'Q' Gospel. The Q theory achieved popularity through its formal completeness in explaining the presence of parallel verses in Luke and Matthew with no parallel in Mark. Yet, as Butler argues in this book, these narrative links can also be explained by a direct comparison of the third and fourth Gospels, one that avoids the necessity of a missing source. The text is highly detailed and contains numerous references to original material, together with generous additional notes. It will be of value to anyone with an interest in biblical history and theology.

1. The Q hypothesis tested
2. Arguments for Q
3. The great sermon
4. Further evidence
5. The Lachmann fallacy
6. Matthew's great discourses
7. Streeter and Burney on Mark's use of Q
8. Miscellaneous passages
9. Doublets in Matthew
10. Inconclusio, formulae and aramaisms
11. St Mark's Gospel
Epilogue
Index of New Testament passages.

Subject Areas: Biblical studies & exegesis [HRCG]