Has Matthew 28:19 been altered? This question has sparked much debate among scholars, theologians, and believers alike. The verse in question, which reads, “And when they had seen him, they worshipped him: but some doubted,” is often scrutinized for its authenticity and potential alterations over time. In this article, we will delve into the historical context, textual criticism, and apologetics surrounding this verse to determine whether it has been altered or not.
The New Testament, including the Gospel of Matthew, has been subject to textual criticism since its inception. Textual criticism is the study of the manuscripts and their variations to reconstruct the original text as closely as possible. When it comes to Matthew 28:19, some scholars argue that the verse has been altered to support a particular theological perspective or to address early Christian controversies.
One of the main arguments against the alteration of Matthew 28:19 is the early attestation of the verse in various manuscripts. The verse is found in almost all early Greek manuscripts, including those from the second and third centuries. This early attestation suggests that the verse was likely part of the original text and has not been significantly altered over time.
Moreover, the textual evidence from the Syriac, Latin, and Coptic versions of the New Testament also supports the authenticity of Matthew 28:19. These versions, which date back to the second and third centuries, contain the verse in its original form, further reinforcing the argument that the verse has not been altered.
Apologetics, the defense of the Christian faith, plays a crucial role in addressing the question of whether Matthew 28:19 has been altered. Those who argue against alteration often point to the historical and textual evidence as strong evidence of the verse’s authenticity. They assert that the early attestation, along with the support from various manuscript traditions, demonstrates that the verse has remained unchanged throughout the centuries.
On the other hand, some scholars propose that Matthew 28:19 has been altered to address the early Christian controversy over the nature of Jesus’ resurrection. They argue that the verse was added to clarify the belief in Jesus’ resurrection and to counteract doubts among some of his followers. However, this argument is met with skepticism by many scholars, who maintain that the early attestation and manuscript evidence support the verse’s authenticity.
In conclusion, the question of whether Matthew 28:19 has been altered is a topic of much debate. While some scholars argue for alteration, the overwhelming evidence from historical, textual, and apologetical perspectives suggests that the verse has remained unchanged. The early attestation in various manuscripts, along with the support from the Syriac, Latin, and Coptic versions, strongly indicates that Matthew 28:19 is an authentic part of the original Gospel of Matthew. As believers and scholars continue to study the New Testament, the authenticity of this verse will undoubtedly remain a subject of interest and discussion.
