User:Wikilagata/Internal Biblical Evidence of Jesus' Historicity

The Epistles in the New Testament are accepted by scholars to be the earliest written sources that speak of the existence of Jesus. However, due to their mostly theological nature, these early sources do not list many quotes from Jesus nor talk about his life. Instead, they concern themselves strictly to proper religious practice. Many scholars who believe in the Jesus Myth cite this as evidence that there was never a flesh and blood Jesus who said anything.

They assert that Jesus was more myth than man because, most of what is known about Jesus is from the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. All of these Gospels are likely dated past the year 70 CE aside from possibly Mark. These Gospels are the main source of quotations attributed to Jesus and are the only sources that describe the events of Jesus' life. Their late date of creation lead many to believe that much of what is written in these Gospels has no historic basis.

Internal Biblical Evidence That Points To a Historical Jesus

Within the passages found in the Gospels are many parallels, paraphrases, and even quotations that are shared with the Epistles. This means that the material found in the Gospels, though written after 70 CE, has an earlier recorded basis. This is because it is commonly believed that the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, were a mix of the Gospel of Mark and a theoretical source named “Q”. Q, which is supposedly a written record of Jesus' quotations, was probably written before Mark. However, because Q has never been found, it will probably never be dated. Nevertheless, many Q sayings have parallels in the Epistles. This means that wherever Q derived itself from had specific beliefs that existed during the time of the Apostles' letters, if not before. Thus, this increases the probability there was a historical Jesus, because it shows that the sources of the Gospels shared common origins in belief with that of the writers of the Epistles. This is opposed to the idea that the sayings of Jesus were some sort of later concoction (see Jesus Myth).

As a general note, scholars debate whether some of the Epistles were real or pseudographical. Thus, this must be considered when verifying early knowledge of Jesus’ sayings. For a general synopsis and dating of the Epistles, http://www.earlychristianwritings.com is recommended. It is important to remember that though several works are likely pseudographical, that does not mean that all or any are.

Parallels Found in Matthew

Matthew was likely based upon two written sources, Mark and Q. In particular, there are many examples of close parallels between this later written source and the Epistles. This demonstrates that the material found in Matthew does have an early historical basis equivalent to that of the Epistles.

Example 1:

Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.

1 Peter 3:14 But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.

Peter pretty much paraphrases a spiffy comment, “blessed are the peacemakers.” Some scholars consider 1 Peter to be pseudographical.

Example 2:

Matthew 5:37 Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes', and your 'No', 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.

James 5:12 Above all, my brothers, do not swear— not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your Yes be yes, and your No, no, or you will be condemned.

This appears to be evidence that the Apostle James was aware of Q sayings or that Q sayings preceded James. The theological point and language in the above two quotations are extremely similar. However, some scholars consider James to be pseudographical, though likely early dated.

Example 3:

Matthew 5:39 But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.

1 Peter 3:9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.

If one reads past Matthew 5:39, it pretty much makes the same theological point as 1 Peter 3:9. Some scholars consider believe 1 Peter is pseudographical.

However, Lamentations 3:30 is probably the bona fida origin of this saying in the Jewish tradition: Let him offer his cheek to one who would strike him, and let him be filled with disgrace.

Example 4

Matthew 6:4 ...so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Romans 2:16 This will take place on the day when God will judge men's secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares.

The language is different, but the theology is exactly the same. Notice the use of the word “secret” in the same context.

Example 5:

Matthew 6:20-21 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also

2 Corinthians 4:6-10 For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,"[a]made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.

Here, the word “treasure” is being used in the same context, but the theology is more precise and specific. People store up treasure by having faith in Jesus. HThere are two more Epistles quotes that mirror Jesus’ words more closely:

1 Timothy 6:17-19 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

This has the same idea as the Matthew quote. James gets it even closer in James 5:1-3: Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming upon you. 2 Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days.

The mentioning of both rust (corrosion) and moths makes this parallel likely not a coincidence in theology or language. However, some scholars consider 1 Timothy and James to be pseudographical.

Example 6:

Matthew 7:1-2 Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way as you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

Romans 2:1 You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. James 4:11-12 Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. 12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you— who are you to judge your neighbour?

One can observe that there are parallels in theology and language in the above sources. James might be pseudographical, but Romans, as are many of Paul’s letters’ authenticity, are uncontested.

Example 7:

Matthew 7:18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.

James 3:12 My brothers, can a fig-tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

There appears to be an identical idea purported by both of the above, but with a slight difference in delivery. However, James might be pseudographical.

Example 8:

Matthew 7:21 Not every one who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven

James 2:14 14What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?

The theology of the above is identical. However, some scholars believe James is pseudographical.

Example 9:

Matthew 7:24 Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.

James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 1 Corinthians 13:10-15 By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds. 11For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, 13his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. 14If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. 15If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames. Hebrews 6:1 Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God,

An identical idea is being expressed in the above passages. One is told to listen to Jesus' words and practice them, because only this would give foundation to one’s faith. However, some scholars believe James is pseudographical. Nonetheless, Corinthians (definitely written by [[the Apostle Paul) and Hebrews (which is possibly also written by Paul), get even more specific and mention the word “foundation” in the same context.

Example 10:

Matthew 8:5-13 As he entered Caper'na-um, a centurion came forward to him, beseeching him 8.6 and saying, "Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, in terrible distress." 8.7 And he said to him, "I will come and heal him." 8.8 But the centurion answered him, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8.9 For I am a man under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes, and to another, 'Come,' and he comes, and to my slave, 'Do this,' and he does it." 8.10 When Jesus heard him, he marveled, and said to those who followed him, "Truly, I say to you, not even in Israel have I found such faith. 8.11 I tell you, many will come from east and west and sit at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, 8.12 while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth." 8.13 And to the centurion Jesus said, "Go; be it done for you as you have believed." And the servant was healed at that very moment.

Romans 9:30-31 What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; 31but Israel, who pursued a law of righteousness, has not attained it.

The parallel here is that the gentiles have more faith inn accordance with Jesus’ Way than the Israelites.

Example 11:

Matthew 10:9-10 Do not take along any gold or silver or copper in your belts; 10 take no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep.

1 Corinthians 9:14 In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.

Both passages are the same in meaning. They are both commands from the Lord, who here is Jesus. The author of Matthew appears to have created a new context for this Q saying.

Example 12:

Matthew 10:20 for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.

1 Corinthians 2:4-5 My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, 5 so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power.

Theologically these are the same: the words one utters in God’s ministry are from his spirit.

Example 13:

Matthew 10:26 So do not be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.

1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.

Paul’s quote seems to be a paraphrase of the Gospel quote.

Example 14:

Matthew 10:27 What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs.

Gospel of Thomas 33 Jesus said, "What you will hear in your ear, in the other ear proclaim from your rooftops. After all, no one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, nor does one put it in a hidden place. Rather, one puts it on a lampstand so that all who come and go will see its light."

2 Peter 1:19-21 And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

The quote from Peter seems to have more in common with the Gospel of Thomas: what was hidden is revealed by the prophets’ foreknowledge of Jesus. Then again, this passage might be referring to Numbers 24:17 and not to the Gospel of Thomas or Matthew at all. Furthermore, 2 Peter is likely pseudographical.

Example 15:

Matthew 11:25 At that time Jesus declared, "I thank thee, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes;

1 Corinthians 1:26-30 Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29so that no one may boast before him. 30It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 1 Corinthians 3:1 Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly—mere infants in Christ

The parallels here are that Christians are referred to as babies and are given great amounts of understanding when compared to those high and wise by “human standards.”

Example 16:

Matthew 13:11 He answered, “To you has been given to know the secrets [(some ancient authorities say “mysteries”)] of the kingdom of heaven…”

1 Corinthians 2:1 And I, having come unto you, brethren, came -- not in superiority of discourse or wisdom -- declaring to you the testimony [(some ancient authorities say “mystery”]) of God…

If the correct ancient sources said “mystery,” then this is a striking parallel, because no where in the old testament is there a mention of the “mystery of God.”

Example 17:

Matthew 15:11 not what goes into the mouth defiles a man, but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.

Romans 14:14 I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself; but it is unclean for any one who thinks it unclean.

The sentence structure and theology in these two passages is a striking parallel.

Example 18:

Matthew 15:14 Let them alone; they are blind guides. And if a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit."

Romans 2:19-21 if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, 20an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of infants, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— 21you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal?

The above parallel each other in language and theology. Paul was using the analogy to condemn those who taught Christians to follow Jewish law, when they without a doubt break the law. Matthew uses the Q quote to justify Jesus’ opposition to strict adherence to the law, while in Luke, Jesus urges his disciples to accept his religious guidance and not judge others. The Gospel of Thomas leaves the parable unexplained.

Example 19:

Matthew 15:19 For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.

This is called a sin list. It was popular at the time and found in 2 of Paul’s letters.

1 Corinthians 6:9-11 Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders 10 nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

There are many identical sins are found in both passages. See Galatians 5:19-21 for another such list.

Example 20:

Matthew 16:6 …beware of the leaven of the Pharisees…

1 Corinthians 5:6-8 Your boasting is not good. Don't you know that a little yeast works through the whole batch of dough? 7 Get rid of the old yeast that you may be a new batch without yeast— as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. 8 Therefore let us keep the Festival, not with the old yeast, the yeast of malice and wickedness, but with bread without yeast, the bread of sincerity and truth. Galatians 5:9 A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough.

The parallel here is that the idea of ceremonial impurity of Passover is being used as an allegory of moral impurity.

Example 21:

Matthew 16:27 For, the Son of Man is about to come in the glory of his Father, with his messengers, and then he will reward each, according to his work.

Romans 2:6 6who [God] shall render to each according to his works; 2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due to him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.

The above passages have the same idea, and though 2 Corinthians 5:10 has different language, Romans 2:6 is remarkably close when read in its original Greek.

Matthew 16:27 …apodwsei ekastw| kata thn pracin autou. 

Romans 2:6 …apodwsei ekastw| kata ta erga autou, …

It is often postulated that Paul is quoting Psalms 62:12: And with Thee, O Lord, [is] kindness, For Thou dost recompense to each, According to his work! …apodwseiv ekastw kata ta erga autou (Septuagint translation)

Each have very minor differences in wording, and Paul might have just been quoting Psalms 62:12. However, it is possible that Paul was quoting Jesus, who was in turn quoting Psalms 62:12.

Example 22:

Matthew 17:20 He said to them, "Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you."

1 Corinthians 13:2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

Both passages have the exact same idea: faith can move mountains, thus accomplish great things.

Example 23:

Matthew 18:1-5 (The importance of being humble) 1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? 2 He called a little child and had him stand among them. 3 And he said: I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me.

There are two close to identical quotes from James and Peter that refer to the importance of being humble: 1 Peter 5:5-6 Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility towards one another, because, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. 6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. James 4:6, 10 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble....Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

Due to the fact that Peter and James use identical language, particularly the use of "lift you up," it is likely they are referencing an earlier source. Furthermore, the fact that Peter speaks of "young men" appears to show a connection between the importance of being humble in both Matthew and Peter. However, both sources might be pseudographical.

Example 24:

Matthew 19:10-12 The disciples said to him, If this is the situation between a husband and wife, it is better not to marry. 11 Jesus replied, Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given. 12 For some are eunuchs because they were born that way; others were made that way by men; and others have renounced marriage because of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.

1 Corinthians 7:1-11 includes Paul’s exact same opinion concerning marriage and sexual relations: 1 Now for the matters you wrote about: It is good for a man not to marry. 2 But since there is so much immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband. 3 The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. 4 The wife's body does not belong to her alone but also to her husband. In the same way, the husband's body does not belong to him alone but also to his wife. 5 Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. 6 I say this as a concession, not as a command. 7 I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that. 8 Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I am. 9 But if they cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion. 10 To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. 11 But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife.

Example 25:

Matthew 19:23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.

1 Timothy 6:9-10 People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Both passages share the same idea. However, passages in the Old Testament attest to the same idea, but they do not condemn wealth altogether. Furthermore, 1 Timothy might be pseudographical.

Example 26:

Matthew 19:28 Jesus said to them, I tell you the truth, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

1 Corinthians 6:1-2 1 If any of you has a dispute with another, dare he take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the saints? 2 Do you not know that the saints will judge the world?

While Paul often talks about God or Jesus judging, here he adds the idea of “saints” judging. This idea is much alike that of the disciples judging found in Luke. However, Paul might be referring to the men and women of the Old Testament.

Example 27:

Matthew 20:26-27 It shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 20.27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave

1 Corinthians 9:19 Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible.

The theology and the use of the word “slave” parallel each other.

Example 28:

Matthew 20:28 even as the Son of Man did not come to be ministered to, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

1 Peter 1:18-19 (Young’s Literal Translation) having known that, not with corruptible things -- silver or gold -- were ye redeemed from your foolish behaviour delivered by fathers, 19but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and unspotted -- Christ's –

Both passages speak of the idea of Jesus redeeming humanity as if paying a ransom. Thus, the parallel Matthew has with Peter’s letter, if not a coincidence, can be evidence of an earlier origin of Jesus’ recorded sayings. However, 1 Peter might be pseudographical.

Example 29:

Matthew 21:42-43 Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the scriptures: 'The very stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner; this was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes'? 21.43 Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation producing the fruits of it."

Ephesians 2:20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 1 Peter 2:7 7Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, "The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone”

Only in the New Testament is Jesus the “cornerstone” from Psalms 118:22. However, due to an apparent alteration in parts of Paul’s theology in Ephesians, and doubts of 1 Peter’s authenticity, it is possible that the Epistles presented here are pseudographical.

Example 30:

Matthew 22:21 …Then he said to them, Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's.

This famous line sums up ideas from Paul and Peter nicely: Romans 13:7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honour, then honour. 1 Peter 2:15-17 For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. 16 Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. 17 Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honour the king.

Peter’s especially sums up the meaning behind Matthew 22:21. Furthermore, the sentence structure found in Romans 13:7 is reminiscent of Matthew 22:21.

Example 31:

Matthew 22:30 For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven.

1 Corinthians 15:35-50 35But someone may ask, "How are the dead raised? With what kind of body will they come?" 36How foolish! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. 37When you sow, you do not plant the body that will be, but just a seed, perhaps of wheat or of something else. 38But God gives it a body as he has determined, and to each kind of seed he gives its own body. 39All flesh is not the same: Men have one kind of flesh, animals have another, birds another and fish another. 40There are also heavenly bodies and there are earthly bodies; but the splendor of the heavenly bodies is one kind, and the splendor of the earthly bodies is another. 41The sun has one kind of splendor, the moon another and the stars another; and star differs from star in splendor.

42So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; 43it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; 44it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.
     If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. 45So it is written: "The first man Adam became a living being"[a]; the last Adam, a life-giving spirit. 46The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual. 47The first man was of the dust of the earth, the second man from heaven. 48As was the earthly man, so are those who are of the earth; and as is the man from heaven, so also are those who are of heaven. 49And just as we have borne the likeness of the earthly man, so shall we[b] bear the likeness of the man from heaven. 
50I declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable.

Both passages confirm that the resurrection is not physical, but spiritual.

Example 32:

Matthew 22:39 And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'

1 John 4:21 And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother. Romans 13:9 The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Galatians 5:14 The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."

James 2:8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right.

Though the quote Jesus is referring to is Leviticus 19:18, John agrees with Matthew (and the Gospels of Mark and Luke) that Jesus said this. However, some scholars consider John and James to be pseudographical. Nonetheless, it is quoted in four Epistles, and so it is very likely that a Historical Jesus did say this and put great emphasis on it.

Example 33:

Matthew 24:7-8, 43-44’s idea of the world coming to an end: Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of birth-pains…But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.

1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, Peace and safety, destruction will come on them suddenly, as labour pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 2 Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.

As we see above, the parallel is quire clear, because both passages speak of thievery and birth pains in the same context. Furthermore, Peter appears to be referencing the same saying attributed to Jesus. However, many scholars believe 2 Peter is pseudographical.

Example 34:

Similarity in use of theological language: Matthew 24:22 22And if those days were not shortened, no flesh would have been saved; but because of the chosen, shall those days be shortened.

Romans 8:33 33Who shall lay a charge against the choice ones of God? God [is] He that is declaring righteous, Col 3:12 Put on, therefore, as choice ones of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humble-mindedness, meekness, long-suffering,

Paul purports that there is an “elect” or “chosen” among the people who are lucky to have God’s grace. This idea, if it was only Paul’s, some how found its way in Q, or Matthew made a lucky guess of a profound theological idea that is the basis of Christianity.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites as a whole are the only ones ever called the “chosen ones” (see http://www.biblegateway.com/keyword/?search=%22chosen+ones%22&searchtype=all&version1=15&spanbegin=1&spanend=73), but Matthew (and a similar passage in Mark 13:18-20 and Luke 18:7) talk of the chosen ones as an elect of God’s grace. This is specifically a New Testament idea and so whatever Paul is referring to is apparently the same as what Mark is originally referring to—the historical Jesus.

Example 35:

Matthew 26:26-30 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, Take and eat; this is my body. 27 Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, Drink from it, all of you. 28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father's kingdom. 30 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

1 Corinthians 11:23-25 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me. 25 In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.

The same exact ceremony is quoted here, though it does have early connections with Mithraism.

Example 36:

Matthew 26:64 64Jesus saith to him, `Thou hast said; nevertheless I say to you, hereafter ye shall see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of the power, and coming upon the clouds, of the heaven.'

The idea of the right hand is found all over Paul’s writings. The following are two examples of Paul’s idea of the right hand directly paralleling that found in Matthew: Romans 8:34 who [is] he that is condemning? Christ [is] He that died, yea, rather also, was raised up; who is also on the right hand of God -- who also doth intercede for us. Colossians 3:1 1If, then, ye were raised with the Christ, the things above seek ye, where the Christ is, on the right hand of God seated,

In the Old Testament, the “right hand” exclusively refers to God’s ability to act through humans or assist humans. For a list of every time this term has been used in the Bible, see the following link (http://www.biblegateway.com/keyword/?search="right%20hand"&version1=31&searchtype=all). The idea of being on or helped by God’s right hand is all over the Old Testament. However, the idea of having a particular individual, that being Jesus himself, on God’s right hand is mentioned several times by both Paul and Peter. Because of this, the passage in Matthew derives itself from origins at least as early as the Epistles.

Example 37:

Matthew 27:51 And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom; and the earth shook, and the rocks were split;

Hebrews 10:19-20 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body,

The parallel here deals with the curtain. It covered the entrance of the “Most Holy Place” inside the Temple, and with it torn, everyone was given access to God through Jesus’ death. Hebrews is often attributed to the Apostle Paul, but he no where signs it. However, this letter was quoted by Clement in 95 C.E. Therefore, it is likely that it was written decades earlier.

Parallels Found in Mark

The Gospel of Mark is perhaps the earliest written narrative concerning Jesus, and Matthew and Luke owe much of their structure and theology to this Gospel. Thus, parallels found here are especially important, because it shows that Mark too has an earlier historical basis much like Q.

Example 1:

Mark 3:29 But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; he is guilty of an eternal sin.

1 John 5:16 If anyone sees his brother commit a sin that does not lead to death, he should pray and God will give him life. I refer to those whose sin does not lead to death. There is a sin that leads to death. I am not saying that he should pray about that.

The parallel here is in the theological belief that there are two kinds of sins: sins that specifically cause death (“etetnal sin”) and sins that do not. This separation is not found elsewhere in the Old Testament or New Testament. However, many scholars believe 1 John is pseudographical.

Example 2

Mark 4:11 And he said to them, “To you has been given the secret [(some ancient authorities say “mystery)] of the kingdom of God, but for purposes of those outside, everything comes in parables…”

1 Corinthians 2:1 And I, having come unto you, brethren, came -- not in superiority of discourse or wisdom -- declaring to you the testimony [(some ancient authorities say “mystery”]) of God…

If the correct ancient sources said “mystery,” then this is a striking parallel, because no where in the old testament is there a mention of the “mystery of God.”

Example 3:

Mark 4:21-23 He said to them, Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don't you put it on its stand? 22 For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open. 23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.

Gospel of Thomas 33 Jesus said, "What you will hear in your ear, in the other ear proclaim from your rooftops. After all, no one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, nor does one put it in a hidden place. Rather, one puts it on a lampstand so that all who come and go will see its light."

1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.

Paul’s quote seems to be a paraphrase of the Gospel quote.

2 Peter 1:19-21 And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

The quote from Peter has the same implication as that of Mark: what was hidden is revealed by the prophets’ foreknowledge of Jesus. Then again, this passage might be referring to Numbers 24:17 and not to the Gospels of Thomas or Mark at all. Furthermore, 2 Peter is considered by many scholars to be pseudographical.

Example 4

Mark 7:15 there is nothing outside a man which by going into him can defile him; but the things which come out of a man are what defile him.

Romans 14:14 I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself; but it is unclean for any one who thinks it unclean.

The sentence structure and theology in these two passages is a striking parallel.

Example 5

Mark 7:21-22 For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, fornication, theft, murder, adultery, 7.22coveting, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, foolishness.

This is called a sin list. It was popular at the time and found in 2 of Paul’s letters.

Galatians 5:19-21 The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

There are many identical sins are found in both passages. See 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 for another such list. The Gospels of Matthew and Mark have different sin lists which correspond loosely with separate Paul passages. Perhaps the writers of the separate Gospels had their hands on separate letters from Paul, or Paul, having heard or read what Jesus said in two separate occasions, invoked Jesus’ lists in two separate occasions.

Example 6

Mark 8:15 …beware of the leaven of the Pharisees…

1 Corinthians 5:6-8 Your boasting is not good. Don't you know that a little yeast works through the whole batch of dough? 7 Get rid of the old yeast that you may be a new batch without yeast— as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. 8 Therefore let us keep the Festival, not with the old yeast, the yeast of malice and wickedness, but with bread without yeast, the bread of sincerity and truth. Galatians 5:9 A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough.

The parallel here is that the idea of ceremonial impurity of Passover is being used as an allegory of moral impurity.

Example 7:

Mark 8:38 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels."

Romans 1:16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.

The parallel here is the use of the word “ashamed” in the context of it not being wise to be ashamed of “me and my words”—the Gospel.

Example 8:

Mark 9:34-37 But they were silent; for on the way they had discussed with one another who was the greatest. 9.35And he sat down and called the twelve; and he said to them, "If any one would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all." 9.36And he took a child, and put him in the midst of them; and taking him in his arms, he said to them, 9.37 "Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me."

There are two close to identical quotes from James and Peter that refer to the importance of being humble: 1 Peter 5:5-6 Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility towards one another, because, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. 6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. James 4:6, 10 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble....Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

Due to the fact that Peter and James use identical language, particularly the use of "lift you up," it is likely they are referencing an earlier source. Furthermore, the fact that Peter speaks of "young men" appears to show a connection between the importance of being humble in both Matthew and Peter. However, both sources might be pseudographical.

Example 9:

Mark 10:11 And he said to them, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another, commits adultery against her; 10.12and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery."

1 Corinthians 7:10 To the married I give charge, not I but the Lord, that the wife should not separate from her husband 11 (but if she does, let her remain single or else be reconciled to her husband) --and that the husband should not divorce his wife.

Paul invokes a command about marriage just like Mark purports to. The idea being conveyed is identical as well. Matthew 5:31-32 and Luke 16:18 also have likewise passages.

Example 10:

Mark 10:21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."

1 Timothy 6:17-19 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

Both passages speak of “treasures in heaven” and have identical theology. However, some scholars consider 1 Timothy to be pseudographical.

Example 11:

Mark 10:23 And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it will be for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!"

1 Timothy 6:9-10 People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Both passages share the same idea. However, passages in the Old Testament attest to the same idea, but they do not condemn wealth altogether. Furthermore, 1 Timothy might be pseudographical.

Example 12:

Mark 10:43-44 But it shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 10.44and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.

1 Corinthians 9:19 Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible.

The parallel here is in not only theology, but the use of the word “slave” in the same context.

Example 13:

Mark 10:45 28 For the Son of man also came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

1 Peter 1:18-19 (Young’s Literal Translation) having known that, not with corruptible things -- silver or gold -- were ye redeemed from your foolish behaviour delivered by fathers, 19but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and unspotted -- Christ's –

Both passages speak of the idea of Jesus redeeming humanity as if paying a ransom. Thus, the parallel Matthew has with Peter’s letter, if not a coincidence, can be evidence of an earlier origin of Jesus’ recorded sayings. However, 1 Peter might be pseudographical.

Example 14:

Mark 11:23 Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be taken up and cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him.

1 Corinthians 13:2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

Both passages have the exact same idea: faith can move mountains, thus accomplish great things.

Example 15:

Mark 12:10-11 Have you not read this scripture: 'The very stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner; 12.11this was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes'?"

Ephesians 2:20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 1 Peter 2:7 7Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, "The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone”

Only in the New Testament is Jesus the “cornerstone” from Psalms 118:22. However, due to an apparent alteration in parts of Paul’s theology in Ephesians, and doubts of 1 Peter’s authenticity, it is possible that the Epistles presented here are pseudographical.

Example 16:

Mark 12:17 Jesus said to them, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."

This famous line sums up ideas from Paul and Peter nicely: Romans 13:7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honour, then honour. 1 Peter 2:15-17 For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. 16 Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. 17 Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honour the king.

Peter’s especially sums up the meaning behind Matthew 22:21. Furthermore, the sentence structure found in Romans 13:7 is reminiscent of Matthew 22:21.

Example 17:

Mark 12:25 For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven.

1 Corinthians 15:35-50 35But someone may ask, "How are the dead raised? With what kind of body will they come?" 36How foolish! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. 37When you sow, you do not plant the body that will be, but just a seed, perhaps of wheat or of something else. 38But God gives it a body as he has determined, and to each kind of seed he gives its own body. 39All flesh is not the same: Men have one kind of flesh, animals have another, birds another and fish another. 40There are also heavenly bodies and there are earthly bodies; but the splendor of the heavenly bodies is one kind, and the splendor of the earthly bodies is another. 41The sun has one kind of splendor, the moon another and the stars another; and star differs from star in splendor.

42So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; 43it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; 44it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.
     If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. 45So it is written: "The first man Adam became a living being"[a]; the last Adam, a life-giving spirit. 46The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual. 47The first man was of the dust of the earth, the second man from heaven. 48As was the earthly man, so are those who are of the earth; and as is the man from heaven, so also are those who are of heaven. 49And just as we have borne the likeness of the earthly man, so shall we[b] bear the likeness of the man from heaven. 
50I declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable.

Both passages confirm that the resurrection is not physical, but spiritual.

Example 18:

Mark 12:31 The second is this, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."

1 John 4:21 And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother. Romans 13:9 The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Galatians 5:14 The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." James 2:8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right.

Though the quote Jesus is referring to is Leviticus 19:18, John agrees with Matthew (and the Gospels of Mark and Luke) that Jesus said this. However, some scholars consider John and James to be pseudographical. Nonetheless, it is quoted in four Epistles, and so it is very likely that a Historical Jesus did say this and put great emphasis on it.

Example 19:

Mark 13:8 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be earthquakes in various places, there will be famines; this is but the beginning of the birth-pangs.

1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, Peace and safety, destruction will come on them suddenly, as labour pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

As we see above, the parallel is quire clear, because both passages speak of birth pains in the same context.

Example 20:

Similarity in use of theological language: Mark 13:22 22 And if the Lord had not shortened the days, no human being would be saved; but for the sake of the elect, whom he chose, he shortened the days.

Romans 8:33 33Who shall lay a charge against the choice ones of God? God [is] He that is declaring righteous, Col 3:12 Put on, therefore, as choice ones of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humble-mindedness, meekness, long-suffering,

Paul purports that there is an “elect” or “chosen” among the people who are lucky to have God’s grace. This idea, if it was only Paul’s, some how found its way in Q, or Matthew made a lucky guess of a profound theological idea that is the basis of Christianity.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites as a whole are the only ones ever called the “chosen ones” (see http://www.biblegateway.com/keyword/?search=%22chosen+ones%22&searchtype=all&version1=15&spanbegin=1&spanend=73), but Mark talks of the chosen ones as an elect of God’s grace. This is specifically a New Testament idea and so whatever Paul is referring to is apparently the same as what Mark is originally referring to—the historical Jesus.

Example 21:

Mark 14:22-25 And as they were eating, he took bread, and blessed, and broke it, and gave it to them, and said, "Take; this is my body." 14.23And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. 14.24And he said to them, "This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. 14.25Truly, I say to you, I shall not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God."

1 Corinthians 11:23-25 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me. 25 In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.

The same exact ceremony is quoted here, though it does have early connections with Mithraism.

Example 22:

Mark 14:62 And Jesus said, "I am; and you will see the Son of man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven."

The idea of the right hand is found all over Paul’s writings. The following are two examples of Paul’s idea of the right hand directly paralleling that found in Mark: Romans 8:34 who [is] he that is condemning? Christ [is] He that died, yea, rather also, was raised up; who is also on the right hand of God -- who also doth intercede for us. Col 3:1 1If, then, ye were raised with the Christ, the things above seek ye, where the Christ is, on the right hand of God seated,

In the Old Testament, the “right hand” exclusively refers to God’s ability to act through humans or assist humans. For a list of every time this term has been used in the Bible, see the following link (http://www.biblegateway.com/keyword/?search="right%20hand"&version1=31&searchtype=all). The idea of being on or helped by God’s right hand is all over the Old Testament. However, the idea of having a particular individual, that being Jesus himself, on God’s right hand is mentioned several times by both Paul and Peter. Because of this, the passage in Matthew derives itself from origins at least as early as the Epistles.

Example 23:

Mark 15:38 And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom.

Hebrews 10:19-20 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body,

The parallel here deals with the curtain. It covered the entrance of the “Most Holy Place” inside the Temple, and with it torn, everyone was given access to God through Jesus’ death. Hebrews is often attributed to the Apostle Paul, but he no where signs it. However, this letter was quoted by Clement in 95 C.E. Therefore, it is likely that it was written decades earlier.

Parallels Found in Luke

The author of Luke himself claims that "many have undertaken to set down an orderly account of the events" that were based on sources "handed on to us by eyewitnesses" (Luke 1:1-2). This means that there could have been several sources, possibly Matthew, Mark, Thomas, Q, or even more that were considered to be fairly accurate portrayals of Jesus' life and sayings. The author clearly states that he is basing his Gospel after "investigating everything" from the several sources available to him (Luke 1:3). However, one should note that the author is far more loose with his use of Mark, the earliest Gospel, than Matthew.. Whether this makes his Gospel more or less accurate cannot be known. The following are parallels between what is written in Luke and the Epistles.

Example 1:

Luke 6:29 To him who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from him who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt.

1 Peter 3:9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.

If one reads past Matthew 5:39, it pretty much makes the same theological point as 1 Peter 3:9. Some scholars consider believe 1 Peter is pseudographical.

However, Lamentations 3:30 is probably the bona fida origin of this saying in the Jewish tradition: Let him offer his cheek to one who would strike him, and let him be filled with disgrace.

Example 2:

Luke 6:37 Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven

Romans 2:1 You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. James 4:11-12 Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. 12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you— who are you to judge your neighbour?

One can observe that there are parallels in theology and language in the above sources. James might be pseudographical, but Romans, as are many of Paul’s letters’ authenticity, are uncontested.

Example 3:

Luke 6:39 He also told them a parable: "Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit?

Romans 2:19-21 if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, 20an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of infants, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— 21you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal?

The above parallel each other in language and theology. Paul was using the analogy to condemn those who taught Christians to follow Jewish law, when they without a doubt break the law. Matthew uses the Q quote to justify Jesus’ opposition to strict adherence to the law, while in Luke, Jesus urges his disciples to accept his religious guidance and not judge others. The Gospel of Thomas leaves the parable unexplained.

Example 4:

Luke 6:43-44 For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit; 6.44 for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush.

James 3:12 My brothers, can a fig-tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

There appears to be an identical idea purported by both of the above, but with a slight difference in delivery. However, James might be pseudographical.

Example 5:

Luke 6:46 Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and not do what I tell you?

James 2:14 14What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?

The theology of the above is identical. However, some scholars believe James is pseudographical.

Example 6:

Luke 6:47-48 Every one who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: 6.48 he is like a man building a house, who dug deep, and laid the foundation upon rock; and when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house, and could not shake it, because it had been well built

James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 1 Corinthians 13:10-15 10By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds. 11For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, 13his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. 14If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. 15If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames. Hebrews 6:1 Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God,

An identical idea is being expressed in the above passages. One is told to listen to Jesus' words and practice them, because only this would give foundation to one’s faith. However, some scholars believe James is pseudographical. Nonetheless, Corinthians (definitely written by [[the Apostle Paul) and Hebrews (which is possibly also written by Paul), get even more specific and mention the word “foundation” in the same context.

Example 7:

Luke 7:1-10 After he had ended all his sayings in the hearing of the people he entered Caper'na-um. 7.2 Now a centurion had a slave who was dear to him, who was sick and at the point of death. 7.3 When he heard of Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his slave. 7.4 And when they came to Jesus, they besought him earnestly, saying, "He is worthy to have you do this for him, 7.5 for he loves our nation, and he built us our synagogue." 7.6 And Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying to him, "Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; 7.7 therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed. 7.8 For I am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes; and to another, 'Come,' and he comes; and to my slave, 'Do this,' and he does it." 7.9 When Jesus heard this he marveled at him, and turned and said to the multitude that followed him, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith." 7.10 And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the slave well.

Romans 9:30-31 What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; 31but Israel, who pursued a law of righteousness, has not attained it.

The parallel here is that the gentiles have more faith inn accordance with Jesus’ Way than the Israelites.

Example 8:

Luke 8:10 he said, "To you it has been given to know the secrets [(some ancient authorities say “mysteries)] of the kingdom of God; but for others they are in parables, so that seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand.”

1 Corinthians 2:1 And I, having come unto you, brethren, came -- not in superiority of discourse or wisdom -- declaring to you the testimony [(some ancient authorities say “mystery”]) of God…

If the correct ancient sources said “mystery,” then this is a striking parallel, because no where in the old testament is there a mention of the “mystery of God.”

Example 9:

Luke 8:16 No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a vessel, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, that those who enter may see the light. 8.17 For nothing is hid that shall not be made manifest, nor anything secret that shall not be known and come to light.

Gospel of Thomas 33 Jesus said, "What you will hear in your ear, in the other ear proclaim from your rooftops. After all, no one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, nor does one put it in a hidden place. Rather, one puts it on a lampstand so that all who come and go will see its light."

2 Peter 1:19-21 And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

The quote from Peter also has a lot in common with the Gospel of Thomas: what was hidden is revealed by the prophets’ foreknowledge of Jesus. Then again, this passage might be referring to Numbers 24:17 and not to the Gospels of Thomas or Luke at all. Furthermore, 2 Peter is likely pseudographical.

Example 10:

Luke 9:26 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels

Romans 1:16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.

The parallel here is the use of the word “ashamed” in the context of it not being wise to be ashamed of “me and my words”—the Gospel.

Example 11:

Luke 9:46-48 And an argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest. 9.47 But when Jesus perceived the thought of their hearts, he took a child and put him by his side, 9.48 and said to them, "Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me; for he who is least among you all is the one who is great."

There are two close to identical quotes from James and Peter that refer to the importance of being humble: 1 Peter 5:5-6 Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility towards one another, because, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. 6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.

James 4:6, 10 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble....Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

Due to the fact that Peter and James use identical language, particularly the use of "lift you up," it is likely they are referencing an earlier source. Furthermore, the fact that Peter speaks of "young men" appears to show a connection between the importance of being humble in both Matthew and Peter. However, both sources might be pseudographical.

Example 12:

Luke 10:3-7 Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. 10.4 Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and salute no one on the road. 10.5 Whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace be to this house!' 10.6 And if a son of peace is there, your peace shall rest upon him; but if not, it shall return to you. 10.7 And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages; do not go from house to house.

1 Corinthians 9:13-14 13 Do you not know that those who are employed in the temple service get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in the sacrificial offerings? 14 In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.

The message here is a Q message, also found in Matthew 10:19-20 and has the same message that Paul says Jesus himself had spoken.

Example 13:

Luke 10:21 In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, "I thank thee, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; yea, Father, for such was thy gracious will

1 Corinthians 1:26-30 Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29so that no one may boast before him. 30It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 1 Corinthians 3:1 Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly—mere infants in Christ

The parallels here are that Christians are referred to as babies and are given great amounts of understanding when compared to those high and wise by “human standards.”

Example 14:

Luke 10:27 And he answered, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself."

1 John 4:21 And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.

Romans 13:9 The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself."

Galatians 5:14 The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."

James 2:8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right.

Though the quote Jesus is referring to is Leviticus 19:18, John agrees with Matthew (and the Gospels of Mark and Luke) that Jesus said this. However, some scholars consider John to be pseudographical. Nonetheless, it is quoted in four Epistles, and so it is very likely that a Historical Jesus did say this and put great emphasis on it.

Example 15:

Luke 11:43 Woe to you Pharisees! for you love the best seat in the synagogues and salutations in the market places.

James 2:2-5 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. 3If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here's a good seat for you," but say to the poor man, "You stand there" or "Sit on the floor by my feet," 4have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?

5Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?

The parallels here are the condemnation of judging people by status and doing this at even a religious meeting.

Example 16:

Luke 11:49 Therefore also the Wisdom of God said, 'I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and persecute,'

The “Wisdom of God” is a very rarely used term in the Bible. It is used once in the Old Testament: 1 kings 3:28 fronhsiv qeou understanding, knowledge of God’s

However, the Greek used for “wisdom of God” in the New Testament does not follow that of the Septuagint.

Luke 11:49 sofia tou qeou wisdom of God 1 Corinthians 1:21 sofiav ton qeon wisdom of God 1 Corinthians 1:24 qeou sofian wisdom of God 1 Corinthians 2:7 qeou sofian wisdom of God Ephesians 3:10 sofia tou qeou wisdom of God

The term “wisdom of God” is a New Testament idea regarding God’s spirit imparting knowledge. Due to the parallel found only in Paul’s letters, Luke is referring to an idea at least as old as 1 Corinthians and probably originates with Jesus.

Example 17:

Luke 12:1 …beware of the leaven of the Pharisees…

1 Corinthians 5:6-8 Your boasting is not good. Don't you know that a little yeast works through the whole batch of dough? 7 Get rid of the old yeast that you may be a new batch without yeast— as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. 8 Therefore let us keep the Festival, not with the old yeast, the yeast of malice and wickedness, but with bread without yeast, the bread of sincerity and truth.

Galatians 5:9 A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough.

The parallel here is that the idea of ceremonial impurity of Passover is being used as an allegory of moral impurity.

Example 18:

Luke 12:2-3 Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. 12.3 Therefore whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.

1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.

Paul’s quote seems to be a paraphrase of the Gospel quote.

2 Peter 1:19-21 And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

The quote from Peter has the same implication as that of Mark: what was hidden is revealed by the prophets’ foreknowledge of Jesus. Then again, this passage might be referring to Numbers 24:17 and not to the Gospels of Thomas or Mark at all. Furthermore, 2 Peter is considered by many scholars to be pseudographical.

Example 19:

Luke 12:33 Sell your possessions, and give alms; provide yourselves with purses that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.

2 Corinthians 4:6-10 For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,"[a]made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.

Here, the word “treasure” is being used in the same context, but the theology is more precise and specific. People store up treasure by having faith in Jesus. HThere are two more Epistles quotes that mirror Jesus’ words more closely:

1 Timothy 6:17-19 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

This has the same idea as the Luke quote. James gets it even closer in James 5:1-3: Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming upon you. 2 Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days.

The mentioning of both rust (corrosion) and moths makes this parallel likely not a coincidence in theology or language. However, some scholars consider 1 Timothy and James to be pseudographical.

Example 20:

Luke 12:39-40 But know this, that if the householder had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have left his house to be broken into. 12.40 You also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an unexpected hour."

1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, Peace and safety, destruction will come on them suddenly, as labour pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 2 Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.

As we see above, the parallel is quire clear, because both passages speak of thievery in the same context. Furthermore, Peter appears to be referencing the same saying attributed to Jesus. However, many scholars believe 2 Peter is pseudographical.

Example 21:

Luke 16:8 The master commended the dishonest steward for his shrewdness; for the sons of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light.

Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 1 Thessalonians 5:5 5You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.

The parallel is the use of the term “sons of light” for Christians.

Example 22:

Similarity in use of theological language: Luke 18:7 And will not God vindicate his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them?

Romans 8:33 33Who shall lay a charge against the choice ones of God? God [is] He that is declaring righteous,

Col 3:12 Put on, therefore, as choice ones of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humble-mindedness, meekness, long-suffering,

Paul purports that there is an “elect” or “chosen” among the people who are lucky to have God’s grace. This idea, if it was only Paul’s, some how found its way in Q, or Matthew made a lucky guess of a profound theological idea that is the basis of Christianity.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites as a whole are the only ones ever called the “chosen ones” (see http://www.biblegateway.com/keyword/?search=%22chosen+ones%22&searchtype=all&version1=15&spanbegin=1&spanend=73), but Mark talks of the chosen ones as an elect of God’s grace. This is specifically a New Testament idea and so whatever Paul is referring to is apparently the same as what Mark is originally referring to—the historical Jesus.

Example 23:

Luke 18:9-14 He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others: 18.10 " Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 18.11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, 'God, I thank thee that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 18.12 I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.' 18.13 But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me a sinner!' 18.14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted."

Romans 3:21-28 21But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, 23for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 25God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement,[a] through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— 26he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.

27Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. On what principle? On that of observing the law? No, but on that of faith. 28For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law.

The parallel here is the use of the word “boasting” to show misdirected holiness towards Jewish law instead of humbling oneself and having faith in Jesus. Thus, the theology here is exactly the same.

Example 24:

Luke 18:22 And when Jesus heard it, he said to him, "One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me."

1 Timothy 6:17-19 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

Both passages speak of “treasures in heaven” and have identical theology. However, some scholars consider 1 Timothy to be pseudographical.

Example 25:

Luke 18:24-25 Jesus looking at him said, "How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God! 18.25 For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."

1 Timothy 6:9-10 People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Both passages share the same idea. However, passages in the Old Testament attest to the same idea, but they do not condemn wealth altogether. Furthermore, 1 Timothy might be pseudographical.

Example 26:

Luke 20:17 But he looked at them and said, "What then is this that is written: 'The very stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner'?

Ephesians 2:20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.

1 Peter 2:7 7Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, "The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone”

Only in the New Testament is Jesus the “cornerstone” from Psalms 118:22. However, due to an apparent alteration in parts of Paul’s theology in Ephesians, and doubts of 1 Peter’s authenticity, it is possible that the Epistles presented here are pseudographical.

Example 27:

Luke 20:25 He said to them, "Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."

This famous line sums up ideas from Paul and Peter nicely: Romans 13:7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honour, then honour.

1 Peter 2:15-17 For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. 16 Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. 17 Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honour the king.

Peter’s especially sums up the meaning behind Matthew 22:21. Furthermore, the sentence structure found in Romans 13:7 is reminiscent of Matthew 22:21.

Example 28:

Luke 20:35-36 but those who are accounted worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage, 20.36 for they cannot die any more, because they are equal to angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection.

1 Corinthians 15:35-50 35But someone may ask, "How are the dead raised? With what kind of body will they come?" 36How foolish! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. 37When you sow, you do not plant the body that will be, but just a seed, perhaps of wheat or of something else. 38But God gives it a body as he has determined, and to each kind of seed he gives its own body. 39All flesh is not the same: Men have one kind of flesh, animals have another, birds another and fish another. 40There are also heavenly bodies and there are earthly bodies; but the splendor of the heavenly bodies is one kind, and the splendor of the earthly bodies is another. 41The sun has one kind of splendor, the moon another and the stars another; and star differs from star in splendor.

42So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; 43it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; 44it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.
     If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. 45So it is written: "The first man Adam became a living being"[a]; the last Adam, a life-giving spirit. 46The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual. 47The first man was of the dust of the earth, the second man from heaven. 48As was the earthly man, so are those who are of the earth; and as is the man from heaven, so also are those who are of heaven. 49And just as we have borne the likeness of the earthly man, so shall we[b] bear the likeness of the man from heaven. 
50I declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable.

Both passages confirm that the resurrection is not physical, but spiritual.

Example 29:

Luke 21:24 they will fall by the edge of the sword, and be led captive among all nations; and Jerusalem will be trodden down by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.

Romans 11:15 For if their rejection is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?

Paul appears to be paraphrasing what Luke purports what Jesus said.

Example 30:

Luke 21:34-36 " But take heed to yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a snare; 21.35 for it will come upon all who dwell upon the face of the whole earth. 21.36 But watch at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of man."

1 Thessalonians 5:6-11 6So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled. 7For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. 8But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. 9For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. 10He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 11Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

The parallel here is the warning for Christians to be alert and avoid dissipation, which would take away the alertness. Also see Romans 13:11-14.

Example 31:

Luke 22:19-20 And he took bread, and when he had given thanks he broke it and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me." 22.20 And likewise the cup after supper, saying, "This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.

1 Corinthians 11:23-26 23 For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, "This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me." 25 In the same way also the cup, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me." 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.

The same exact ceremony is quoted here, though it does have early connections with Mithraism.

Example 32:

Luke 22:28-30 You are those who have continued with me in my trials; 22.29 and I assign to you, as my Father assigned to me, a kingdom, 22.30 that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

1 Corinthians 6:1-2 1 If any of you has a dispute with another, dare he take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the saints? 2 Do you not know that the saints will judge the world?

While Paul often talks about God or Jesus judging, here he adds the idea of “saints” judging. This idea is much alike that of the disciples judging found in Luke. However, Paul might be referring to the men and women of the Old Testament.

Example 33:

Luke 22:37-38 For I tell you that this scripture must be fulfilled in me, 'And he was reckoned with transgressors'; for what is written about me has its fulfilment." 22.38 And they said, "Look, Lord, here are two swords." And he said to them, "It is enough."

Romans 13:12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Ephesians 6:11-13 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

The marked difference in the Epistles is that one is urged to arm oneself with defensive armor (the Gospel), while in Luke, Jesus says the same, but refers to an offensive weapon.

Example 34:

Luke 22:69 But from now on the Son of man shall be seated at the right hand of the power of God."

The idea of the right hand is found all over Paul’s writings. The following are two examples of Paul’s idea of the right hand directly paralleling that found in Luke: Romans 8:34 who [is] he that is condemning? Christ [is] He that died, yea, rather also, was raised up; who is also on the right hand of God -- who also doth intercede for us.

Colossians 3:1 1If, then, ye were raised with the Christ, the things above seek ye, where the Christ is, on the right hand of God seated,

In the Old Testament, the “right hand” exclusively refers to God’s ability to act through humans or assist humans. For a list of every time this term has been used in the Bible, see the following link (http://www.biblegateway.com/keyword/?search="right%20hand"&version1=31&searchtype=all). The idea of being on or helped by God’s right hand is all over the Old Testament. However, the idea of having a particular individual, that being Jesus himself, on God’s right hand is mentioned several times by both Paul and Peter. Because of this, the passage in Matthew derives itself from origins at least as early as the Epistles.

Example 35:

Luke 23:45 while the sun's light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two.

Hebrews 10:19-20 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body,

The parallel here deals with the curtain. It covered the entrance of the “Most Holy Place” inside the Temple, and with it torn, everyone was given access to God through Jesus’ death. Hebrews is often attributed to the Apostle Paul, but he no where signs it. However, this letter was quoted by Clement in 95 C.E. Therefore, it is likely that it was written decades earlier.

Excample 36:

Luke 19:20-22 "Then another servant came and said, 'Sir, here is your mina; I have kept it laid away in a piece of cloth. 21I was afraid of you, because you are a hard man. You take out what you did not put in and reap what you did not sow.'"

22"His master replied, 'I will judge you by your own words, you wicked servant! You knew, did you, that I am a hard man, taking out what I did not put in, and reaping what I did not sow?"

Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.

This is a perfect parallel.

Parallels Found in John

John is the least like the other Gospels, but is probably from a tradition starting with or attributed to the Apostle John (See John 21:24.) Furthermore, there are strong connections between the Gospel of John and the first letter of John. However, it is unknown if the first letter of John is pseudographical or not, and whether it came before of after the Gospel of John. Nonetheless, if the Epistles that the Gospel of John has strong connections with are not pseudographical, it does indeed show that John was based upon an earlier source, possibly John himself.

Example 1:

John 3:5 Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”

1 Corinthians 12:13 F or we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.

The parallel here is that the baptism of water is theologically associated with the Holy Spirit and birth.

Example 2:

John 3:29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice; therefore this joy of mine is now full.

2 Corinthians 11:2 I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to him.

In the Old Testament, the people of Israel were brides of God. The parallel here is that Christians are brides of Jesus.

Example 3:

John 5:24-25 Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears my word and believes him who sent me, has eternal life; he does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life. 5.25 "Truly, truly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.

Ephesians 2:5-8 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 1 John 3:4 We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers. Anyone who does not love remains in death.

The parallel here is that those who hear and follow the Gospel have eternal life during their mortal life—a different concept than gaining life after literal death. However, it is possible that both Ephesians and the first letter of John are pseudographical.

Example 4:

John 5:28-29 an hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs shall hear His voice, and shall come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment

Romans 2:6 6who [God] shall render to each according to his works; 2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due to him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.

The same idea is found in both passages, but the language is much different.

Example 5:

John 5:36-37 But the testimony which I have is greater than that of John; for the works which the Father has granted me to accomplish, these very works which I am doing, bear me witness that the Father has sent me. And the Father who sent me has himself borne witness to me. His voice you have never heard, his form you have never seen;

1 John 5:9 We accept man's testimony, but God's testimony is greater because it is the testimony of God, which he has given about his Son.

The parallel here is that it is said that God testifies for Jesus’ importance over that of the testimony of a “mere” mortal such as John the Baptist.

The same idea is also seen here:

John 8:18 I bear witness to myself, and the Father who sent me bears witness to me

1 John 5:10 Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son.

The parallel here is that God testifies on Jesus’ behalf.

Example 6:

John 6:46-48 Not that any one has seen the Father except him who is from God; he has seen the Father. Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life. 6.48 I am the bread of life.

1 John 4:12-13 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. 13We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.

The parallel here is the idea that no one has seen God (though Moses, Adam, and other Biblical figures supposedly had done this) and that one can get new life through Jesus.

Example 7:

John 8:12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

1 John 1:5-7 This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.

The parallel here is that Jesus (or his teachings) is light, he’s a guiding force for one towards God.

Example 8:

John 8:12 Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, every one who commits sin is a slave to sin.

Romans 6:16 Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone to obey him as slaves, you are slaves to the one whom you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness?

2 Peter 2:19 They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity—for a man is a slave to whatever has mastered him.

Those who sin are slaves to it, an idea first recorded by Paul, because 2 Peter is likely pseudographical.

Example 9:

John 9:31 We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if any one is a worshiper of God and does his will, God listens to him.

1 John 4:12-13 Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God 22and receive from him anything we ask, because we obey his commands and do what pleases him.

See also John 14:13-14. The idea is identical, but it probably originates from Proverbs 15:29: The LORD is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous.

Example 10:

John 12:36 While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light." When Jesus had said this, he departed and hid himself from them.

Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 1 Thessalonians 5:5 5You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.

The parallel is the use of the term “sons of light” for Christians.

Example 11:

John 15:13 Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

1 John 3:16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.

The idea of love equaling sacrificing oneself for her/his friends is found no where else in the Bible.

Example 12:

John 17:5 and now, Father, glorify thou me in thy own presence with the glory which I had with thee before the world was made.

Colossians 1:15-16 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him

1 Peter 1:20 He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake.

The claim that Jesus existed before creation is substantiated in the Epistles, though 1 Peter might be pseudographical.

Parallels Found Strictly in "Q"

Even though it can never be known whether the material found not in Luke, but in Matthew or visa versa was from Q or yet other sources we do not know of, it is known that the material they do share probably is. The following is a listing of such passages found both in Matthew and Luke that parallel with the Epistles. Perhaps, this material is the earliest and thus most accurate recordings of Jesus' sayings.

Example 1:

Matthew 10:9-10 Take no gold, nor silver, nor copper in your belts, 10.10 no bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor a staff; for the laborer deserves his food. Luke 10:3-7 Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. 10.4 Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and salute no one on the road. 10.5 Whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace be to this house!' 10.6 And if a son of peace is there, your peace shall rest upon him; but if not, it shall return to you. 10.7 And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages; do not go from house to house.

1 Corinthians 9:13-14 13 Do you not know that those who are employed in the temple service get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in the sacrificial offerings? 14 In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.

This is the same message that Paul says Jesus himself had spoken.

Example 2:

Matthew 6:19-20 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, 6.20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. Luke 12:33 Sell your possessions, and give alms; provide yourselves with purses that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.

2 Corinthians 4:6-10 For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,"[a]made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.

Here, the word “treasure” is being used in the same context, but the theology is more precise and specific. People store up treasure by having faith in Jesus. HThere are two more Epistles quotes that mirror Jesus’ words more closely:

1 Timothy 6:17-19 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

This has the same idea as the Q quote. James gets it even closer in James 5:1-3: Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming upon you. 2 Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days.

The mentioning of both rust (corrosion) and moths makes this parallel likely not a coincidence in theology or language. However, some scholars consider 1 Timothy and James to be pseudographical.

Example 3

Matthew 15:14 Let them alone; they are blind guides. And if a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit." Luke 6:39 He also told them a parable: "Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit?

Romans 2:19-21 if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, 20an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of infants, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— 21you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal?

The above parallel each other in language and theology. Paul was using the analogy to condemn those who taught Christians to follow Jewish law, when they without a doubt break the law. Matthew uses the Q quote to justify Jesus’ opposition to strict adherence to the law, while in Luke, Jesus urges his disciples to accept his religious guidance and not judge others. The Gospel of Thomas leaves the parable unexplained.

Example 4

Matthew 7:21 Not every one who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven Luke 6:46 Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and not do what I tell you?

James 2:14 14What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?

The theology of the above is identical. However, some scholars believe James is pseudographical.

Example 5:

Matthew 7:20 Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. Luke 6:47-48 Every one who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: 6.48 he is like a man building a house, who dug deep, and laid the foundation upon rock; and when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house, and could not shake it, because it had been well built

James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

1 Corinthians 13:10-15 10By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds. 11For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, 13his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. 14If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. 15If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames.

Hebrews 6:1 Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God,

An identical idea is being expressed in the above passages. One is told to listen to Jesus' words and practice them, because only this would give foundation to one’s faith. However, some scholars believe James is pseudographical. Nonetheless, Corinthians (definitely written by [[the Apostle Paul) and Hebrews (which is possibly also written by Paul), get even more specific and mention the word “foundation” in the same context.

Example 6:

Matthew 5:39 But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. Luke 6:29 To him who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from him who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt.

1 Peter 3:9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.

If one reads past Matthew 5:39, it pretty much makes the same theological point as 1 Peter 3:9. Some scholars consider believe 1 Peter is pseudographical.

However, Lamentations 3:30 is probably the bona fida origin of this saying in the Jewish tradition: Let him offer his cheek to one who would strike him, and let him be filled with disgrace.

Example 7:

Matthew 7:1-2 Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way as you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Luke 6:37 Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven

Romans 2:1 You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.

James 4:11-12 Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. 12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you— who are you to judge your neighbour?

One can observe that there are parallels in theology and language in the above sources. James might be pseudographical, but Romans, as are many of Paul’s letters’ authenticity, are uncontested.

Example 8:

Matthew 7:18 A sound tree cannot bear evil fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Luke 6:43-44 For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit; 6.44 for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush.

James 3:12 My brothers, can a fig-tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

There appears to be an identical idea purported by both of the above, but with a slight difference in delivery. However, James might be pseudographical.

Example 9:

Matthew 19:28 Jesus said to them, I tell you the truth, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Luke 22:28-30 You are those who have continued with me in my trials; 22.29 and I assign to you, as my Father assigned to me, a kingdom, 22.30 that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

1 Corinthians 6:1-2 1 If any of you has a dispute with another, dare he take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the saints? 2 Do you not know that the saints will judge the world?

While Paul often talks about God or Jesus judging, here he adds the idea of “saints” judging. This idea is much alike that of the disciples judging found in Luke. However, Paul might be referring to the men and women of the Old Testament.

Example 10:

Matthew 43-44 But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. Luke 12:39-40 But know this, that if the householder had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have left his house to be broken into. 12.40 You also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an unexpected hour."

1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, Peace and safety, destruction will come on them suddenly, as labour pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 2 Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.

As we see above, the parallel is quire clear, because both passages speak of thievery in the same context. Furthermore, Peter appears to be referencing the same saying attributed to Jesus. However, many scholars believe 2 Peter is pseudographical.

Example 11:

Matthew 8:5-13 As he entered Caper'na-um, a centurion came forward to him, beseeching him 8.6 and saying, "Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, in terrible distress." 8.7 And he said to him, "I will come and heal him." 8.8 But the centurion answered him, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8.9 For I am a man under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes, and to another, 'Come,' and he comes, and to my slave, 'Do this,' and he does it." 8.10 When Jesus heard him, he marveled, and said to those who followed him, "Truly, I say to you, not even in Israel have I found such faith. 8.11 I tell you, many will come from east and west and sit at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, 8.12 while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth." 8.13 And to the centurion Jesus said, "Go; be it done for you as you have believed." And the servant was healed at that very moment. Luke 7:1-10 After he had ended all his sayings in the hearing of the people he entered Caper'na-um. 7.2 Now a centurion had a slave who was dear to him, who was sick and at the point of death. 7.3 When he heard of Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his slave. 7.4 And when they came to Jesus, they besought him earnestly, saying, "He is worthy to have you do this for him, 7.5 for he loves our nation, and he built us our synagogue." 7.6 And Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying to him, "Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; 7.7 therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed. 7.8 For I am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes; and to another, 'Come,' and he comes; and to my slave, 'Do this,' and he does it." 7.9 When Jesus heard this he marveled at him, and turned and said to the multitude that followed him, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith." 7.10 And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the slave well.

Romans 9:30-31 What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; 31but Israel, who pursued a law of righteousness, has not attained it.

The parallel here is that the gentiles have more faith inn accordance with Jesus’ Way than the Israelites.

Example 12:

Matthew 11:25 At that time Jesus declared, "I thank thee, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; Luke 10:21 In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, "I thank thee, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; yea, Father, for such was thy gracious will

1 Corinthians 1:26-30 Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29so that no one may boast before him. 30It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 1 Corinthians 3:1 Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly—mere infants in Christ

The parallels here are that Christians are referred to as babies and are given great amounts of understanding when compared to those high and wise by “human standards.”

Parallels In The Gospel of Thomas

The dating of the Gospel of Thomas cannot be known. Some scholars speculate it is a Gnostic work of the second century, while others believe it might be the earliest of the Gospels. The Gospel of Thomas lacks Gnostic terminology, has strong parallels to the Epistles, and even contains a quote attributed to Jesus from an authentic Pauline Epistle found in no other Gospel. Furthermore, its structure lacks any resemblance to the other Gospels, thus the probability that the Gospel of Thomas was made independently from the other Gospels is quite possible. For these reasons, one can assume that the Gospel of Thomas, or some earlier form of it, was a mid first century Gospel.

Example 1:

Gospel of Thomas 5 Jesus said: "Recognize what is before your face and that which is hidden from the you will be revealed to you. For there is nothing hidden which shall not be made manifest, nor buried which shall not be raised."

1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.

Paul’s quote seems to be a paraphrase of the Gospel quote.

Example 2:

Gospel of Thomas 14 When you go into any land and walk about in the districts, if they receive you, eat what they will set before you, and heal the sick among them.

The parallel is more apparent when the context is clearer: Luke 10:3-7 Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. 10.4 Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and salute no one on the road. 10.5 Whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace be to this house!' 10.6 And if a son of peace is there, your peace shall rest upon him; but if not, it shall return to you. 10.7 And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages; do not go from house to house.

1 Corinthians 9:13-14 13 Do you not know that those who are employed in the temple service get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in the sacrificial offerings? 14 In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.

The message here is a Q message, also found in Matthew 10:19-20 and has the same message that Paul says Jesus himself had spoken.

Example 2:

Gospel of Thomas 14 For what goes into your mouth will not defile you, but that which issues from your mouth - it is that which will defile you.

Romans 14:14 I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself; but it is unclean for any one who thinks it unclean.

The sentence structure and theology in these two passages is a striking parallel.

Example 3:

Gospel of Thomas 17 Jesus said, "I shall give you what no eye has seen and what no ear has heard and what no hand has touched and what has never occurred to the human mind."

1 Corinthians 2:8 But, as it is written, "What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him,"

There is no passage in the Bible that parallels what Paul says was written, besides the Gospel of Thomas quote and possibly Isaiah 64:4. It is likely that the Thomas quote existed in written form during Paul’s time, because he attributes the quote to the “Holy Spirit,” an idea that arose after Jesus. The fact that Paul says that this quote was written, and that the Thomas quote shares 3 parallels (1. God giving what no eye has seen, 2. God giving what no ear has heard, and 3. God giving something inconceivable to the mind) while the Isaiah 64:4 only shares two increases the probability that the Gospel of Thomas existed in some form as an early source.

Example 4:

Gospel of Thomas 21 Therefore I say to you, if the owner of a house knows that the thief is coming, he will begin his vigil before he comes and will not let him into his house of his domain to carry away his goods. You, then, be on your guard against the world.

1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, Peace and safety, destruction will come on them suddenly, as labour pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 2 Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.

As we see above, the parallel is quire clear, because both passages speak of thievery in the same context. Furthermore, Peter appears to be referencing the same saying attributed to Jesus. However, many scholars believe 2 Peter is pseudographical.

Example :

Gospel of Thomas 21 Arm yourselves with great strength lest the robbers find a way to come to you, for the difficulty which you expect will (surely) materialize.

Romans 13:12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Ephesians 6:11-13 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

The marked difference in the Epistles is that one is urged to arm oneself with defensive armor (the Gospel), while in Thomas, Jesus says the same, but refers to an offensive weapon.

Example 5:

Gospel of Thomas 22 Jesus saw infants being suckled. He said to His disciples, "These infants being suckled are like those who enter the Kingdom."

There are two close to identical quotes from James and Peter that refer to the importance of being humble: 1 Peter 5:5-6 Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility towards one another, because, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. 6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.

James 4:6, 10 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble....Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

Due to the fact that Peter and James use identical language, particularly the use of "lift you up," it is likely they are referencing an earlier source. Furthermore, the fact that Peter speaks of "young men" appears to show a connection between the importance of being humble in both Thomas and Peter. However, both sources might be pseudographical.

Example 6:

Gospel of Thomas 33 Jesus said, "What you will hear in your ear, in the other ear proclaim from your rooftops. After all, no one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, nor does one put it in a hidden place. Rather, one puts it on a lampstand so that all who come and go will see its light."

2 Peter 1:19-21 And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

The message is that what was hidden is revealed by the prophets’ foreknowledge of Jesus. Then again, this passage might be referring to Numbers 24:17 and not to the Gospel of Thomas at all. Furthermore, 2 Peter is likely pseudographical.

Example 7:

Gospel of Thomas 34 Jesus said, "If a blind man leads a blind man, they will both fall into a pit."

Romans 2:19-21 if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, 20an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of infants, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— 21you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal?

The above parallel each other in language and theology. Paul was using the analogy to condemn those who taught Christians to follow Jewish law, when they without a doubt break the law. Matthew uses the Q quote to justify Jesus’ opposition to strict adherence to the law, while in Luke, Jesus urges his disciples to accept his religious guidance and not judge others. The Gospel of Thomas leaves the parable unexplained.

Example 8:

Gospel of Thomas 45 Jesus said, "Grapes are not harvested from thorns, nor are figs gathered from thistles, for they do not produce fruit. A good man brings forth good from his storehouse; an evil man brings forth evil things from his evil storehouse, which is in his heart, and says evil things. For out of the abundance of the heart he brings forth evil things."

James 3:12 My brothers, can a fig-tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

There appears to be an identical idea purported by both of the above, but with a slight difference in delivery. However, James might be pseudographical.

Example 9:

Gospel of Thomas 48 Jesus said, "If two make peace with each other in this one house, they will say to the mountain, 'Move Away,' and it will move away." Gospel of Thomas 106 Jesus said, "When you make the two one, you will become the sons of man, and when you say, 'Mountain, move away,' it will move away."

1 Corinthians 13:2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

Both passages have the exact same idea: faith can move mountains, thus accomplish great things.

Example :

Gospel of Thomas 49 Jesus said, "Blessed are the solitary and elect, for you will find the Kingdom. For you are from it, and to it you will return." Gospel of Thomas 50 ….“If they say to you, 'Is it you?', say, 'We are its children, we are the elect of the Living Father.' If they ask you, 'What is the sign of your father in you?', say to them, 'It is movement and repose.'"

Romans 8:33 33Who shall lay a charge against the choice ones of God? God [is] He that is declaring righteous,

Col 3:12 Put on, therefore, as choice ones of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humble-mindedness, meekness, long-suffering,

Paul purports that there is an “elect” or “chosen” among the people who are lucky to have God’s grace. This idea, if it was only Paul’s, some how found its way in Q, or Matthew made a lucky guess of a profound theological idea that is the basis of Christianity.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites as a whole are the only ones ever called the “chosen ones” (see http://www.biblegateway.com/keyword/?search=%22chosen+ones%22&searchtype=all&version1=15&spanbegin=1&spanend=73), but Thomas talks of the chosen ones as an elect of God’s grace. This is specifically a New Testament idea and so whatever Paul is referring to is apparently the same as what Thomas is originally referring to—the historical Jesus.

Example :

Gospel of Thomas 50 Jesus said, "If they say to you, 'Where did you come from?', say to them, 'We came from the light, the place where the light came into being on its own accord and established [itself] and became manifest through their image.' If they say to you, 'Is it you?', say, 'We are its [the light’s] children…"

Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 1 Thessalonians 5:5 5You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.

The parallel is the use of the term “children of light” for Christians.

Example 10:

Gospel of Thomas 62 Jesus said, "It is to those [who are worthy of My] mysteries that I tell My mysteries.

1 Corinthians 2:1 And I, having come unto you, brethren, came -- not in superiority of discourse or wisdom -- declaring to you the testimony [(some ancient authorities say “mystery”]) of God…

If the correct ancient sources said “mystery,” then this is a striking parallel, because no where in the old testament is there a mention of the “mystery of God.”

Example 11:

Gospel of Thomas 66 Jesus said, "Show me the stone which the builders have rejected. That one is the cornerstone."

Ephesians 2:20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.

1 Peter 2:7 7Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, "The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone”

Only in the New Testament is Jesus the “cornerstone” from Psalms 118:22. However, due to an apparent alteration in parts of Paul’s theology in Ephesians, and doubts of 1 Peter’s authenticity, it is possible that the Epistles presented here are pseudographical.

Example 12:

Gospel of Thomas 76 You too, seek his unfailing and enduring treasure where no moth comes near to devour and no worm destroys.

2 Corinthians 4:6-10 For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,"[a]made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.

Here, the word “treasure” is being used in the same context, but the theology is more precise and specific. People store up treasure by having faith in Jesus. HThere are two more Epistles quotes that mirror Jesus’ words more closely:

1 Timothy 6:17-19 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

This has the same idea as the Thomas quote, which also mentions the “treasure [in heaven].” James gets it even closer in James 5:1-3: Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming upon you. 2 Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days.

The mentioning of both rust (corrosion) and moths makes this parallel likely not a coincidence in theology or language. However, some scholars consider 1 Timothy and James to be pseudographical.

Example 13:

Gospel of Thomas 100 They showed Jesus a gold coin and said to Him, "Caesar's men demand taxes from us." He said to them, "Give Caesar what belongs to Caesar, give God what belongs to God, and give Me what is Mine."

This famous line sums up ideas from Paul and Peter nicely: Romans 13:7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honour, then honour.

1 Peter 2:15-17 For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. 16 Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. 17 Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honour the king.

Peter’s especially sums up the meaning behind Matthew 22:21. Furthermore, the sentence structure found in Romans 13:7 is reminiscent of Matthew 22:21.

Sources

• Society of Biblical Literature. The Harper Collins Study Bible. New York, HarperCollins Publishers, 1993.
• http://www.utoronto.ca/religion/synopsis/meta-6gv.htm
• http://www.biblegateway.com
• http://www.gospelthomas.com
• http://www.searchgodsword.org/