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The Reading Culture of Early Christianity

Introduction

In Matthew 5:47a, a subtle yet significant textual variant poses a question of relational dynamics in Jesus’ teachings. The variation between “friends” (φίλους) and “brothers” (ἀδελφούς) alongside the action “to greet” (ἀσπάσησθε) has implications for understanding the social and ethical expectations that Jesus sets for His followers. This analysis aims to investigate the manuscript evidence, the historical and cultural context, and the theological implications to discern the original wording used by Jesus in this passage.

Manuscript Evidence

The manuscript evidence presents a divided witness:

Substitution of “friends” for “brothers”:
- Support: Codex Bezae (D), Codex Washingtonianus (W), Codex Koridethi (Θ), and the Majority of later manuscripts (Maj), but notably not the Textus Receptus (TR).
- This variant aligns with the common use of “greet” in the context of daily exchanges among friends.
Original Reading with “brothers”:
- The absence of explicit early manuscript evidence for “brothers” as opposed to “friends” in this specific verse suggests a need for broader textual comparison and consideration of parallel passages.

Cultural and Linguistic Considerations

The Greek verb ἀσπάσησθε (“to greet”) indeed carries connotations of daily social interaction, commonly among friends. However, the broader context of Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount emphasizes radical inclusivity and love beyond societal norms. The use of “brothers” would be consistent with this theme, urging followers to extend their circle of care beyond conventional boundaries, such as familial or friendly ties.

Theological Implications

Choosing “brothers” over “friends” in this passage would underscore the revolutionary nature of Jesus’ ethical teachings. By advocating for a greeting extended to “brothers,” Jesus challenges His audience to redefine their understanding of community and kinship. This aligns with the broader message of the Kingdom of Heaven, where relational dynamics are transformed by divine love and grace.

Conclusion: The Original Reading

Given the absence of direct manuscript evidence favoring “brothers,” the key to resolving this variant lies in the synthesis of cultural, linguistic, and theological analysis. While “friends” is supported by a significant number of later manuscripts and aligns with the cultural use of “to greet,” the thematic consistency of Jesus’ teachings and the transformative ethic of the Sermon on the Mount lend weight to the argument that “brothers” better captures the intended message.

Therefore, it is posited that the original intent and likely wording of Matthew 5:47a encompassed “brothers,” emphasizing a radical inclusivity and redefined kinship in the Kingdom of Heaven. This reading challenges believers to extend grace and love universally, beyond the confines of conventional relationships, reflecting the heart of Jesus’ message.

The investigation into Matthew 5:47a not only illuminates the meticulous care required in textual criticism but also highlights the profound depth of Jesus’ teachings and their enduring relevance for shaping Christian ethics and community life.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is the CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored more than 220 books and is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).