Profiles

Publication details for Prof Francis Watson

Watson, Francis B. (2009). Q as Hypothesis: A Study in Methodology. New Testament Studies 55(04): 397-415

• Publication type: Journal papers: academic
• ISSN/ISBN: 0028-6885, 1469-8145
• DOI: 10.1017/S0028688509990026
• Keywords: Q, Synoptic problem, Source criticism, Two source hypothesis.
• View online: Online version
• Durham research online: DRO record

Author(s) from Durham

• Prof Francis Watson

Abstract

Arguments for the Q hypothesis have changed little since B. H. Streeter. The purpose of this article is not to advocate an alternative hypothesis but to argue that, if the Q hypothesis is to be sustained, the unlikelihood of Luke's dependence on Matthew must be demonstrated by a systematic and comprehensive reconstruction of the redactional procedures entailed in the two hypotheses. The Q hypothesis will have been verified if (and only if) it generates a more plausible account of the Matthean and Lukan redaction of Mark and Q than the corresponding account of Luke's use of Mark and Matthew.