Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 18:54 (Summer 2014)
Article: The Role Of The LXX In James’ Use Of Amos 9:11–12 In Acts 15:15–18
Author: Peter J. Goeman

JODT 18:54 (Summer 2014) p. 107

The Role Of The LXX In James’ Use Of Amos 9:11–12 In Acts 15:15–18

Peter J. Goeman

* Peter J. Goeman, Th.D. student, The Master’s Seminary, Sun Valley, California

Amos 9:11–12 is a significant passage in Old Testament Greek studies as well as theological studies in the New Testament. There are significant differences between the Hebrew of the Masoretic Text (MT) and the Old Greek (LXX)1 which are noteworthy. Is it possible that the LXX translation is based upon a different Vorlage? When James quoted Amos 9:11–12 in Acts 15:15–18, he appeared to quote the LXX rather than the MT. By doing so, did James affirm that the LXX in Amos 9:11–12 is the original reading, and thus superior to the MT? Conversely, if the MT is the original reading, why did James use the LXX rather than the MT?

The article herein will seek to answer these questions through an exegetical analysis of Amos 9:11–12 based upon a comparison of the LXX and MT. The examination will include a textual critical evaluation of the Greek readings compared with the MT. After having studied Amos 9:11–12 in context, this research will examine how James used Amos 9 in Acts 15.

The Structure Of Amos

The structure of Amos is rather straightforward. Although it is possible to go into further detail with the outline, for the purposes of this study the main structure of Amos will be sufficient. The development of the book focuses mainly upon judgment, both upon Israel’s enemies as well as upon Israel itself. The emphasis is reflected in the following outline.2

I. Oracles of Judgment (1:3–4:13)

A. Against the nations (1:3–2:3)

JODT 18:54 (Summer 2014) p. 108

B. Against Judah (2:4–5)

C. Against Israel (2:6–4:13)

II. Woes and Lamentations (5–6)

III. Visions of Judgment (7:1–9:10)

IV. ...