The knowledge of particular texts, which later formed the New Testament, can be presupposed for all Apostolic Fathers. All groups of textsorts, from the gospels to the Apocalypse, are represented. But there are substantial differences in the Apostolic Fathers: some contain explicit quotations of not less than one sentence or at least a longer syntagma; some contain (intentional) allusions and some only an (unintentional) reminiscence. At the time of the Apostolic Fathers, the New Testament was just in the state of coming into existence. The tradition of the gospels was in progress. Therefore, it is difficult - in most cases - to decide, whether there is a direct literary connection with a New Testament scripture, or with a collection of quotations or with an oral tradition. Wherever we come across redactional parts of a gospel, we can assume that the author was familiar with it. Occasionally, there are quotations formulas. Frequently common motifs can be recognized. Quotations from memory certainly play an important role. The particular situation is also relevant for the choice of a particular New Testament scripture or part of it. All in all, there is a remarkable number of quotations and allusions. The scriptures, which later became the New Testament, are broadly adapted. This gives us a good impression of the process of canonization during the 2nd century.

Enthalten in:
Theologische Literaturzeitung; 2012/2 Monatsschrift für das gesamte Gebiet der Theologie und Religionswissenschaft (2012)

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Serie / Reihe: Theologische Literaturzeitung

Personen: Pratscher, Wilhelm

Schlagwörter: Neues Testament Rezeption Kirchenväter