New Testament Use of the Septuagint – Matthew 3:1-3

Here is New Testament passage that shows that the Septuagint was the version of the Scriptures used by the early church and the Holy Spirit. The Septuagint version I am using is the Lexham English Septuagint 2nd Edition, which is available in print or as part of Logos Bible Software. Occasionally I also use the Brenton translation of the LXX for insight into difficult passages.

If you want to know more, click on the following links.

NT Quote
LXX
MT
Comment

1 In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the LORD; Make His paths straight.’ ” Matthew 3:1–3 (NKJV) 

3 The voice of one calling in the desert, “Prepare the way of the Lord! Make the paths of our God straight!” Isaiah 40:3 (LES2) 

3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the LORD; Make straight in the desert A highway for our God. Isaiah 40:3 (NKJV) 

Matthew’s quote exactly matches the LXX. He connects Isaiah’s prophecy to John the Baptist, as did John himself. (John 1:23)

This one goes to the Septuagint.

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petebeck3

Pete Beck III ministered as a pastor and Bible teacher in Burlington for over 35 years. He is married to Martha, with whom he has four children, ten beautiful grandchildren, and five amazing great grandchildren. He has written several books, including two that are available on Amazon - Seeing God's Smile and Promise of the Father - as well as a wide variety of Bible-related articles.

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