Would a Palestinian Jew like James quote the LXX (Greek OT)?
This has some importance, for it is observed that the Hebrew version of the verse the James quotes does not support his point like the LXX does, and so it is supposed that Luke is putting words in James’ mouth. However, this objection does little justice to the influence of Hellenism in Galilee. While not quite as influential as the “Cynic sage” model of Jesus would suggest, there is enough evidence to allow that James would be familiar with and use the LXX. Furthermore, it is arguable that the Hebrew version can indeed support the point made – Bruc.AA, 341. • What was the decree all about? Most commentators suppose that the decree was intended to bind the Gentiles only to the basic laws of Noah recorded in Genesis 9:4-6, or perhaps to Lev. 17-18 laws on sojourners [Jns.AA, 267]. However, a reading of the material in its social context reveals something different [With.AA, 461n]: • The part of the decree dealing with meat offered to idols is better understood when we realize that only
