[roamer_1]

And this part boggles my mind. How can anyone think they didn't have the Gospels and the epistles within the first generation or two? They were apostolic work product. They HAD to exist during the apostolic era.

I studied on this a bit. There are protocols that need to be followed for an itinerant rabbi to preach in a synagogue. Submittable in writing, and what not, for approval... This was to permit the 'home team' time to formulate correction for 'right teaching' and debate. Probably somewhere in the Talmud, I bet...

This is one of the reasons I regard an original Hebrew Gospel to be almost critically necessary, and something like Hebrews too, as 'work product', as you say. Maybe some archaeologist will dig up some transparencies or a powerpoint presentation... some CDs out in the entrance... Then we'll know.

[Springfield Reformer]

Ping to 59.

As for rabbinic protocols, I am not aware that Polycarp was Jewish, and I have seen (unsourced) statements he was gentile. I have no reason to believe at this point that said rabbinic protocols were being observed, and so I don’t see why this should infer a Hebrew NT text. If you have good sources backing your view I will be glad to take a look.

Peace,

SR

[don-o]

I studied on this a bit. There are protocols that need to be followed for an itinerant rabbi to preach in a synagogue. Submittable in writing, and what not, for approval...

That is interesting. More, please on how this would relate to the early church, in light of Stephen's martyrdom after his address in the synagogue.