Ask Pastor John Why Do Citations in the Bible Seem Sloppy?
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Sep 1, 2025 Dive into how biblical writers quote previous scriptures with surprising casualness. Explore Hebrews' unique citation style, which reflects a deep trust in the interconnectedness of biblical texts. Learn about the historical context that shapes these references and how they advocate for daily Bible engagement. Get practical tips for studying Scripture while overcoming common obstacles.
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Chapter/Verse Divisions Are Recent
- Chapter and verse divisions are late medieval additions, so early readers quoted Scripture loosely without precise references.
- John Piper argues this historical fact explains casual citation styles in the New Testament.
Don't Equate Loose Citation With Unreliability
- Don't assume loose citations undermine biblical credibility; historical citation practices differ from modern expectations.
- Piper advises readers to recognize cultural and textual contexts when judging citation precision.
Psalms Had Numbers But Were Quoted Loosely
- The Psalms were gathered and numbered early, yet New Testament writers still sometimes cite them without numbers.
- Piper notes Paul names Psalm 2 but then quotes another psalm as 'another psalm,' showing flexible citation practice.
