Unbelievable? Classic: Virgin or “Young Woman”? Did Matthew Misquote Isaiah?
Jan 1, 2026
In this engaging discussion, Alistair McKittrick, a theological lecturer specializing in scripture interrelation, debates with Robert Stovold, an atheist skeptic and secular commentator. They delve into whether Matthew misquoted Isaiah regarding the virgin birth. Alistair argues for the intentional theological context of Matthew's use of Isaiah, while Robert challenges the historical authenticity of nativity stories, suggesting they may be later inventions. The conversation uncovers rich biblical interpretations, translation nuances, and parallels to contemporary myths, leaving listeners pondering the nature of prophecy.
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Septuagint Shaped Matthew’s Wording
- Matthew's use of Isaiah 7:14 rests on an older Greek (Septuagint) reading that renders the Hebrew as 'virgin'.
- That shows Matthew drew from an established interpretive tradition rather than inventing the wording himself.
Read Isaiah In Its Zion Context
- Isaiah 7's 'woman' appears linked to the literary context of Zion/Jerusalem, not just an isolated prediction.
- Reading Isaiah in context helps explain why later writers saw the passage as messianic and applicable to Jesus.
Immediate Political Promise, Later Fulfillment
- Isaiah's original prophecy addressed King Ahaz and promised deliverance within a short timeframe.
- That short-term political setting doesn't preclude later theological fulfillment or typological use by New Testament writers.