The Text of the New Testament: Its Transmission, Corruption, and Restoration

Contemporary Review, Summer, 2006

The Text of the New Testament: Its Transmission, Corruption, and Restoration. Bruce M. Metzger and Bart D. Ehrman. Oxford University Press. [pounds sterling]49.00. xvii 366 pages. ISBN 0-19-516667-1. This title, which originates with OUP New York, was first published in 1964 and last re-issued in 1992.

What we have here is a fourth edition that has brought the text up to date. The authors have taken cognisance of new manuscripts that have become available since 1964, new research and the 'contribution of computer technology in the collection and evaluation of manuscript evidence', something in its infancy in 1992. The bibliography has been brought up to date and there is new material on the 'making and copying of books ... and on the history of the transmission of the text of the New Testament'. Some matter from the 1992 edition, which has now become of 'peripheral interest to present-day readers' has been removed. Biblical references, which had been to the 1952 Revised Standard Version, are now to the New Revised Standard Version of 1990. The basic arrangement of the text remains the same as does the primary object: 'to supply the student with information concerning both the science and the art of textual criticism as applied to the New Testament'. A valuable guide and introduction has been brought up to date and made even more useful. (J.M.)