This research paper by Ryan Richardson, submitted to Dr. Michael Kruger for NT508 – Gospels at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, investigates the contested verses Luke 22:43–44, where an angel strengthens Jesus in Gethsemane and His sweat becomes like drops of blood. Richardson evaluates external manuscript evidence, patristic testimony, and internal linguistic patterns to argue that the passage is original to Luke.
He analyzes manuscript traditions such as 𝔓75, ƒ13, and Codex D, concluding that while some Alexandrian witnesses omit the text, early citations by Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and Hippolytus support its authenticity. Through close analysis of Luke’s language and structure, Richardson demonstrates that the verses align with Lucan themes of divine compassion and human suffering, showing stylistic coherence with Luke–Acts. The paper further connects Jesus’ agony to Isaiah’s Servant Songs, framing His prayer as the perfect union of divine will and human weakness.
Richardson concludes that the disputed verses not only belong in Luke’s Gospel but also enrich the church’s understanding of Christ’s dual nature. In Gethsemane, Jesus embodies both divine faithfulness and human frailty—revealing the fullness of God’s redemptive plan and the depth of His identification with suffering humanity.
Course and semester: NT508 Gospels — Fall 2015