FABRICATIONS · TEXTUAL VARIANTS
Omitted "Son of Man" Verse
For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.
This verse is absent from the earliest manuscripts, indicating it may have been added later to summarize Jesus' mission. Its presence in Bibles like the KJV but absence in the NIV highlights that not all verses are original. These inconsistencies challenge claims of the Gospel texts’ pristine preservation, supporting the view that human alterations have impacted the biblical record, thereby undermining its absolute trustworthiness.
THE CHRISTIAN RESPONSE
This verse summarizes Jesus' mission and aligns with Christian Doctrine, consistent with . Its absence in some manuscripts suggests scribes may have added it to harmonize the Gospels and emphasize Jesus’ mission of salvation without introducing new doctrine.
THE ISLAMIC POSITION
The inconsistency in manuscript evidence raises concerns about the text's reliability. If verses can be added or omitted, it undermines confidence in the Scripture's preservation. A truly original verse should appear in the earliest sources; its absence suggests human influence. The need to harmonize the Gospels highlights discrepancies and an original lack of alignment between the "witnesses," further casting doubt on the Bible’s authenticity and the reliability of doctrines shaped by later additions.
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Omitted "Son of Man" Verse