Peter Calls Jesus Yahweh!

Anyone familiar with the Greek translation of the Old Testament, the Septuagint (aka, the LXX), knows that the translators chose the Greek word κύριος (Lord) for the Hebrew Tetragrammaton, יהוה (YHWH). I give this short piece of background information simply to set up a very interesting observation about the New Testament use of the Old Testament.

It is frequently alleged by Watchtower Society members, as well as all other modern deniers of Christ’s deity that the New Testament makes no overt claims that Jesus is, in fact, God. It is further asserted, that when the New Testament calls Jesus “Lord,” it is not referring to deity but to His exalted position of authority. 

Here is where my point in mentioning how the LXX renders YHWH is comes into play in refuting this idiocy. And to drive home my meaning, I present this passage as Exhibit A. The Apostle Peter writes, “But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,” (1 Peter 3:14-15 ESV) 

In this passage, there is an Old Testament quotation. Peter is citing (and ALL scholars are agreed on this) Isaiah 8:12, 13, which reads: “Do not call conspiracy all that this people calls conspiracy, and do not fear what they fear, nor be in dread. But the LORD of hosts, him you shall honor as holy. Let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.” (Isaiah 8:12-13 ESV) 

The quote of Isaiah runs from 1 Peter 3:14b-15a and cites Isaiah 8:12b-13a. But notice of whom Peter understands the words “LORD of hosts.” Again, Peter is citing the LXX rendering of this passage, which renders (YHWH) LORD as κύριος. 

Who does Peter say this κύριος (aka YHWH, the LORD of hosts) is? “Christ the Lord.” That’s right, Arius, Peter calls Jesus YHWH. You heard me right, Charles T. Russell, Peter explicitly calls Jesus God.

Since the Jews of the 1^st century were familiar with the LXX’s rendering of κύριος for YHWH, I think we can safely assume, that all the New Testament references to Christ as “Lord” are overt statements of Christ’s Godhead.