The Function of LXX Habakkuk 1:5 in the Book of Acts

This case study of Scripture's intertextuality follows the route of LXX Hab 1:5 through the Acts of the Apostles, from Paul's citation of it in climaxing his inaugural (and programmatic) sermon (Acts 13:41), to its intra-/intertextual echo in Acts 15:3. Its function in Acts 13:41 underscores the redemptive importance of Paul's "report" of God's "work" among the Gentiles: to dispute the prophet's "report" (ἐκδιηγέομαι) is to reject God's bid to save God's people. When Paul's travel "report" (ἐκδιηγέομαι, 15:3) of his Gentile mission is again disputed by Jewish believers in Antioch (15:1) and Jerusalem (15:5), their eternal life is threatened according to biblical prophecy.