Who Said It First? Trivia Quiz

Answer: The Apostle Paul

Captain John Smith insisted that the early American settlers in Jamestown must work in order to be permitted to eat. The phrase, however, actually originated with the Apostle Paul. Early Christian communities practiced a pure form of communism, keeping all goods in common. But, unfortunately, this resulted in some people refusing to work. Paul therefore warned, "if any would not work, neither should he eat" (2 Thessalonians 3).

Answer: Jesus Christ

In his 1858 speech, Lincoln warned that slavery would tear the United States assunder: "A house divided against itself cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure permanently half slave and half free." However, Lincoln was only quoting Jesus Christ: "And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand" (Matthew 12:25).

Answer: The Apostle Paul

Though Alcott employs this phrase in "A Garland for Girls," she was only quoting the Bible, from Paul's epistle to the Ephesians: "Let not the sun go down upon your wrath." (4:26).

Answer: King David

Matthew 27:46 tells us that "About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"-which means, 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?'" Christ was there quoting a Psalm of David, number 22: "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from the words of my groaning?"

Answer: Alexander Pope

The 18th century poet Alexander Pope originated the phrase: "Nay, fly to altars, there they'll talk you dead, for fools rush in where angels fear to tread." Elvis quotes the poet in one of his most popular songs, "Can't Help Falling in Love," when he sings, "Wise men say, only fools rush in..."