I'm working from memory here, so excuse me if I'm mistaken... but

My understanding of the Q text is that there is no ACTUAL text... but Q represents the idea of some NOW LOST common text that the gospel writers may have drawn from.

The theory of Q is used to explain how the Gospels of Matthew and Mark have some sections that are almost word for word the same. If they both drew from a common sourse material (ie: Q) then they are both in effect quoting it.

Q isn't the only theory about the common works in the Gospels... but it is probably the most popular.

Cat.