Contours of Pauline Theology: A Radical New Survey of the Influences on Paul's Biblical Writings
Overview
The Apostle Paul is a controversial church figure. Many theologians accuse Paul of starting a new religion—of hi-jacking early Christianity in a different direction. Is this a fair charge? Tom Holland points us to a neglected fact, that the Jews in the first century A.D. would view concepts of salvation through the exodus of Israel from Egypt to the promised land. Until now, a real elephant in the center of the hermeneutical room. Such a viewpoint opens up new understanding on Pauline studies—it is true of this book that it will change your view of the New Testament and deserves to radically alter New Testament studies in Universities, Theological Colleges, and Seminaries around the world.
- Includes bibliography and indexes
- All Scripture references linked to original language texts and English translations
Top Highlights
“in the whole of the New Testament evidence. New Testament Christology is clearly basically functional” (Page 269)
“his doctrine of justification is about the restoration of the relationship that has been forfeited” (Page 226)
“Moses is on his way to Egypt. He is apparently acting in obedience to a call that few others would even contemplate; yet he falls foul of Yahweh’s anger. Why?” (Page 243)
“A corporate perspective makes better sense of the ongoing argument that Paul is advancing in his letter to the Romans” (Page 95)
“the policy of killing the male babies was a deliberate one that endangered Israel’s very existence.” (Page 243)
In constant critical engagement... Holland maps out new ways of understanding Paul and offers new insights into a range of absolutely vital issues from justification to Christology, and new insights into Pauline texts from Romans to Colossians. Challenging, unsettling and infuriating Dr. Holland's tour de force cannot be ignored.
—Dr. Peter Head, Cambridge University
It is refreshing to read something radically new in such a popular area as Pauline studies. This book should provide a timely and fruitful alternative to some of the theological emphases that have guided the church for too long.
—Dr. William S. Campbell, University of Wales, Lampeter
Holland's book will greatly help us to a better understanding of Paul and will hopefully trigger much fruitful scholarly debate.
—Dr. Christian Stettler, Cambridge University
- Title: Contours of Pauline Theology: A Radical New Survey of the Influences on Paul's Biblical Writings
- Author: Tom Holland
- Publisher: Christian Focus Publications
- Publication Date: 2004
- Pages: 392
Tom Holland is professor of New Testament and Hermeneutics at the Wales Evangelical School of Theology.
