Overview

The Apocalyptic Paul is rapidly becoming one of the most influential contemporary approaches to the apostle's letters, and one which has generated its share of controversy. Critiques of the movement have come from all sides: Pauline specialists, scholars of Jewish and Christian apocalyptic literature, and systematic theologians have all raised critical questions. Meanwhile, many have found it a hard conversation to enter, not least because of the contested nature of its key terms and convictions. Non-specialists can find it difficult to sift through these arguments and to become familiar with the history of this movement, its most important contemporary voices, and its key claims. In the first part of this book, New Testament scholar Jamie Davies offers a retrospective introduction to the conversation, charting its development from the turn of the twentieth century to the present, surveying the contemporary situation. In the second part, Davies explores a more prospective account of the challenges and questions that are likely to energize discussion in the future, before offering some contributions to the apocalyptic reading of Paul through an interdisciplinary conversation between the fields of New Testament scholarship, Second Temple Jewish apocalypticism, and Christian systematic theology.

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9781532681936

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Reviews

Anyone perplexed by talk of the 'apocalyptic Paul' could do no better than to take up and read Davies' clear, engaging, and insightful account of this recent scholarship. This companion is a fine introduction for those keen to explore Paul's strange new world and its significance for today. --Philip G. Ziegler, University of Aberdeen In a field of scholarship littered with misunderstandings, Jamie Davies here offers a wonderfully clear, precise, and even-handed summary of the debate, displaying a deep understanding of both its exegetical and its theological dimensions. More than that, he skillfully signals how the conversation could progress in fruitful directions. Readers at all levels of knowledge will be immensely grateful for this fine book. --John M. G. Barclay, Durham University Davies deftly navigates the complex and growing array of proposals concerning the 'apocalyptic' Paul to clarify the history, semantics, and contextual commitments of the various approaches and to outline their principal contributions. His aim to inform the 'non-specialist' is admirably accomplished. But more, through his generous assessment of areas of agreement and disagreement, he encourages dialogue among Pauline specialists against the fragmentation of 'schools' that so often stymies genuine exchange. A timely and vital offering. --Alexandra R. Brown, Washington and Lee University As an expert guide, Davies takes readers on a walking tour through the avenues of contemporary scholarship on the apocalyptic Paul. Through his engaging summaries, you'll both capture the main themes under discussion and appreciate the fine points of detail. He not only provides historical description but critical engagement with ongoing conversations. This is a rare volume where both beginners and those more seasoned will each find benefit, and I recommend it highly. --Ben C. Blackwell, Houston Theological Seminary, Houston Baptist University

Author Information

Jamie Davies is Tutor of New Testament at Trinity College, Bristol (UK). He is the author of Paul Among the Apocalypses? (2016).

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