Theological Issues in the Letters of Paul

In recent years a revitalization of interest in Paul has occurred. The Society of Biblical Literature recently ended the work of a group devoted to the study of Paul's theology. We are now seeing the publication of a number of books from various points of view that are examining the life, thought, and influence of the apostle Paul. Despite this recent attention to Paul's thought, J. Louis Martyn believes that insufficient attention has been paid to the discovery of numerous and pervasive apocalyptic themes in Paul's letters. Further, says Martyn, Paul is still being studied somewhat in isolation, almost as though he had had neither comrades nor competitors. One of the results is that Paul is sometimes credited with views he did not hold--views which were, in fact, held by his opponents. In Theological Issues in the Letters of Paul we find the results of a lifetime of study of Paul's letters by a well-known and widely respected New Testament scholar. "This volume presents highly significant Pauline insights by one of the most perceptive and innovative New Testament scholars of our time."--Raymond E. Brown, Union Theological Seminary, New York "No American in our generation has done as much to map the terrain of Pauline theology as has J. Louis Martyn. Cogent in crafting an argument, faithful in interpreting a text, and lucid in simple prose, Martyn here offers a compelling depiction of Paul as an apocalyptic theologian. It is a boon to teachers, students, and pastors to have the fruits of Martyn's lifelong engagement with Paul made available in this volume."--Charles B. Cousar, Columbia Theological Seminary "With unusual perspicacity and insight [Martyn] sheds new light on the matters that most distinguish Paul's gospel, including his understanding of the covenant, the cross, and the new creation."--Victor Paul Furnish, Perkins School of Theology, SMU