Religion and Theology.

Religion and Theology



Religion and theology.

Paul Among Jews and Gentiles by Krister Stendahl

The book, “Paul among Jews and Gentiles” written by Krister Stendahl lists down the principles and core values that were practiced by Paul, as well as the traditional values that were challenged through his journey in the New Testament. The author proposes new ways of exploring Pauls speech in her key essay. Stendahl states that in his speech, Paul should be heard as one who does not challenge conversion, but rather talks of his calling. He speaks rather of forgiveness than justification for wrong doings, of weakness rather than sin, of love rather than integrity. In this unique way, the author is able to reach out to a universal audience and make himself easily understood. These topics have only been covered in the first part of the book, while further on the author dictates the analysis behind The Aposle Paul and the Introspective Conscience of the West. This relates the tales of Paul as he traveled through the lands, and compliments the earlier chapters in its way of continuity. The next two seminal explorations are called “Judgement and Mercy”, and Glossolalia - The New Testament Evidence. These chapters serve as deep and profound explorations of Pauline's issues, and several biblical examples are present for the reader to understand the issues and challenges that were abound with Paul. The book reaches a conclusion with Stendahl providing a rather pointed reply to the distinguished academic Ernst Kasemann who had previously spoken out against the revolutionary way in which Steindahl interprets previous works, and provides not just succinct justifications but examples to back his findings.

There is no doubt that through his book, Steindahl has provided for the readers a new perspective through which to view Paul. Readers have ...