January 8, 2010
Book Review: Perspectives Old and New on Paul
If one is interested in knowing about the much touted "New Perspective on Paul", but has no time or resources to read the major works that have been published--pro and con--then Stephen Westerholm's work "Perspectives Old and New on Paul" (subtitled "The 'Lutheran' Paul and His Critics) is the only book you need to read.
Westerholm begins his monumental task (in all it takes over 400 pages) by reviewing the main lines of Augustinian/Lutheran thought. He then reviews the work of those who have tried to deconstruct those lines. Finally, he delves into what Paul actually says about law, grace, and membership in the community of the redeemed. Not surprisingly, the conclusions he draws are of a decidedly "Lutheran" tone. 
I can see myself returning to this book--especially the third section--as I prepare messages on any of the Pauline epistles.
Talk back to the missionary: Read any good books on Paul recently? Let us know about them in the comments section.
Posted by Andrew on January 8, 2010 9:10 PM.
Comments
Posted by: Daniel at January 8, 2010 11:47 PM
Sigh...Daniel if you're going to be subtle...at least do it right... (smacks self on the forehead)
*edit*
"One of them shares the same last name as a guy who perpetrated 'death by kool-aid.'"
Posted by: Daniel at January 8, 2010 11:51 PM
I got your subtle point! This book spends absolutely no time with the emergent types--probably because their interpretations are simple rehashes of the likes of Sanders and, more recently, N.T. Wright.
Posted by: Andrew at January 9, 2010 2:21 PM
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Silly Missionary. Don't you know that Paul's works are simply a system of belief and not actually scripture?
At least so say some of the blogs I read. Won't mention any by name except that one of them has a last name similar to a bunch of kool-aid drinkers. :-)
Anyway...This book definitely goes on my "to-read" list.