Apocalyptic Paul - by Beverly Roberts Gaventa (Paperback)

About the Book

A revealing study of Paul's understanding of humanity in light of God's apocalyptic action through Jesus Christ, Apocalyptic Paul illuminates Romans 5-8 and shows how critical this neglected part of Romans was to Paul's literary project.

Book Synopsis

Romans 5-8 revolve around God's dramatic cosmic activity and its implications for humanity and all of creation. Apocalyptic Paul measures the power of Paul's rhetoric about the relationship of cosmic power to the Law, interpretations of righteousness and the self, and the link between grace and obedience. A revealing study of Paul's understanding of humanity in light of God's apocalyptic action through Jesus Christ, Apocalyptic Paul illuminates Romans 5-8 and shows how critical this neglected part of Romans was to Paul's literary project.

Review Quotes

Disability and Spirituality will certainly be of great interest for readers practically and theoretically engaged with the intersection of disability with spirituality, faith, and religion, but its significance lies above all in its potential to open new possibilities for dialogue and collaboration between 'researchers, educators, and practitioners' in the arenas of disability and spirituality (4).

--Daniel G. W. Smith "Journal of Disability & Religion"

In Disability and Spirituality William Gaventa develops a holistic anthropology that expands the typical understanding of disability to embrace the spiritual, and that reimagines spirituality informed by the experience of disability.

--Shane Clifton "Journal for the Study of Spirituality"

...this handsomely presented volume is surely welcome as an excellent sampling of the rich interpretive possibilities of apocalyptic for coming to grips with the cosmic dimensions of Paul's thought, not only in Rom 5-8 but in his letters in general. It will serve well as an introduction to apocalyptic for advanced students of Paul and as a scholarly contribution to the theological interpretation of Romans.

--Timothy Gombis, Grand Rapids Theological Seminary "Review of Biblical Literature"

A fine introduction to the apocalyptic Paul.

--Michael J. Gorman, St. Mary's Seminary and University "Interpretation"

On the whole, Apocalyptic Paul provides insightful reflection on the cosmological and anthropological implications of Paul's argument in Romans 5-8, while providing plenty of avenues for further contemplation of the letter more generally. Anyone who engages with these essays will enter into a conversation of lasting importance for Pauline studies.

--Eric Lewellen "Scottish Journal of Theology"

This book is a fantastic addition to Pauline and New Testament studies...All scholars, pastors, and students will find this book to be both intellectually stimulating and a helpful aid.

--Jared Brown "Wheaton Blog"

Treat yourself to the complexity of this volume, but do so with your favorite translation of Romans 5-8 close in hand, never far from the artistry of Paul's narrative and the complexity of his own voice...[Gaventa's collection] is a rich feast for those who hunger to learn -- and be challenged -- in our ongoing conversation with the Apostle Paul.

--Sean Miller, Pastor of Potomac Presbyterian Church "The Presbyterian Outlook"

About the Author

Beverly Roberts Gaventa is Distinguished Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Baylor University. She has authored many books, including From Darkness to Light: Aspects of Conversion in the New Testament and Our Mother Saint Paul.