Introducing Paul - by Michael F Bird (Paperback)

About the Book

Michael F. Bird suggests that if the Paul we claim to know looks and sounds a lot like us, it's probably a sign that we don't know him as well as we think. In this book Bird offers an animated and penetrating survey of Paul's life and teaching, including the principal issues and themes in Paul's theology.

Book Synopsis

Michael F. Bird suggests that if the Paul we claim to know looks and sounds a lot like us, it's probably a sign that we don't know him as well as we think. In this book Bird offers an animated and penetrating survey of Paul's life and teaching, including the principal issues and themes in Paul's theology.

Review Quotes

"Introducing Paul is wonderfully written, intermingling scholarly observations and humor throughout. I highly recommend Bird's primer as a resource to assist new readers of Paul in understanding the essential elements of Paul's theology."

"A brief, readable, sensible summary of Pauline studies in a usable format. . . A good overview in a helpful manner, summarizing key aspects of Paul's life and message along with a good dose of humor."

"A valuable and timely contribution. . .a fine introduction to the current shape of Pauline studies. A great way for any student of the Bible to catch up on the current conversation."

"A wonderful introduction to the Apostle Paul that manages to be both brief and substantive. . .A wonderful introduction to Paul's theology."

"Author Michael Bird offers much that should educate and inspire readers about this vitally important historical figure."

"Bird has a knack of vividly putting in current context the radical nature of some New Testament claims and the way they were perceived 2,000 years ago."

"Bird has written a useful entry-level book for undergraduates, informed laypersons, and for ministers seeking to stay current within Pauline studies. Recommended for those seeking to understand the contours of Paul's thought in a way that is engaging, relevant, and highly readable."

"Bird has written a wonderfully helpful introduction to Paul. He is clearly well informed on the issues, and he writes thoughtfully in an engaging style. As a student of Paul, I found the book marvelous, a wonderful summary and reminder of key issues in Pauline studies, presented in a fresh manner."

"For anyone who would like to get 'up to date' on issues of Pauline scholarship, in a way that will help student, teacher or preacher, this book is thoroughly recommended."

"The value of the book is in Bird's ability to produce a volume that exhibits both breadth and simplicity in exploring and summarizing areas of Pauline study while also maintaining an appropriate depth for a work of introduction. Bird appears to have achieved his explicit aim to go deeper into Paul without losing his readers in the mire of scholarly debates and complex technicalities, while also hoping to show Paul both relevant and riviting to today's church."

About the Author

Michael F. Bird is lecturer in New Testament at Highland Theological College, Dingwall, Scotland. He is the author of several books, including Jesus and the Origins of the Gentile Mission and The Saving Righteousness of God: Studies on Paul, Justification and the New Perspective, as well as numerous essays, articles and reviews.