Paul, the Corinthians, and the birth of Christian hermeneutics
Book Description
In the vibrant exchanges between Paul and the Corinthian community during the mid-50s AD, something profound was taking shape that would influence Christian understanding for centuries to come. Margaret Mary Mitchell reveals how Paul, through his correspondence with this early Christian community, was actively creating the foundational principles that would guide how believers interpret sacred texts.
This scholarly exploration demonstrates how Paul navigated the delicate balance between literal and deeper spiritual meanings in his letters. Sometimes he insisted his readers take his words at face value, while at other times he encouraged them to look beyond the surface to discover richer truths within. Through these dynamic interactions, Paul was unknowingly establishing the interpretive methods that future Christian thinkers would apply to all of scripture.
Mitchell presents a compelling case for viewing Paul not just as a missionary or theologian, but as a pioneer of biblical interpretation itself. By examining how later Christian scholars used Paul's own hermeneutical approaches, she illuminates the lasting impact of these ancient conversations on the development of Christian thought.
Originally presented as prestigious lectures at Oxford University, this work offers readers a fresh perspective on how sacred texts have been understood and applied throughout Christian history. For those interested in the intersection of spirituality and textual interpretation, this study provides valuable insights into the origins of Christian biblical scholarship.
Who Is This For?
π Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~5 hours)
π Length: 178 pages
What You'll Discover
- β Study Bible from spiritual perspective
- β Explore Bibel
- β Explore Analys och tolkning
- β Explore Hermeneutics
- β Explore Criticism, interpretation
- β Explore Bible
- β Explore Bible. N.T. Corinthians - Criticism, Interpretation
- β Explore Bibeln