The Theology of the Shorter Pauline Letters [Paperback]

A groundbreaking study of the theological message of the Shorter Pauline Letters.This original exposition of the theological message of the Shorter Pauline Letters (1 and 2 Thessalonians, Philippians, Philemon) transcends the traditional by analyzing them in their cultural context and revealing the basis of Christian life underlying them.This original exposition of the theological message of the Shorter Pauline Letters (1 and 2 Thessalonians, Philippians, Philemon) transcends the traditional by analyzing them in their cultural context and revealing the basis of Christian life underlying them.This book breaks new ground in offering an exposition of the theological message of the Shorter Pauline Letters. Karl P. Donfried puts 1 and 2 Thessalonians in their cultural context, and identifies a number of key themes in these letters, such as the notion of election. I. Howard Marshall's study of Philippians brings out especially the understanding of the theological basis of the Christian life that underlies the letter, while his discussion of Philemon emphasizes how the main theme of the letter is the relation between the gospel and Christian ethics.Editor's preface; 1. The setting of 1 Thessalonians; 2. The theology of 1 Thessalonians; 3. 1 Thessalonians, the Pauline corpus and Acts; 4. The setting of 2 Thessalonians; 5. The theology of 2 Thessalonians; 6. Thessalonians and the New Testament; 7. The significance of 2 Thessalonians for today; 8. Exploring the building site; 9. Laying the foundation; 10. Building the walls; 11. The shape of the Church; 12. Philippians and its architect; 13. A building that still stands; 14. The Gospel and slavery.'& Marshall's remarks regarding the historical background and theological contexts of the letter are as sage as they are succinct.' Expository Times