A New Identity of Obligation: Metaphors and Paul's Ethical Argument in Romans 6:1-14 - (Biblical Interpretation) by Andrés D Vera (Hardcover)

About the Book

By using tools from cognitive linguistics and conceptual metaphor theory, this volume proposes an alternative to the "indicative-imperative" schema for understanding Paul's ethical argument in Romans 6:1-14, showing instead that Paul develops the believer's new identity through a metaphorical narrative.

Book Synopsis

In Romans 6:1-14, Paul corrects an erroneous ethical conclusion drawn from the narrative of God's grace in Romans 3-5. This innovative study employs tools from cognitive linguistics to unveil Paul's sophisticated rhetorical strategy for resolving the "indicative-imperative" tension. By moving beyond traditional theological frameworks, the book shows how Paul presents believers' new identity as defined by a new obligation, illuminating the metaphorical narrative that undergirds Paul's logic. Readers will better understand the importance of conceptual spaces like "in sin" and "in Christ," and how Paul conceptualizes the relationship between believers and their "old selves" who have been crucified.

About the Author

Andrés D. Vera (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is Associate Professor of New Testament at California Baptist University. His research focuses primarily on Pauline soteriology and cognitive linguistics. He contributed several articles in the Baker Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words.