Paul as Missionary - (Library of New Testament Studies) by Trevor J Burke & Chris Keith & Brian S Rosner (Hardcover)

About the Book

This book examines Paul with reference to his primary purpose and context - as a missionary.

Book Synopsis

Paul as Missionary: Identity, Activity, Theology and Practice takes the view that before anything else Paul must first and foremost be identified as a missionary. Using the entire Pauline corpus the contributors to this volume assess what Paul's correspondence can tell us about how he perceived his role and identity. The work comprises four parts: in section one, Paul's identity as priest, eschatological herald, and missionary-pastor are explored while in part two topics such as the apostle's activity among pagans, his suffering, and Paul's missionary message; to the church at Rome are considered. Section three comprises essays on the Spirit as the governing dynamic, the glory of God as the apostles missionary goal, and the importance of Paul's Christology in shaping his mission to the Gentiles. Finally, part four addresses Paul's missionary praxis, including his support of his missionary enterprise.

Review Quotes

"Once again, the Library of New Testament Studies (formerly JSNTSup series) have commissioned a world-class standard scholarly work on the New Testament, drawing on a variety of linguistic, textual, and historical methodologies... A stimulating and enlightening read." --James Harding, St Mellitus College, London, Anvil

"This compilation features essays by leading NT scholars on various aspects [which] jointly contribute to Pauline studies generally and to Paul as missionary specifically. Perhaps more importantly, though, this volume bridges the gap between Pauline theology and praxis." --David Briones, Religious Studies Review

"Burke and Rosner have done Pauline and missiological studies a great service in gathering these essays...a nuanced and even-handed reading of Paul...recommended for missions, intercultural studies and Pauline theology courses and accessible for upper-level undergraduates and seminary students." --Brian Tucker, Criswell Theological Review

"Once again, the Library of New Testament Studies (formerly JSNTSup series) have commissioned a world-class standard scholarly work on the New Testament, drawing on a variety of linguistic, textual, and historical methodologies." --James Harding, Anvil

"The collection's strength lies in drawing attention to the variety of topics that relate to Paul as missionary, ranging from social issues such as ethnicity and patronage to theological concerns such as sacrifice and the Holy Spirit...many of these issues...have rarely been the focus of research in the area of Pauline missiology. Another significant contribution is the emphasis on the prophetic foundation and eschatological motivation of Paul's missional theology, identity, and ethnic focus." --Jeffrey R. Asher, Catholic Biblical Quarterly

"The authors...deliver a compelling case...that Paul should be viewed from the perspective of missionary...a valuable contribution to Pauline studies." --Ronald R. Clark, Review of Biblical Literature

About the Author

Trevor J. Burke teaches New Testament in the Bible department of the Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, USA. Prior to this, he has taught New Testament in seminaries in Nigeria and Fiji.

Brian S. Rosner took his PhD from Cambridge University, UK, and is Senior Lecturer in New Testament and Ethics in Moore Theological College, Sydney, Australia.