New Testament scholar N.T. Wright discusses Paul's Trinitarian theology, emphasizing high Christology, monotheism, and ecclesial unity. Topics include Paul's Jewish monotheistic framework, the legacy of the Shema prayer, divine presence, unity within the Christian community, and the transformative power of theological reflections.
Paul's Trinitarian theology is deeply rooted in Jewish monotheism, integrating Jesus and the Spirit within a unified understanding of God.
Despite the absence of explicit Trinitarian terms, Paul's writings reveal a complex interplay between God, Jesus, and the Spirit within a monotheistic framework.
Paul's exalted Christology not only shapes doctrinal beliefs but also informs practical unity, humility, and mutual submission within the Christian community.
Deep dives
Paul's Basis in Jewish Monotheism
Paul's theology of the Triune God is rooted in his understanding of Jewish monotheism. While Paul speaks of Jesus and the Spirit within this framework, he emphasizes that they are not additions but integral parts of God's monotheism. This foundation in Jewish monotheism guides Paul's interpretation and articulation of God's triune nature, highlighting the interconnectedness and unity within the divine.
Challenges in Applying Classic Trinitarian Language to Paul
Discussing Paul's Trinitarian theology presents challenges due to the absence of explicit Trinitarian terms in his writings. Despite the lack of direct terminology, Paul's depiction of God, Jesus, and the Spirit underscores a deep interplay within a monotheistic framework. Exploring Paul's unique approach to articulating the divine triad requires careful consideration of his language and the Jewish context in which he operated.
Paul's Practical Application of High Christology
Paul's exalted Christology is not merely a doctrinal statement but serves as the foundation for practical implications within the Christian community. His emphasis on Jesus as divine and the Lord incorporates a framework of humility, unity, and mutual submission among believers. By portraying Jesus as the centerpiece of communal love and unity, Paul's high Christology shapes the ethical and relational dynamics within the early church.
Monotheism, the Cross, and the Solution to Evil
In Paul's theology, the revelation of the Triune God unveils not only the nature of divinity but also the depth of human sin and evil. As Paul grapples with the problem of sin, oppressive powers, and dark forces, he finds the ultimate solution in the cross of Jesus and the outpouring of the Spirit. Through a profound understanding of monotheism in conjunction with the crucified Messiah, Paul articulates a transformative response to the pervasive presence of sin and death in the world.
Living out Trinitarian Theology in Daily Life
The practical implications of faith in a triumphant God entail embracing a deeply trinitarian theology. Paul's writings emphasize the role of the Spirit in our lives, where we share in the groaning of the world and are called to pray amidst this pain. This aligns with the concept of suffering with Christ and being conformed to His image, reflecting a cruciform pattern of ministry in the real world.
The Role of Supernatural Action and Spirit in Present-Day Church
Acknowledging the place of supernatural action and the Spirit in the church today is vital. While emphasizing God's ability to perform remarkable deeds, it is essential to move beyond a dualistic understanding of the supernatural. Instead, recognizing the dynamic overlap of heaven and earth in creation allows for a more profound engagement with the divine presence in everyday life.
In his lecture “The One Triune God Amidst Religious Pluralism, Clashing Kingdoms, and Prevalent Evil” delivered at the 2014 Fuller Forum, N.T. Wright, New Testament scholar and former bishop of Durham, considered Paul’s Trinitarian theology, which involves high Christology, robust monotheism, and ecclesial unity.
The 2014 Fuller Forum featured keynote speaker N.T. Wright, who presented on how the writings and theology of Paul might shape the church in the 21st century. A world-renowned New Testament scholar and prolific author, N.T. Wright was, at the time of this recording, research professor of New Testament and early Christianity at St. Mary’s College in the University of St. Andrews. He also served as the bishop of Durham from 2003 to 2010.
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