#87 Who was the Apostle Paul and why does he still matter?
Oct 14, 2021
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Tom Wright, an expert on the life and legacy of the apostle Paul, discusses the significance of Paul's role as an interpreter of Jesus and his impact on the world. He explores Paul's formation of worship-based, educational, and philanthropic communities, as well as his vision for renewed human lives. The chapter also touches on Paul's personality and his commitment to unity and holiness.
Paul's teachings transcend religion, encompassing politics, culture, economics, and community life, presenting a new kind of empire based on suffering love.
Through his letters, Paul encourages believers to think critically and mature in their faith, fostering a renewed way of being human.
Deep dives
Paul as a Public Intellectual
Paul is one of the most important public intellectuals of all time, articulating a new vision of reality. His teachings transcend religion, encompassing politics, culture, economics, and community life. He emphasizes that his gospel is the fulfillment of Israel's purpose and holds a new synthesis of Jewish, Greek, and Roman ideologies. By proclaiming Jesus as Lord and Savior, Paul challenges the powers of the world and presents a new kind of empire based on suffering love.
The Importance of Paul's Biography
Paul's biography provides context for understanding his letters. It reveals the continuity of his thought, the depth of his prayer life, and the impact of significant events on his ministry. For example, his quiet decade sheds light on Romans 9:1-5, where Paul expresses his deep sorrow for his fellow Jews. Additionally, his possible visit to Spain highlights his ambition and his commitment to spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth. Paul's biography allows us to glimpse into his personal life and experiences that shaped his theology and teachings.
Key Themes in Paul's Work
Paul's work centers around the establishment and maintenance of worship-based, educational, egalitarian, philanthropic, and fictive kinship groups, which we understand as churches. These communities embody the love of Jesus, reflecting it within and outside their walls. Paul insists on the unity and holiness of these communities, navigating the challenges of cultural diversity and pagan surroundings. Through his letters, Paul encourages believers to think critically and mature in their faith, fostering a renewed way of being human.
Paul's Goal: Renewed Human Lives
Paul's ultimate aim is to create renewed human lives and communities. He envisions a world where people are transformed by the renewing of their minds, and where Jewish and Gentile believers are united as one family. His gospel challenges conventional religious categories and offers a new cultural and social reality rooted in the love and presence of Jesus. Paul's teachings remain relevant today, inspiring communities to embody unity, holiness, love, and genuine humanity.
Tom Wright talks about the life and legacy of the apostle Paul in front of an audience at Westminster Central Hall, London. The lecture was part of an event by SPCK to mark the publication of Paul: A Biography in 2018.