'All of You are One': The Social Vision of Gal 3.28, 1 Cor 12.13 and Col 3.11

Hansen challenges the idea that the unity formula in Gal 3.28, 1 Cor 12.13, and Col 3.11 reflects a Hellenistic anthropology of ideal androgyny or a modern liberal conception of social equality. He argues that the epistles' vision of social unity is characterized by a new social identity and the practices warranted by that identity. He also suggests that alternate identities within new Christian communities may influence one another and form the collective Christian identity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 27 June 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Hansen challenges prevalent interpretations of the unity formula found in Gal 3.28, 1 Cor 12.13, and Col 3.11, suggesting that they do not accurately reflect either a Hellenistic anthropology of ideal androgyny or a modern liberal conception of social equality. Instead, Hansen argues that a closer examination of the function and context of these epistles reveals their distinct visions of social unity. By drawing insights from ethnic theory, he elucidates how these epistles characterize this unity in terms of a new social identity and the practices that are warranted by that identity. Furthermore, Hansen posits that because identity construction is a continuous, dynamic, and discursive process, alternate identities (such as ethnic, gender, religious, and economic) within new Christian communities can influence and interact with one another, forming a collective Christian identity.

To support his argument, Hansen employs theories from Ethnic study as analytical tools. His analysis demonstrates that the social unity promoted by the unity formula opposes the cultural dominance of any particular group and, conversely, reinforces the persistence of marginal social identities within new communities. The key issue, according to Hansen, is not one of gender equality but rather the equality that Paul seeks to establish between competing social groups.

In conclusion, Hansen's study offers a fresh perspective on the unity formula by emphasizing its function and context within the broader context of the New Testament epistles. By employing ethnic theory, he demonstrates how these epistles promote social unity as a new social identity and how it interacts with and influences alternate identities within new Christian communities. This analysis challenges traditional interpretations and sheds light on the complex dynamics of identity construction and social equality within early Christian communities.

Weight: 402g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780567689313