The Pauline Book and the Dilemma of Ephesians

Benjamin J. Petroelje challenges the contemporary consensus that Ephesians depicts development away from the "real Paul" and argues that the letter holds together tensions surrounding Paul's Jewish identity and gentile gospel. He suggests that by analyzing ancient letter collections alongside their hermeneutical priorities and applying this method to the late-antique and modern reception of the corpus Paulinum, we can historicize the origins of the split of Paul's corpus and advocate for Ephesians as a crucial source for the study of Paul, whether he wrote it or not.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Benjamin J. Petroelje contends that the interpretation of Ephesians hinges on more profound inquiries into the reading of the Pauline corpus. Petroelje proposes that the prevailing contemporary view, which posits Ephesians as a portrayal of the evolution or deviation from the "true Paul," is predominantly a product of modern criticism, deeply influenced by evolving strategies for interpreting a collection of letters that emerged in the 19th century.

To illustrate his argument, Petroelje utilizes Ephesians 3:1-13 as a focal point for analysis. He suggests that the textual "image of Paul" in Ephesians not only foreshadows recent reinterpretations of Paul's Jewish identity and gentile gospel but also harmonizes tensions within the collection itself concerning these issues. By comparing ancient letter collections alongside their own hermeneutical frameworks and applying this approach to the late-antique and modern reception of the Pauline corpus, Petroelje endeavors to historicize the origins of the division of Paul's writings. This analysis reveals the constructed nature of the critical consensus on Ephesians and the impact that such modern reading strategies have on interpreting the letter.

In his advocacy, Petroelje urges a renewed approach to reading Ephesians in conjunction with other Pauline texts. He views Ephesians as a vital resource for studying Paul, regardless of whether he authored it. By emphasizing the interconnectedness and interdependence of the Pauline letters, Petroelje aims to provide a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the Apostle's thought and ministry.

In conclusion, Benjamin J. Petroelje's thesis challenges the prevailing interpretation of Ephesians and highlights the significance of considering broader hermeneutical perspectives when interpreting the Pauline corpus. Through his meticulous analysis and compelling arguments, Petroelje encourages a re-examination of Ephesians and advocates for its importance in the study of Paul. His work contributes to a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the Apostle's life and teachings, shedding light on the complex and evolving nature of early Christian interpretation.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780567703729