An Introduction to the Study of Paul

Reviews / Votes

This Introduction to the Study of Paul, written by one of fairest and most judicious of scholars, is a handy point of access into Pauline studies, offering a trustworthy overview of current issues in the interpretation of Paul and his letters. * Bruce Longenecker, Baylor University, USA * This slim but substantive volume concisely surveys the many questions raised by Paul's letters and the various answers put forward by scholars. Where there is a clear consensus, the author describes it. Where there is ongoing debate-e.g., with respect to chronology, Christology, or Paul's use of scripture-he generally lays out the best arguments available for each side. One comes away with a better understanding of Paul, despite the author's modest claim that he is simply preparing students to read the apostle with a sympathetic yet critical eye. In addition to useful study questions at the end of each chapter and updated bibliographies, Horrell has augmented the text of this second edition to include discussions of the "new perspective" on Paul, the narrative substructure of his theology, the pistis Christou debate, Paul's ethics, and other topics. Highly recommended for introducing students to Pauline studies. -- Patrick Gray * Rhodes College, Religious Studies Review * Neat and succinct ... well set-out and user-friendly, detailing a range of recent discussions of Paul's career and theology. * Pastoral Review * the book is fully referenced and well indexed... He also manages to combine the virtues of the book with the further ones of putting matters across in a readable fashion...and in a manner which encourages you to read Paul * Journal for the study of the New Testament * This is an invaluable service to anyone interested in further studies on Paul * Bibliotheca Sacra * A clear, concise and well-structured book. * The Methodist Recorder * ...it would be hard to find a more useful concise introduction to the study of Paul. * The Expository Times * The third edition of David Horrell's introduction to the study of Paul has the great strengths of its predecessors - above all, clarity and readability. This is indeed a book that can be put into the hands of undergraduates without fear of their stumbling over technical terms or abstruse concepts ... Particularly commendable is Horrell's sensitivity to the fact that students approach Paul from a range of starting-points, outside as well as within the Christian faith. -- Stephen I. Wright, Spurgeon's College, UK * Psephizo * Horrell introduces readers to the basic questions in Pauline studies, and acquaints them with the major arguments about the possible answers to those questions. The first edition of the book was required reading in my classes on Paul. This expanded second edition will certainly help anyone who wants to learn more about the current debates regarding the significance of Paul's life and work. -- Steve Friesen, Louise Farmer Boyer Chair in Biblical Studies, University of Texas A thorough and illuminating guide to the variety of approaches and debates in the study of Paul. This thoroughly revised second edition opens up endless opportunities for class discussions with the inclusion of thought-provoking study questions. This perceptive and lucid introduction presents complex debates and methodological issues in a highly usable format for undergraduates. An indispensable addition to any reading list for courses on Paul and an excellent choice as a main course text. -- Margaret MacDonald, Professor, New Testament, St. Francis Xavier University, David Horrell has written the perfect introduction to the study of Paul. Horrell summarises the key areas with enthusiasm and good judgement, offering pointers to the major scholarship with admirable clarity. This book is ideal for undergraduate students setting out on their study of the apostle's life, letters and thought. Put your other books on Paul to one side and begin here. -- Mark Goodacre, Associate Professor in New Testament, Duke University, USA The new materials that have been added to this edition clearly enhance its value as an introduction to the field... it is hard to think of any major issues that have been neglected.' '...a well-written and helpful book that offers a solid introduction to the field of Pauline students for undergraduate or graduate students' 'Like the first edition, this books fills a special niche in the universe of introductory texts on the apostle Paul. -- Christopher D. Stanley * RBL * an admirable introduction... Discussions throughout are clear and crisp. Diverse viewpoints are fairly presented, and Horrell is generally careful to point out how opposing views both find support in the primary sources. It is difficult to imagine how students could better be introduced to the discipline of Pauline scholarship... students for whom this textbook is assigned will undoubtedly be well served. -- Stephen Westerholm * RBL * David Horrell's An Introduction to the Study of Paul has established itself as the standard entry point in English into the academic study of Paul. Teachers and students alike appreciate the clarity and accessibility of Horrell's style, his concise yet comprehensive coverage of topics, and his evenhanded treatment of debated issues. The production of a third edition keeps the discussion up to date, ensuring that the book continues to serve as the leading primer on Paul and Pauline scholarship. * Edward Adams, King's College London, UK *