Synopses & Reviews
This work makes sense of the apostle Paul's paradoxical description of his ministry in 2 Corinthians: "When I am weak, then I am strong!" In an extensive inquiry into the thought-world of Roman Corinth, Savage demonstrates that the Corinthians are evaluating Paul according to the social standards of their day. Since this is the exact antithesis of his own perspective, Paul can only resort to paradox by way of defense.
Review
"This book is a masterful treatment of Paul's defense of his ministry in 2 Corinthians, a ministry that, ironically, though 'weak' in the eyes of the Corinthians, demonstrated the power of God." Roy Zuck, Bibliotheca Sacra"This is a sensible book that seeks to explain the paradoxical language of the apostle Paul regarding the nature and character of his ministry in canonical 2 Corinthians....the exegetical portions of this volume make it worthy not only of reading but of study." Thomas Gillespie, Journal of Biblical Literature"This is a book that will benefit scholar and minister alike." Eugene Hensell O.S.B., The Catholic Biblical Quarterly
Synopsis
Dr Savage explains Paulâs paradoxical description of his ministry: âWhen I am weak, then I am strong!âDrawing from archaeological data on first-century Corinth, this study establishes the secular underpinnings of Paulâs language and his critique of society. He emerges as a radical foil to the spirit of the age.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 193-223) and indexes.
Table of Contents
Preface; Abbreviations; Introduction; Part I. Power through Weakness: the Background: 1. The social setting of first-century Corinth: an historical examination; 2. The situation in the Corinthian church: a biblical analysis; Part II. Power through Weakness: the Meaning; 3. The nature of the Christian ministry: the glory of Christ; 4. The nature of the Christian ministry: the shame of the cross; 5. The pattern of the Christian ministry: glory through shame; 6. The pattern of the Christian ministry: power through weakness; Conclusion; Appendix; Select bibliography; Indexes.