An Introduction to the Study of Paul

This tried and tested introduction to Paul needs little introduction of its own. After considering Paul's importance and influence, and the important sources for the study of Paul, the volume covers the following key topics: the earliest period of Christianity - from Jesus to Paul; Paul's life before and after his 'conversion'; his individual letters; the major elements of his theology; his attitude to Israel and the Jewish law; perspectives on the Pauline assemblies, including their socio-economic location, meeting places, and attitudes towards women; and Paul's legacy in the New Testament and beyond.
The volume has been revised throughout and fully updated with respect to bibliography, and to presenting the latest debates surrounding Paul's thought in a manageable format - including those around 'old' and 'new' perspectives, with a new section on the 'radical' new Jewish perspective, and those related to the socio-economic status and character of the Pauline assemblies. The helpful study questions and reading lists have also been revised.

“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.” —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 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.” —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.” —RBL

“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

“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