This volume examines 1 Corinthians 1-4 within first-century politics, offering insight into Paul's pastoral strategy among nascent Gentile-Jewish assemblies.

The purpose of this book is to re-examine Paul’s list of building materials in 1 Cor 3:12 in order to propose that all of the materials should be understood as good and necessary for adequately building in Paul’s construction metaphor (1 Cor 3:9-17). Contra the traditional interpretation, which argues that the materials should be broken into two groups of three, namely, three imperishable building materials (gold, silver, and precious stones) and three perishable building materials (wood, hay, and stubble), Paul’s argument concerning the building materials listed in 1 Cor 3:12 is not focused on which materials one uses to build (perishable or imperishable), but rather how one builds (i.e., quality construction with the materials/church members one has). This reading helps the church (and its leaders) understand that all the building materials (church members) are absolutely essential to building of the church. It also emphasizes that leaders of the church must seek to build well with the “folly” of the gospel and not build their ministries upon themselves.

Enlarged print edition now available! Making use of his scholar's understanding, yet writing in an approachable and anecdotal style, Tom Wright shows us the liveliness of cosmopolitan Corinth and reveals the wisdom and challenge of Paul's writing, bringing out the pastoral sensitivity and deep insight that make this letter one of Paul's crowning achievements. Tom Wright has undertaken a tremendous task: to provide guides to all the books of the New Testament, and to include in them his own translation of the entire text. Each short passage is followed by a highly readable discussion with background information, useful explanations and suggestions, and thoughts as to how the text can be relevant to our lives today. A glossary is included at the back of the book. The series is suitable for group study, personal study, or daily devotions.

Is Paul being ironic when he thanks God for the Corinthians in 1 Cor 1:4–9? On one hand, the apostle seems sincere as he gives thanks for God’s gifting of the church. On the other hand, it can be hard to trust Paul’s sincerity when the very things mentioned (e.g., “speech” and “knowledge”) will later be associated with Paul’s rebuke of the church. This book clarifies the apostle’s intent. A look at rhetorical ornamentation from Paul’s world reveals that he is using one of the most popular rhetorical figures of his day, called emphasis. The figure allows Paul to give thanks genuinely while implicitly chiding his audience through various hints. These hints prepare for every major section of the letter and the rebukes contained within them. Intriguingly, the only two comparable thanksgivings in the letter (1:14–16; 14:18–19) also employ emphasis. These passages all reveal a subtlety that is at once sincere, critical, and even humorous. They reveal that Paul is “thanking God emphatically.”

Pairing depth of scholarship with contemporary application, the authors of From Pentecost to Patmos have produced a unique introductory New Testament textbook. Craig Blomberg and Darlene Seal provide the context and clarity that readers need to better understand Acts through Revelation, showcasing the historical, linguistic, and theological implications found in each book. This second edition includes expanded footnotes and a lengthier, up-to-date introduction to Paul. Newly added review questions, maps, and diagrams enhance the scholarship and make the resource truly user-friendly.

Paul climaxes 1 Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 15 by employing the rhetorical device called insinuatio, which delays the most controversial topic of resurrection until the end of the letter after subtly hinting at it at the outset.

In this thoroughly revised and updated edition of a classic reference work, topics like Christology, justification, and hermeneutics receive careful treatment by trusted specialists. New topics like politics, patronage, and different cultural perspectives expand the volume's breadth and usefulness for scholars, pastors, and students today.