Crucifixion and New Creation: The Strategic Purpose of Galatians 6.11-17

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This book provides an interpretation of Galatians 6:11-17 which yields significant insights about Pauls perception of the crisis in Galatia, and the solution he presents to his readers in light of it. In the first section of the book, the epistolary form and function of Galatians 6:11-17 are analysed. Revealed as a body-closing, it works to sharpen and complete Pauls message by spelling out his motivation for writing and establishing the basis for further communication with his readers. The theme of persecution in the letter is then seen rendered both explicitly and implicitly through the examination of pertinent passages. These indicate that all parties involved share some connection to persecution. Finally, an exegetical analysis of Galatians 6:11-17 reveals Pauls claim that the agitators primary motive is to avoid persecution because of the cross of Christ. He contrasts them with himself by boasting in that same cross. The net effect is that Paul draws on both the redemptive moment of Jesus death, and the ongoing cross-shaped life he lives, to validate his apostleship.

Reviews

This study of Pauls theology originated as a doctoral dissertation at Loyola University Chicago, focusing on Galatians 6:11-17 as a key to understanding the underlying circumstance that prompted the entire letter. Rather than a closing section of the letter summarizing its main points, this text, written in Pauls own hand (see Gal 6:11), reveals the heart of the problem: the opponents Paul rails against are urging the Galatians to adopt male circumcision in order to avoid persecution a genuine clarification of the purpose of Galatians * Bible Today *
The structure of Hubings book is clear; the language is accessible; and the substance is rich with significant insights/ This book has a real potential to change how we look at the structure and substance of Gal 6:11-17 from here on. I recommend it for scholars and graduate students alike. * The Catholic Biblical Quarterly *

Author Bio

Jeff Hubing is the President of FIRE School of Ministry Chicago, USA, a training centre for Christian ministry and leadership, and Adjunct Professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary, USA.