The Social Significance of Reconciliation in Paul's Theology: Narrative Readings in Romans

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This is an assessment of the social dimension to reconciliation as displayed in Paul's Letter to the Romans. Traditional exegetical scholarship has treated Paul's presentation of reconciliation as referring to reconciliation between people and God, and has primarily focused use of the word katallage - traditionally translated as 'atonement'. Constantineanu challenges this view and argues that Paul's understanding of the concept is more complex, employing rich symbolism to describe reconciliation with God and between human beings forming together an inseparable reality. The discussion is placed within Paul's overall religious, social and political contexts, showing that an analysis of the social dimension of reconciliation in his thought is both plausible and necessary. Constantineanu offers an analysis of two major sections of Romans, chapters 5-8 and 12-15. Special emphasis is placed on Paul's use of the story of Jesus for community formation, for the shaping of identity, values and community practices. It is thus demonstrated that for Paul God's reconciling initiative, shown in the crucifixion, is not only the pronouncement of God's reconciling the world, but also the ground and model for reconciliation among human beings. It was formerly the Journal for the Study of the New Testament Supplement , a book series that explores the many aspects of New Testament study including historical perspectives, social-scientific and literary theory, and theological, cultural and contextual approaches.

Reviews

Informative and well-written, it will make a significant contribution to Pauline studies... Paul would, I think, be pleased with this application of his theology of reconciliation... Constantineanu's book is a welcome demonstration, both for Pauline scholars and for Christians living in conflict-divided communities, of the power of the gospel of God to make broken and wounded relationships a new creation.' -- Theology
Informative and well-written, it will make a significant contribution to Pauline studies. -- Theology Vol 114 No. 4
... an excellent book... a very useful study. -- Journal for the Study of The New Testament, Volume 33 Number 5
In addition to its unusual relevance for the situation of religious competition, this well-written and carefully documented study provides a healthy reorientation in interpreting the reconciliation theme in Romans and elsewhere. It introduces a significant new voice in the current ecumenical discourse in Pauline theology and ethics. This book is strongly recommended for pastors and students. -- Review of Biblical Literature
This book... should be read by anyone interested in studying religion's role in reconciling earthly conflicts. Scholars interested in a narrative analysis of biblical texts, and in the theology of the NPP should also read this book. -- Reviews in Religion & Theology

Author Bio

Dr. Corneliu Constantineanu is Associate Professor of New Testament and Biblical Interpretation, and Academic Dean at the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Osijek, Croatia. He has received his PhD from the University of Leeds, UK and has published mainly in the area of Pauline theology and reconciliation.