Customer Reviews

Paul and power: The structure of authority in the primitive church as reflected in the Pauline epistles

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The earlier review written about this product prompts me to write -- admittedly briefly -- about this book from a different perspective. I do not recall the tone of the book being authoritarian or dark in any way (though perhaps my own upbringing as an Episcopalian and Methodist under the authority of bishops insulates me from this :) ). I do recall, however, that Holmberg very helpfully takes the categories of "legitimate authority" developed by Max Weber and applies these (together with more recent sociological theories of leadership, of course) successfully to the analysis of Pauline texts and communities. He analyzes, for example, the different modes of legitimation used by Paul and his rivals in the various churches, and traces out the emerging "routinization of authority" as charisma yields inevitably to the establishment of offices inwhich authority resides for the long haul. Bengt Holmberg was highly formative for my own development in applying sociology of religion models to New Testament study, and I would highly recommend both this volume and his "Sociology and the New Testament: An Appraisal" to all students of the New Testament (especially those approaching New Testament interpretation professionally, whether from the pulpit or the lecturer's desk.

One thing I observed almost immediately in this book, is what I would describe as a "strong-arm" temperament by the writer concerning ecclesiastical authority. Kind of a "obey me, your supreme and holy superior, or suffer the consequences" undertone within the writing which I found as a consistent irritant.

If one can get past the somewhat harsh, cold and clinical tone of the writing, one can glean some information tid-bits... such as the 12 primary names within the Pauline servant-group, and the listing of Greek words which Paul used to describe them functionally. (e.g. Diakonos, synergos etc) which peaked my interest for a further focused study.


For a book you might find as informational without the "dark-ages" tone, I would refer you to F.F. Bruce "The Pauline Circle"
ISBN 0853643970

Bruce, in MHO comes closer to touching the warmth of Paul's heart.

The tone of this book is my reason for the low score.