The New Testament

A Historical and Theological Introduction

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Chapter

17. Paul, the Man

Questions for Research and Discussion

  1. What sources do we have that give us information about the man Paul? Which sources are most valuable historically? How can the not-quite-as-valuable sources still be useful?
  2. Of the various factors that influenced Paul, which part of his background do you think was most influential and why?
  3. Is it fair for people to claim that Paul was un-Jewish or even anti-Jewish? Why or why not?
  4. Discuss the debate surrounding Paul’s conversion/call. Offer defenses for both sides.
  5. Discuss the statement that Paul understood Christianity to be “the true Judaism.” Support or oppose this statement.