Paul’sApologiain 1 Corinthians 1-4 and the Concept ofPaterfamilias

Abstract

AbstractIn Paul’s argument against dissensions, Paul is said to have tried to regain his authority before the Corinthians. The first rhetorical unit is thus seen as an apologia. In his argument, he seemingly uses the concept ofpaterfamiliasknown to have evoked power and control. However, such a proposal neglects the fact that Paul’s argument is against exactly such type of discourse in which one seeks to elevate one teacher against another. Rather, in the use of the concept ofpaterfamiliaswe should see Paul redefining the concept and filling it with affection.