Pre-existence in the Pauline Writings

Abstract

We shall deal with the Pauline writings in the chronological order established by modern scholarship. In this way we hope to avoid the distortions which may result from a premature systematization of Paul's thought. Johannes Munck has shown most effectively how the Pauline letters should be read as occasional writings embedded in the historical context of the mission to the Gentiles. While we cannot agree with many of his conclusions, we are convinced that Munck's method is basically the only sound approach to Paul. We shall deal first with those letters which are generally attributed to the apostle himself: I Thessalonians, Galatians, Corinthians, Romans, Philippians and Philemon; and then with those whose Pauline authorship is disputed: II Thessalonians, Colossians, Ephesians, Timothy and Titus. Most scholars who dispute the Pauline authorship of the latter group nevertheless agree that they originated in circles under the apostle's influence. They provide valuable evidence for the initial development of the theology of Paul in the early Gentile Church. THE LETTERS WRITTEN BY PAUL I Thessalonians If one begins one's reading of Paul's letters with the brief correspondence to the Thessalonians, one is immediately struck by the strong apocalyptic cast of his thought.