2 Corinthians: A Social Identity Commentary

Description

In this Social Identity Commentary, Philip Esler provides a comprehensive coverage of the issues and concerns related to 2 Corinthians from the perspective of social identity. Elser outlines his interpretation of the theoretical issues concerned, and then applies this to provide a clear overview of historical and critical issues related to the study of 2 Corinthians. This provides a clear engagement with the text that will serve as a useful resource for scholars, students, clergy, and people interested in the formation and purpose of the letter. Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians deals with key aspects of the formation of the Christian community at Corinth. Paul uses his correspondence with the Corinthians to address issues of morality, of community structure, of ritual and of religious behaviour. The letter is a key document for understanding the development of Christianity and for understanding Christianity in its earliest context, and Esler proves how 2 Corinthians may be read through the lens of social identity theory. Half Title Title Page Copyright Page Dedication Contents Series preface Preface and acknowledgements Abbreviations Introduction Chapter 1: Setting the scene Chapter 2: The social identity approach to leadership Part I: 2 Corinthians 1–7: Paul re-establishes his leadership Chapter 3: Reconnecting with the Corinthians (1.1-22) Chapter 4: Paul explains himself to the Corinthians (1.23–2.13) Chapter 5: Pauline leadership and the new covenant (2.14–3.18) Chapter 6: The signs, trials and triumph of leadership (4.1-15) Chapter 7: The future destiny of Christ-followers (4.16–5.10) Chapter 8: The foundation and exercise of Pauline leadership (5.11–6.2) Chapter 9: Leadership and ingroup identity (6.3–7.4) Chapter 10: Paul, Titus and the Corinthians (7.5-16) Part II: 2 Corinthians 8–9: The collection Chapter 11: The collection (2 Corinthians 8–9) : Introductory issues Chapter 12: The collection (2 Corinthians 8–9) Part III: 2 Corinthians 10–13: Paul defends his leadership against his opponents and stiffens the Corinthians’ identity in Christ Chapter 13: Paul’s opponents and his response in a social identity perspective Chapter 14: Paul’s assertion of his leadership against the claims of his opponents (2 Corinthians 10) Chapter 15: Claiming honour as a fool (2 Corinthians 11) Chapter 16: Paul’s vision and his impending visit to Corinth : (2 Corinthians 12) Chapter 17: Confrontation in Corinth and conclusion: (2 Corinthians 13) References Index of authors Index of ancient and biblical references