Paul is too often seen by the popular mind as an abstract, mythological theologian who says too much about the future and not enough about the present. Even within professional exegetical circles the emphasis is usually upon future hope. This book stresses the other side. Without denying the importance of the future and without simplistically assuming all is right in the church, Robin Scroggs emphasizes and celebrates the affirmations Paul makes about the believer's eschatological life in the present as fulfillment of God's original intent in creation. Salvation is not a future escape from human existence; it is the present result of the liberation power from God which transforms persons into authentic human beings. Where possible, insights from sociology of knowledge illustrate and support the real possibility in Paul's affirmations. Here is a relevant introductory text for lay people as well as college students.
