Discerning the Spirits: Theological and Ethical Hermeneutics in Paul

by André Munzinger

Overview

How did Paul determine ethical and theological truth? Were all believers expected to be able to 'discern the spirits' (1 Corinthians 12.10)? This 2007 study shows that discernment must be understood against the backdrop of an extensive hermeneutic, by which Paul inherently relates ethical and theological knowledge. Understanding the will of God requires noetic and existential transformation, in short, the 'renewal of the mind' (Romans 12.2). Munzinger argues that Paul implies a process of inspiration in which the Spirit sharpens the discerning functions of the mind because the believer is liberated from a value system dominated by status and performance. The love of God enables all believers to learn to interpret reality in a transformed manner and to develop creative solutions to questions facing their communities. For Paul authentic discernment is linked to a comprehensive sense of meaning.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521875943
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	08/02/2007
Series:	Society for New Testament Studies Monograph Series , #140
Pages:	256
Product dimensions:	5.51(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.75(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; Abbreviations; Part I. Introduction; 1. The conceptual approach; Part II. What Requires Discernment? The Objects of Evaluation: 2. The discernment of ethical questions; 3. The discernment of spirits; 4. Discerning all things: the structure of Paul's epistemology; Part III. How Can and Should True Discernment Take Place?: 5. The context and background of Paul; 6. How does Paul believe true discernment can and should take place?; Part IV. Conclusion: 7. Recapitualtion and implications for theology; Bibliography; Indices.

Editorial Reviews

"...His work stimulates fruitful paths for understanding how Paul expected the believing community to do the work of discernment beyond the obvious, direct teaching of Scripture." —Gary T. Meadors, Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids, MI: Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society

"… Munzinger's work [is] riveting … with impressive … finesse …"
Szazadok

From the Publisher