The Spirit and Creation in Paul

by John W. Yates

Book cover: The Spirit and Creation in Paul

Extent: 218 pages

Publisher: Mohr Siebeck

Subjects: Biblical Studies

Series: Wissenschaftliche Untersuchungen zum Neuen Testament 2.Reihe

Series volume number: 251

Language: English

Paperback (Published)

(December 2008)

ISBN: 9783161498176

Price: $93.00

In stock

John W. Yates explores the meaning and significance of the Apostle Paul’s description of the divine Spirit as life-giving. He argues that with this designation Paul develops a tradition present in the literature of Ancient Judaism and identifies the Spirit as the divine agent who brings about a new creation through resurrection of the dead. In the first half of his work, the author assesses the origin and development of the breath of life tradition in Ancient Judaism, with particular focus on the use of Genesis 2:7 and Ezekiel 36-37. In the second half, he demonstrates how Paul develops this strand of tradition and elevates it to a place of prominence in his description of the divine Spirit. This begins with an analysis of Paul’s citation of Genesis 2:7 at 1 Corinthians 15:45, is followed by an examination of the letter/Spirit contrast in 2 Corinthians 3 and concludes with a careful reading of Paul’s most thorough description of the life-giving Spirit in Romans 8. Yates offers final reflections on the significance of this study for understanding divine identity in Paul’s letters and on the possible implications of this study for Pauline scholarship more widely.

  • By (author) John W Yates