It is an understatement to say that Paul is controversial.

Paul has often gotten a bad rap. As one of the first New Testament writers, instrumental in transforming a universal message, stifled by a provincial culture, into a worldwide faith.. We are told he traveled more than 10,000 miles establishing and encouraging the spread of Jesus’ message.

His letters were occasional writings. They were dashed off to deal with local crises. Today, we read his raised voice without knowing or hearing the other side’s shouts. His words are heated. They tumble out in self-defense and urgent guidance. Where Jesus taught and guided using simple parables, Paul relied on complex theology.

Paul may not have written much of what is attributed to him, Wills tells us. Of the 13 letters he is often thought of having written; only seven are now believed to be his. They are 1 Thessalonians, Galatians, Philippians, Philemon, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, and Romans. All were written before 55 CE, long before the first Gospels and Acts of the Apostles were penned.

Although he is not a biblical scholar, as a voracious reader and a gifted writer, Wills uses recent scholarship to separate fact from fiction.

As in “Lincoln at Gettysburg” and “Nixon Agonistes” (my two favorite Wills books) the author looks at a familiar set of facts and draws startling insights. In this book I was fascinated by Wills’- a former Greek professor at Johns Hopkins University - ability to draw insightful and nuanced meaning from his personal translations of familiar New Testament verses.

With characteristic clarity, Wills frees Paul from the misconceptions that distort his significance.

Penned by the Pointed Pundit
February 15, 2007
12:59:13 PM ( )

I listened to this book in audio - and found that I kept wanting to re-read that last sentence -
Also, Garry Wills is working with what he calls "market place Greek" - he says this is the Greek the Jews used and the language of the new testament. I kept wanting to compare his translation with the translations I am more familiar with. ( )

This clear and easy read has helped to 'save' Paul for me. The real and apparent contradictions in Paul's writings are far less disturbing and easier to accept as truth when the letters that are believed to be Paul's own by the majority of scholars are then examined in chronological order and in light of what else we know about Paul's conversion and ministry. These letters are the earliest known writings about Jesus, and this informed and honest reading can make you think twice (or at least think more) about things you've been taking for granted. ( )

Interesting perspective on the most unique of Jesus' "emissaries". Historic and factual insights are good though some of his conclusions are suspect. ( )