The Pauline ecclesia is a diverse mixture of multi-nationals and ethnics;
multi-religions and faiths; multi-cultures and traditions. Pauline Churches included
members from various socio-cultural and economic influences prevalent during his time. In
the formation of early Christian communities, issues such as inequality, identity crisis,
ethnic conflicts and disunity became visible. Paul uses different socio-cultural and
theological concepts/imageries to address the issues. Liberation-oriented readings have
overlooked the socio-cultural aspects of the Pauline texts. The book proposes that the
Pauline texts reflect on certain socio-cultural issues, which need serious consideration.
On closer observation, Paul repeatedly used a particular term, i.e., `En Christo',
to address the issues which have continued to baffle scholars. Unraveling the Paul's use
of the phrase `En Christo' would also help in understanding the foundation of
Pauline ecclesiology and might enable to address the issues that are prevalent in the
contemporary context. Therefore, this scholarly work provides a detailed study on the
subject. It asserts that "Liberative Inclusive Ecclesiology" is a relevant model
in the light of the present day Indian context.
Contents
Foreword
Acknowledgments
Preface
Abstract
Abbreviations
1. Introduction
1.1 Background
1.2 Basis of the Research
1.3 An Elaboration
1.4 Review of Previous Research
1.5 Methodology
1.6 Conclusion
2. Towards Understanding the Greco-Roman Environment of the Pauline Epistles
2.1 Introduction
2.2 The Greco-Roman World
2.3 Political Background of the Greco-Roman World
2.4 Economical Background of the Greco-Roman World
2.5 Religious Background of the Greco-Roman World
2.6 Social Background of the Greco-Roman World
2.7 Conclusion
3. The Meaning of `En Christo' and its Derivatives
3.1 Introduction
3.2 The Phrase
3.3 `En Christo' and its Derivatives
3.4 Conclusion
4. Exegetical Study of the Select Passages from Pauline Epistles
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Body of Christ: Rom. 12:3-8
4.3 Divisions in the Church: 1 Cor. 3:1-4
4.4 Religious, Social, Economic and Gender Aspects: Gal. 3:26-29
4.5 Christ Breaking the Wall of Separation: Eph. 2:11-22
4.6 Summary from the Exegetical Passages
5. The Significance of Individual and Corporate Elements in `En Christo' as
Foundation for the Pauline Ecclesiology
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Body of Christ
5.3 Infants in Christ
5.4 Wall
5.5 Temple
5.6 Significance of these Images in the Pauline Churches
5.7 Conclusion
6. Conclusion - Towards an "Inclusive Liberative Ecclesiology"
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Challenges to the Indian Church in Today's Context
6.3 Application
6.4 Conclusion: Towards an "Inclusive Liberative
Ecclesiology"
Bibliography
Rev. Pathipati Victor Paul was born in Dornakal, Warangal Dt.,
Telangana State and was brought up in Nalgonda where he became permanent member of CSI St.
Paul's Church, Nalgonda, Nalgonda Dt., Telangana State. After completing Engineering and
Computer Studies, he did his graduation from the Osmania University and M.Sc (Psy) from
the University of Madras. He took up BD and M.Th studies from the University of Serampore,
Calcutta. He is an Ordained Presbyter from the CSI Karimnagar Diocese. He served the
Diocese in various capacities and devoted to Pastoral ministry. Being passionate for rural
evangelism, he has rendered his services mainly to rural congregations. He has also
written quite a good number of scholarly articles. His wife Rev. Dr. Bethel Krupa is also
an Ordained Presbyter from the CSI Karimnagar Diocese and presently teaching at the United
Theological College, Bangalore, in the department of Christian Ministry - Christian
Education.
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