1 Corinthians: A Social Identity Commentary - (T&t Clark Social Identity Commentaries on the New Testament) by J Brian Tucker (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Paul's first letter to the Corinthians deals with key aspects of the formation of the Christian community at Corinth. Paul uses his correspondence with the Corinthians to address issues of morality, of community structure, of ritual and of religious behaviour. The letter is a key document for understanding the development of Christianity and for understanding Christianity in its earliest context.

In this Social Identity Commentary, J. Brian Tucker provides a comprehensive coverage of the issues and concerns related to 1 Corinthians from the perspective of social identity. Tucker outlines his interpretation of the theoretical issues concerned, and then applies this to provide a clear overview of historical and critical issues related to the study of 1 Corinthians. This provides a clear engagement with the text that will serve as a useful resource for scholars, students, clergy, and people interested in the formation and purpose of the letter.

Review Quotes

"Rare are the commentaries that engage with the most recent, cutting-edge scholarship to assist in bringing to the table innovative and stimulating interpretations of Scripture. J. Brian Tucker's reading of 1 Corinthians, I am happy to say, is such a work. His deft handling of the letter's many verses includes evaluating alternative explanations, courtesy towards views he disagrees with, and arrival at fresh insights that will surely benefit informed readers." --B. J. Oropeza, Azusa Pacific University and Seminary, US

"Drawing on both social identity and self-categorization theory, this wonderfully helpful commentary opens up new understanding of Paul's letter. By giving attention to the social dynamics within 1 Corinthians, as well as the social implications of the gospel, Tucker enables us to see the letter from new vantage points and with greatly enhanced clarity. Highly recommended for all who want to see new and previously overlooked dimensions of this great letter." --Paul Trebilco, University of Otago, New Zealand

"Brian Tucker offers a splendid commentary that informs the reader of different approaches of SIT and clearly demonstrates the academic relevance of integrating them into exegetical endeavors. He offers fresh insights into Paul's activity as a teacher-leader which enhance our view on Paul the theologian and his apostleship by showing Paul's management of complex identity matters in Corinth. This commentary comes highly recommended for theologians and today's teacher-leaders in Christ." --Myriam Klinker-De Klerck, Theological University Utrecht, Netherlands

"Brian Tucker's combination of expertise in Social Identity Theory and historical criticism undertaken from a "within Judaism" perspective, constructed in dialogue with prevailing commentary traditions, yields a wealth of important insights." --Mark D. Nanos, University of Kansas, US

About the Author