Description

Paul through the Eyes of the Reformers offers a fresh and insightful reassessment of how prominent sixteenth-century Protestant Reformers understood and interpreted the writings of the Apostle Paul. In this concise yet penetrating volume, author Stephen Chester addresses common misconceptions and provides a clear, accurate portrayal of the Reformers’ views, emphasizing their continuing relevance for contemporary readers of Pauline theology.

Throughout the book, Chester condenses and updates central themes from his extensive scholarly study, Reading Paul with the Reformers, awarded Christianity Today’s Biblical Studies Book of the Year. Paul through the Eyes of the Reformers makes these foundational ideas available to a broader audience in a more concise, accessible format.

To clarify the background and context out of which the Reformers read Paul, Chester provides an overview of how Paul’s letters were interpreted prior to the sixteenth century. With this historical grounding, Chester explores the significant interpretive changes pioneered by reformers such as Martin Luther, Philip Melanchthon, and John Calvin. He carefully demonstrates both the strengths and limitations of their approaches, highlighting the importance of engaging critically with their ideas, respectfully acknowledging differences when necessary, and continuing to learn from their insights.

This book is an essential resource for biblical scholars, theologians, pastors, and students wishing to deepen their appreciation and understanding of Pauline theology through the lens of the Protestant Reformation.