Wednesday, September 08, 2004

The New Perspective on Paul

A hot-button topic in evangelicalism these days is the so-called "New Perspective on Paul." The term was coined by New Testament scholar James D. G. Dunn, and is now used loosely to also describe the theological interpretations of E. P. Sanders and N. T. Wright. One of their central arguments is that the Reformed church seriously misunderstands the doctrine of justification, having been unduly influenced by Martin Luther. In its place, they see a more corporate, eschatological dimension to justification. Paul, they say, was not primarily concerning with people trying to earn their way into heaven by means of "good works." Rather, he was upset by those who used "boundary markers"--like circumcision, Sabbath-keeping, and food laws--as a means of righteousness.

It all sounds rather academic. But it actually has deep practical implications. For those interested in learning more, I would recommend reading or listening to J. Ligon Duncan III. He is the Senior Minister at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson, MS and an adjunct systematic theology professor at Reformed Theological Seminary.

A long review by Duncan is entitled The Attractions of the New Perspective(s) on Paul. A more recent and concise summary is given by Dr. Duncan under the title The Biblical Doctrine of Justification. Or you can listen to Mark Dever discuss the New Perspective in a recent 9 Marks Interview.