Cross and Human Transformation, The by Alexandra Brown

by Alexandra R. Brown

In our time the cross is often more a source of controversy than a sign of peace. While aware of differing points of view, Alexandra Brown shows that Paul's proclamation of the cross was an inclusive and empowering word of liberation, peace, and reconciliation. In 1 Corinthians Paul strikes at the heart of schism in the church. Against the barriers of ego and ideology that divided believers in Corinth, he proclaims a liberating message. This book explores the way the word of the cross in 1 Corinthians invades the perception of its hearers, liberating them from the old world with its enslaving system of convictions and ushering them into the new creation revealed by the cross.

Paperback

First published September 5, 2000

Reviews

[Sanjuro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Apocalyptic readings of Paul go back to Schweitzer, and a line can be drawn through Kasemann and Beker, but they really picked up in the 1990s, through Martyn. Most apocalyptic readings are focused on Romans and Galatians, but Brown's book is an early contributor to this important approach in 1 Corinthians. Brown sticks mostly to 1 Cor 1-2, with helpful readings on parts of 15. This is an important contribution to our still developing understanding of Paul as an apocalyptic thinker.

[Doug · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good, helpful focus on some of the "way of the cross" issues in Corinthians. Bit more argument in some places than needed. Still interesting.