By Philosophy & Empty Deceit: Colossians As Response to a Cynic Critique.

by Troy W. Martin, Stanley E. Porter (Editor)

This book identifies Cynic philosophers as the opponents addressed by the epistle to the Colossians. This identification permits new solutions to old interpretative problems in Colossian studies. In particular, Martin offers a new translation and interpretation of Col. 2.16-23 as well as other problematic passages. Martin contends that the author of Colossians contrasts the hope of the gospel with his opposition's empty deceit and emphasizes important distinctions between Christian ethics and Cynic ethics. The study concludes that Christian ethics as articulated in Colossians transforms societal structures instead of simply rejecting them as Cynic ethics did.

223 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Stephen Sorensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short interesting read into Colossians. The main argument is that the letter was written to cynics who critiqued Christianity and lead their victims away from the truth of the gospel through philosophy and empty deceit.

It was written almost 30 year ago so I'd be curious to see what other scholars have said about this work.