Combining historical, exegetical, and theological interests, Bruce Longenecker here dispels the widespread notion that Paul had little or no concern for the poor. Longnecker’s analysis of Greco-Roman poverty provides the backdrop for a compelling presentation of the importance of care for the poor within Paul’s theology and the Jesus-groups he had established. Along the way, Longenecker calls into question a variety of interpretive paradigms—such as Steven J. Friesen’s 2004 poverty scale—and offers a fresh vision in which Paul’s theological resources are shown to be both historically significant and theologically challenging.
Author
Dr. Longenecker specializes in the origins of Christianity, including the following emphases: Early Christianity in its Greco-Roman context; Jesus-devotion in the Vesuvian towns (Pompeii and Herculaneum); the life and theology of Paul; care for the needy among Christian communities of the Greco-Roman world. Dr. Longenecker joined the Baylor faculty in August 2009, having taught previously at St Andrews University (Scotland, 1999-2009), Cambridge University (England, 1995-1999) and Durham University (England, 1991-1995).
- Ph.D. in Theology; University of Durham, England (1986-90).
- M.Rel. in New Testament Studies;Wycliffe College and the University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada (1983-86)
- B.A. in Biblical and Religious Studies; Wheaton College, Illinois, U.S.A. (1979-83)
