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Details: Riesner's work is very helpful in the study of Pauline chronology. There are several reasons to buy this book: 1) his clear survey of chronological constructs by other Pauline scholars, 2) his thorough bibliography, 3) his excellent treatment and background study of numerous events in Paul's early ministry, and 4) the clarity, thoroughness, and balance of his arguments. Riesner sets a new standard with this study, and it is very high. It ought to be utilized by all involved in Pauline studies. |
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Details: Riesner contends (and rightly so) that the interpreter's view of the chronology of the early church will influence how the interpreter understands the theology of the early church. With this thought in mind, Riesner seeks to define, with as much supporting evidence as possible, the early chronology of the church, which is essentially a chronology of the early ministry of the Apostle Paul. Riesner begins by surveying contemporary scholarship's contributions (and confusions) over the chronology of Paul's ministry. Two groups in scholarship emerge. One group suggests that Acts is essential to developing a correct chronology of Paul's ministry. Acts is able to do so, since it is essentially accurate in historical details. A second group tries to do with Acts, since Acts (in their view) is essential inaccurate concerning historical details. Riesner points out that nearly everyone depends, at least at some point, upon details in Acts. Riesner recognizes a problem in the chronologies proposed in the literature he surveys: often one or two `absolute dates' are given, and the rest of the chronological details follow from those few established dates. In the next section Riesner seeks to go point-by-point through a chronology of the early ministry of Paul, discussion the evidence at each point for particular events in Paul's life and ministry. He is wary not to merely fit a date into a chronological scheme without providing good support for that date independent of other chronological markers (if possible). Riesner interacts with both conservative and non-conservative literature. The bibliography is massive (80 pages, with approximately 30 sources per page!), and footnotes in the volume indicate that Riesner is, indeed, familiar with the literature. He acknowledges that Acts must be used as an historical source for reaching conclusions concerning a chronology for Paul's ministry. As one example where he isn't afraid to reach a conclusion typically reserved for conservatives, Riesner accepts the South Galatian view for the destination of the letter to the Galatians. In this review's opinion, Riesner has admirably accomplished his purpose. He has constructed a well-supported chronology of Paul's early ministry. This work is only for the serious student or scholar-it is not light reading! Riesner expects that the student knows Greek and other languages, though the work can be read profitably by English-only students. This work is a must-read for New Testament professors and any seminary students doing work on the chronology of Paul's ministry. Without doubt, this book earns a five-star rating. Glenn L. Weaver glweaver@mninter.net Adjunct Professor, Central Baptist Theological Seminary |
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