Lyle D. Vander Broek

This book presents the life and work of the New Testament's premier missionary, the apostle Paul. It surveys his "pre-Christian life," his conversion and call, and his missionary activities, noting the pivotal events that marked his relationship with the congregations he founded and with the Jerusalem church. Vander Broek focuses on Paul's life and labors but also provides important and relevant discussions of how the life of Paul speaks to Christian faith today. This book will be of much interest to contemporary church groups and individuals who are interested in how the church's most important early missionary continues to impact Christian lives. Questions for discussion are included.

""Citing recent studies that point to a breakdown of community in modern American life, Prof. Vander Broek turns to the advice Paul gave to the ancient Christian community in Corinth that was undergoing remarkably similar problems. Writing principally for pastors and educated lay persons, the author demonstrates how careful attention to a biblical book can yield rich resources for modern church life. Written in a clear and readable style, the book will prove useful to congregations seeking to restore and strengthen the bonds of Christian community."" --Paul J. Achtemeier, Union Theological Seminary (Virginia) ""Vander Broek draws upon his knowledge of both the Corinthian church of the first century and the mainline Protestant churches of the twenty-first century and finds a common thread. Vander Broek recognizes that both Paul and artists of today have a vision of an intimate community beyond the barriers that humans create for themselves. In this book, he brings the work of a first-century Paul and twenty-first-century poets, painters, and writers together and shows us how they attempted to realize their vision of community. It is fresh and though provoking."" --Thomas A. Boogaart, Western Theological Seminary Lyle D. Vander Broek is Professor of New Testament at The University of Dubuque Theological Seminary.

In this useful and accessible book, James Bailey and Lyle Vander Broek discuss the literary and rhetorical forms found in the New Testament. The authors offer definitions and examples of these forms while also helping the reader appreciate the significance of their use for the task of biblical interpretation. This highly readable book will benefit college and seminary students, ministers, and anyone interested in biblical analysis and interpretation.