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Kenneth E. BaileyIVP Academic / 2011 / Trade PaperbackOur Price$33.494.0 out of 5 stars for Paul Through Mediterranean Eyes: Cultural Studies in 1 Corinthians. View reviews of this product. 2 Reviews
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Milton Jantzen5 Stars Out Of 5This book will take you deeper into God's word!June 12, 2012Milton JantzenQuality: 5Value: 5Meets Expectations: 5Dr. Bailey carefully and fully presents powerful insights into Paul's writing to the Corinthians, showing that the book was intended for all followers of Jesus at all times. His understanding of the writing styles in use at that time opens up deep reservoirs of truth.
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Debbie from ChristFocusHarrison, ARAge: 35-44Gender: female3 Stars Out Of 5Not what I was expectingJanuary 12, 2012Debbie from ChristFocusHarrison, ARAge: 35-44Gender: femaleQuality: 3Value: 3Meets Expectations: 3"Paul Through Mediterranean Eyes" is a very thick commentary on 1 Corinthians. From the title, I expected a book focused on the cultural background of 1 Corinthians that would help us better understand Paul's points. However, the main focus was on the rhetorical style used in 1 Corinthians.
The author carefully constructed charts showing how the 1 Corinthians format matched that of the Old Testament prophets. He claimed that understanding this format would help us better understand the meaning of Paul's words. To be honest, I sometimes couldn't easily see why the sentences were arranged in that format (except that's where they should be to fit the format) and ended up feeling stupid and confused (rather than enlightened) by seeing the rhetorical format laid out. Perhaps those who already have some background in rhetorical styles in the Bible would find it more enlightening.
The author also gave a commentary on the verses. While interesting, his comments didn't stand out to me as memorable nor did I feel like I'd gained new insight into the verses. When the author did mention how Middle Easterners might have understood the verses (so as to increase our understanding), I found it interesting and thought-provoking but rarely enlightening. Also, some of the things he said might explain the verses, but I've read Bible background books that give different explanations that seem to fit the text better.
So, overall, the book contained some interesting information, but I didn't feel like reading it cleared up any potential confusions I had about 1 Corinthians. It was more than it pointed out possible nuances that I might not have otherwise noticed.
I received this book as a review copy from a publicist.
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