The problem of cultural conflict in congregations has been a serious challenge to the church throughout its history. Many approaches to tackling the problem of cultural intolerance and tensions have been quite pragmatic in nature, without the presence of a solid biblical foundation or pastoral model. In this book Paul's approach as a slave-leader, emptying himself in analogy of Christ's own kenosis, is thoroughly discussed and posed as a biblical approach and solution to handling this very complex and contentious issue in churches, especially in the context of Botswana. Dissertation. (Series: Theology in Africa, Vol. 7) [Subject: Religious Studies, Christanity Studies]

Douglas Campbell has made a name for himself as one of Paul’s most insightful and provocative interpreters. In this short and spirited book Campbell introduces readers to the apostle he has studied in depth over his scholarly career. Enter with Campbell into Paul’s world, relive the story of Paul’s action-packed ministry, and follow the development of Paul’s thought throughout both his physical and his spiritual travels. Ideal for students, individual readers, and study groups, Paul: An Apostle’s Journey dramatically recounts the life of one of early Christianity’s most fascinating figures—and offers powerful insight into his mind and his influential message.

This volume has 1 and 2 Corinthians as its main focus where the various contributors address significant aspects of text, language, background, theology and exegesis. The first part of the volume deals with the issues of textual criticism and traditions available to Paul, while the second section is interdisciplinary in nature and integrates different methodologies such as social-scientific and rhetorical criticism in order to provide new insights into the text. The third and longest section addresses the varied theological problems which the community raised with Paul, including sexual matters, the timing of the resurrection the resurrection body, authority and headship, soteriology, and the question of Paul's faithfulness and integrity. The final section concentrates on the identity of Paul's opponents, his visions and apologetics.

Churches often find themselves in the middle of conflict. These conflicts can exist between people within the church, between the leaders and congregation, or even between churches themselves. Leaders often turn to Scripture for guidance in resolving these conflicts. However, the Bible does not outline or even discuss conflict management. In fact, various biblical figures—from ancient Israelite kings to New Testament apostles—all uniquely approach conflict. Does the Bible have a “theory of conflict management”? In Conflict Management and the Apostle Paul, the authors explore how Paul approached conflicts with his close associates like Barnabas and Peter, and with his mission churches like those in Galatia and Corinth. Conflict Management and the Apostle Paul distinctively sketches how various theories of conflict management used today shed light on Paul’s own approaches to conflict while also evaluating the conflicts themselves. The authors in this volume are pastors and church workers who themselves bring their own experiences with conflict into play as they seek wisdom from the New Testament.

Deacons:The diakon-words in the New Testament and the ministry of the deacon offers an in depth analysis of the concept of `deacon' in the New Testament and its significance for present day congregational practices. The essence and content of the service of the deacon within the community of God forms the focus of the study. Significant passages in the New Testament are considered in fine exegetical manner to determine the guidelines offered within the context of these NT texts. In this way different perspectives are highlighted that enrich the overall understanding of the concept of `deacon'. Obviously, this challanges some of the views held on this topic (that even influence the way several churches organise their diaconal service) and suggests some novel ideas related to the topic. Certain focal points are described, for instance, the centrality of the covenant and Kingdom in exercising diaconal service, or the interrelatedness of koinonia, diakonia and worship. This book offers a rich and responsible study of the concept of deacons in congregations, both on theoretical and practical levels. Prof Dr Jan van der Watt

This book provides Pentecostals with the necessary equipment and motivation to contribute to one of Africa's important ethical challenges, LGBTIQ+ people and Africa's homophobic reaction to them. The study is aimed at Christian believers and pastors, to empower them with relevant information about the issue. The issue is discussed in terms of existing biological, psychological, anthropological, sociological, philosophical and queer theory knowledge, along with a study of the biblical texts, in order to answer the question, what should a responsible African Pentecostal response be towards the LGBTIQ+ issue, and what should Pentecostals' attitude be towards such people?