Paul and His Letter to Philemon

Unlocking the Secrets of Early Christianity: A Deep Dive into Paul and Philemon with N.T. Wright 📚✨

Course Description:

Join renowned New Testament scholar, Professor N.T. Wright, in an enlightening journey through one of the most profound yet often overlooked letters in the New Testament: Paul's letter to Philemon. In this comprehensive online course, you will delve into the rich tapestry of early Christian life and thought as it emerges from just 25 verses.

What You'll Learn:

• Historical Context: Understand the historical and social setting of first-century Christianity against the backdrop of Roman society, where power dynamics and social hierarchies were the norm.

• Paul's Letter to Philemon: Analyze Paul's compelling argument for community, reconciliation, and love over retribution. Discover how this letter presents a countercultural message that still resonates today.

• Comparison with Pliny: Explore an intriguing parallel in the letter of Pliny the Younger to Sabinianus, which addresses a similar issue concerning a runaway slave. Learn how this comparison highlights the stark differences between Paul's and Pliny's approaches to human relationships.

Course Structure:

1. Introduction to Early Christianity: Begin with an overview of the first-century Christian community and the role of letters like Philemon within it.

2. Paul's Letter to Philemon: Dive into the text verse by verse, exploring its themes and applications in a contemporary context.

3. The Letter of Pliny the Younger: Examine this historical letter side-by-side with Paul's letter for a comparative study on attitudes towards slavery and restorative justice.

4. Paul's Countercultural Vision: Discuss how Paul's message in Philemon challenges the status quo, offering a radical vision of community and human dignity.

5. Application and Impact: Reflect on how these ancient letters can inform our modern understanding of relationships, forgiveness, and social justice.

Why Take This Course?

• Gain a deeper appreciation for one of the New Testament's most personal letters.
• Understand the cultural and ethical challenges of the first century and their relevance to today's world.
• Learn from a leading authority on the historical Jesus and the New Testament.

Your Instructor:

Professor N.T. Wright, an internationally recognized expert in New Testament studies, brings his vast knowledge and engaging teaching style to this course. His insights will help you navigate the complexities of Paul's letter and its implications for faith and practice.

Enroll Now and Transform Your Understanding of Early Christianity! 🌟

By enrolling in this course, you're not just studying a historical text; you're engaging with the living legacy of the early Christian movement as interpreted through the lens of one of the most influential New Testament scholars of our time. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and deepen your appreciation for the transformative power of faith in action.