The Dictionary of Paul and His Letters is a one-of-a-kind reference work. No other resource presents as much information focused exclusively on Pauline theology, literature, background, and scholarship.
This second edition is a thoroughly revised and updated version of the acclaimed 1993 publication. Since that groundbreaking volume was published, developments in Pauline studies have continued at a rapid pace, with diverse new scholars entering the conversation, new ideas and methods gaining attention, and fresh expressions of old topics shaping the present discussion. Those who enjoyed and benefited from the wealth in the first edition will find this new edition an equally indispensable and freshly up-to-date companion to study and research.
Classic topics such as Christology, justification, hermeneutics, and book studies of individual epistles receive careful treatment by specialists in the field. Topics new to this edition—including Paul and politics, patronage, and interpretations from various historical and cultural perspectives—expand the volume's breadth and usefulness. Over 95% of the articles have been written specifically for this edition.
This work bridges the gap between scholars and pastors, teachers and students, and all interested readers who want a thorough treatment of key topics in a summary format. In curating and compiling these articles, the editors have sought to make them comprehensive, accessible, and useful for those pursuing further research on particular subjects. Each article's bibliography, in addition, will serve a new generation of readers for years to come.
The updated Dictionary of Paul and His Letters takes its place alongside the Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels, 2nd ed., and the other volumes in the IVP Bible Dictionary Series as a unique presentation of the fruit of biblical studies—committed to Scripture, using the best of critical methods, and maintaining dialogue with both contemporary scholarship and the challenges facing the church. The reference volumes in the series provide in-depth treatment of biblical and theological topics in an accessible encyclopedia format, including cross-sectional themes, methods of interpretation, significant historical or cultural background, and each Old and New Testament book as a whole.
Reviews
"I remember, when I was a student writing exegesis essays, making frequent use of the 1993 Dictionary of Paul and His Letters. The study of Paul has changed enormously in the three decades since that volume was published. But McKnight, Cohick, and Gupta, with their excellent team of contributors, have now brought the whole discussion up to date for a new generation of students, clergy, and laypersons." - Matthew V. Novenson, University of Edinburgh
"Rather than an update, the second edition of The Dictionary of Paul and His Letters is a completely new work that draws on the expertise of a diverse group of male and female scholars writing from a variety of hermeneutical perspectives. Academic but accessible essays summarize theological (e.g., law, grace, justification) and cultural (e.g., adoption, sexuality, women) topics from a Pauline perspective. So many interesting entries! An outstanding resource." - Sandra L. Glahn, Dallas Theological Seminary
"The publication of this new edition of the Dictionary of Paul and His Letters brings to students, pastors, and scholars fresh, up-to-date orientation to Paul, Paul's letters and theology, and numerous key issues in the contemporary study of Paul. A signal achievement and wonderful gift to all readers of Paul! I will be keeping this volume handy as well as recommending it widely." - Joel B. Green, senior professor of New Testament interpretation at Fuller Theological Seminary
"A staple of syllabi and a first stop for research, the original Dictionary of Paul and His Letters became a fixture in the landscape of Pauline studies. Much has changed in the past three decades, and this completely new dictionary, with contributions from no less than 141 scholars, provides an authoritative overview of the present state of Pauline scholarship. From Abraham and Adam to worship and wrath, and from classic theological topics to matters of pressing contemporary concern, the broad coverage of this remarkable project will be welcomed by novice student and seasoned scholar alike." David Lincicum, University of Notre Dame
"For thirty years, the Dictionary of Paul and His Letters has provided readers with informed and scholarly introductions to key areas in the study of Paul from a broadly evangelical perspective. This new and thoroughly revised edition will bring today's readers up to date with this vibrant, important, and diverse field of study; it will again prove to be an invaluable resource." David G. Horrell, University of Exeter, UK
"Students of Paul will welcome this updated version of InterVarsity Press's Dictionary of Paul and His Letters. Here, in a single volume, they will find accessible articles dealing with an impressive spectrum of topics related to the apostle's life and writings, authored, in a number of cases, by the expert on the subject. Ample bibliographies will more than satisfy readers who wish to pursue a particular subject further. The editors are to be commended on the completion of a massive and most worthwhile undertaking." - Stephen Westerholm, professor emeritus of early Christianity, McMaster University
"Thirty years after the publication of the Dictionary of Paul and His Letters, this new edition offers a comprehensive resource in one volume that will be the standard for another generation. Articles engaging issues that have emerged in recent years will be a valued resource, and the bibliographies are a treasure for professors and students." - James W. Thompson, professor of New Testament at Abilene Christian University
"The revised Dictionary of Paul and His Letters is the premier address for any student and scholar of Paul looking for up-to-date introductions and informed discussions of all matters relevant to Pauline studies. It is the most comprehensive collection of excellent articles on Paul and his writings by a superb selection of stellar scholars." - Volker Rabens, Friedrich Schiller University in Jena, Germany
Scot McKnight (PhD, University of Nottingham) is Julius R. Mantey Chair of New Testament at Northern Seminary. in Lombard, Illinois. He is the author of many books, including Reading Romans Backwards, Pastor Paul, The King Jesus Gospel, and commentaries on James, Galatians, and 1 Peter. He is also the coeditor of the Story of God commentary series.
Lynn H. Cohick (PhD, University of Pennsylvania) is provost and dean of academic affairs at Northern Seminary, where she also teaches New Testament. Her books include Christian Women in the Patristic World and commentaries on Ephesians and Philippians.
Nijay K. Gupta (PhD, New Testament, University of Durham) is a professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary. Previously, he was a professor of New Testament at Portland Seminary, where he also oversaw the Master's thesis program, and advises doctoral students. He is the author of the book Worship That Makes Sense to Paul and Prepare, Succeed, Advance: A Guidebook for Getting a PhD in Biblical Studies and Beyond along with Bible commentaries and over a dozen academic articles in theological journals.
