Corpus-Paul

["John M. Contabile II" <jcontabile AT earthlink.net>]

Brian,

I would have to side with Schweitzer's views with regard to one of the main 
themes presented by Paul regarding life in Christ.  I have not read the 
work by Schweitzer that you cited, but from my understanding of Paul, he is 
clearly championing a life of troubled servanthood for the sake of Christ 
and his gospel.

Regarding 2 Cor. 12:1-10, I would say that if Paul is calling others to 
appropriate anything it would be weakness.  Paul's other grand experiences 
which he alludes to are not what he would expect to be a normal part of the 
Christian life.  But a life of weakness, yes, this seems to be clearly 
parenetic, if not clearly here, then in 13:4 and in other letters.

Another place that came to mind as I initially read your question was 1 
Thess. 1:6.  Here too, Paul seems to be indicating sufferings/trials are 
normal for apostles as well as every follower of Christ.


John Contabile
Covina, CA
jcontabile AT earthlink.net

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"History is written by those 
who have hanged heroes."