"Does the apostle Paul have something relevant to say regarding how to live in the twenty-first century? Joshua Jipp argues not only that Paul has something to say about how to live in our world today but also that the apostle offers a powerful vision for human flourishing in our contemporary world. In this interesting analysis, which places Paul in conversation with philosophy and the field of positive psychology, the apostle emerges as a potent resource for humanity's pursuit of the supreme good."-- Lisa M. Bowens , Princeton Theological Seminary"Jipp's book makes a compelling case that Paul is centrally focused on the pursuit of human flourishing and happiness. Throughout his discussion, Jipp draws extensively on both ancient philosophy and contemporary positive psychology in ways that haven't been explored before. The result is a masterful interdisciplinary exploration of Paul's theology as a way of life. Highly recommended!"-- Christian B. Miller , Wake Forest University"With remarkable skill, Jipp shows that even as Paul's thinking about what constitutes the good life is uniquely and inextricably related to Christ, it can also be illuminated through careful comparison to both ancient philosophical and modern psychological efforts to attain true happiness.
"-- Matthew Thiessen , McMaster UniversityPaul is known as a theologian, and indeed his writings yield rich theological insights. But Paul was foremost a missionary and a pastor who wrote to real people and churches.In this fresh approach to Pauline theology, Joshua Jipp brings Paul's pastoral concerns to the fore, specifically his concern for human flourishing in his congregations. Jipp argues that Paul's writings are best understood as invitations to a particular way of life, one that is oriented toward the supreme good of experiencing life in God through participation in Christ. For Paul, Christ epitomizes the good life and enables others to live it. While analyzing Paul's thought through this lens of well-being and flourishing, Jipp introduces conversation partners as points of comparison and contrast. He interacts with ancient philosophy and modern positive psychology, both of which also address "the good life."This substantial contribution to Pauline studies covers issues such as transcendence, suffering and death, relationships, pursuit of Christian virtue, and moral agency.
It will be a valuable resource for all students of Paul.