Suffering in Paul: Perspectives and Implications - Paperback

by Siu Fung Wu (Author), Michael J. Gorman (Foreword by)

One can hardly ignore the significance of suffering in Paul's letters. Respected scholars (e.g., Scott Hafemann, Christiaan Beker, and Ann Jervis) have demonstrated the indispensable role of suffering in Paul's teaching. Despite that, the topic does not often "hit the headlines" in Pauline studies. Meanwhile, Christians around the world testify to the encouragement and comfort Paul gives them in times of pain and distress. The purpose of this book is to arouse interest in Pauline scholarship on the topic and provide a resource for educators, theological students, and thoughtful pastors. New Testament scholars in five countries across three continents contribute to this volume. They study the texts, intertexts, and the language of suffering in Paul. They explore the notion of participation in Christ's suffering and glory, and examine the significance of identity formation and solidarity in the Christ community. In addition, the authors reflect on the implications for the church today from different social locations and cultural backgrounds. The result is an exegetical and critical reflection that invites the church to seriously engage with Paul on the topic. Contributors: Sunny Chen, Roy Ciampa, Timothy Gombis, Sanyu Iralu, Haley Goranson Jacob, Kar Yong Lim, David Starling, Sean Winter, Siu Fung Wu, and Xiaxia Xue.

Author Biography

Siu Fung Wu is Lecturer in New Testament Studies at Whitley College and Honorary Research Associate at University of Divinity, Australia. He received his MPhil from Trinity College, University of Bristol, UK, and PhD from University of Divinity. He was a factory worker in East Asia and a software developer in Australia before becoming a pastor in an inner-city church. He also worked in aid and development. He is the author of Suffering in Romans (Pickwick, 2015).