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This detailed yet eminently readable description of Paul's life and theology clearly depicts the life of a pioneer: adventurous, unpredictable, nonlinear, full of risks. In part 1, Jakob van Bruggen, a New Testament scholar of international renown, describes the course of Paul's remarkable life. In part 2, van Bruggen discusses the place Paul occupies in the church's historical development. Paul was no marginal or reactionary figure, but someone driven by a profound awareness of Christ's kingship. He realized that the Christian faith was not a new religion, but the fulfillment of the messianic promises made to Abraham. Thus Paul was, above all, a pioneer for the Messiah. Van Bruggen presents Paul's life, letters, and historical position as an integrated whole. In addition, he supplies maps, figures, and chronological charts to help readers gain a clearer perspective on the 'moving target' that was the apostle Paul.
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