No two works in the Pauline Epistles resemble each other as closely
as Colossians and Ephesians. Often recognized for their majestic
tone and powerful theological statement, Colossians and Ephesians
also present many challenges of interpretation. Most commentaries
on these letters seem preoccupied with the same few issues,
particularly the question of authorship. As MacDonald addresses
these classic questions, she offers a fresh perspective on
Colossians and Ephesians by making use of insights from the social
sciences. Moreover, by paying attention to subtle differences
between the two letters, she brings their distinct perspectives
into sharp relief.MacDonald highlights the interplay between
Colossians and Ephesians and the social life of New Testament
communities. She illustrates how the texts reflect ancient cultural
values and are influenced by particular aspects of community life
such as worship and household existence. In particular, she
reflects on the issues faced by these communities as they formed
institutions and interacted with the society around them. She shows
the struggles of the New Testament communities to survive and
maintain a distinct identity in first-century society. Chapters
under Colossians are Greeting (1:1-2)," "Thanksgiving for the
Colossians (1:3-8)," "Prayer on Behalf of the Colossians (1:9-14,)"
"The Christ-Hymn (1:15-20),""Application of Hymn to the Situation
in Colossae (1:21-23)," "Paul's Authority in Colossae and Laodicea
(1:24-2:7)," "Debate with the Opponents: The Power of the Risen
Christ (2:8-15)," "Debate with the Opponents: Warnings Against
Ascetic Practices (2:16-23)," "New Life in Light of the
Resurrection (3:1-4)," "Ethical Guidelines for a New Life
(3:5-17)," "The Households of Believers(3:18-4:1)," "Prayer,
Mission, and Contact with Outsiders (4:2-6)," "Conclusion: Personal
Notes and Greetings (4:7-18)." Chapters under Ephesians are
"Greeting (1:1-2)," "Blessing (1:3-14)," "Thanksgiving and Prayer
(1:15-23)," "The Consequences of Life Together with Christ
(2:1-10)," "The Unity of Jews and Gentiles Created by Christ
(2:11-22)," "The Apostle as Interpreter of the Divine Mystery
(3:1-13)," "Prayer and Doxology (3:14-21)," "The Unity of the
Spirit (4:1-16)," "The Sons of Disobedience and the Children of
Light (4:17-5:20)," "The Households of Believers (5:21-6:9),"
"Doing Battle with Evil (6:10-20)," "Conclusion: Personal Matters
and Final Blessing (6:21-24)." Margaret Y. MacDonald is a professor
in the department of religious studies at St. Francis Xavier
University in Nova Scotia. "
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