DM838_Lesson_34

In 1981, James D.G. Dunn delivered a lecture titled The New Perspective on Paul.
Dunn's ideas build upon E.P. Sanders' research and Krister Stendahl's earlier work.

Dunn asserts that Paul critiques national righteousness or ethnocentrism, not works righteousness.
The Jewish belief of exclusivity based on the law is challenged; Jews may see themselves as inherently superior to Gentiles.
Dunn argues that the primary issue is sociological, focusing on relationships between Jews and Gentiles rather than soteriological (salvation).

Works of the Law are boundary markers like circumcision, dietary laws, and Sabbath practices that distinguish Judaism.
Dunn posits that Paul's message indicates Gentiles can join God's people without these markers.
The message of the Pauline gospel includes a "backdoor" into Abraham’s family through faith in Jesus.

Stendahl stated there are two paths to God:
- Jews benefit from the law and covenant.
- Gentiles are included through Jesus.
Stendahl emphasizes a "double way" of salvation.

Nicholas Thomas Wright builds on Dunn’s ideas, keeping the same new perspective themes while emphasizing individual salvation aspects.
Wright distinguishes between initial justification (God justifying the ungodly) and final justification (based on one’s entire life).
Initial justification happens by faith, superseding the works of the law.
Final justification denotes what God observes, emphasizing transformative work through the Spirit rather than mere human effort.

According to Wright, assurance in faith hinges not on individual works but on the transformative work of the Spirit throughout life.
Individuals should reflect on their lives for assurance at final judgment, focusing on personal evidence of the Spirit's work.
Wright's stance likens to Augustinian perspectives on justification, differing from Reformation views in certain aspects.

Dunn and Wright have experienced vilification in certain religious circles despite their contributions.
Understanding their backgrounds:
- Krister Stendahl was a Lutheran minister.
- E.P. Sanders, often identifying as agnostic, critiques traditional Judaism.
- James Dunn remains active in Methodist circles, and Tom Wright has held various significant positions, including Bishop of Durham.
Dunn's playful personality adds a human aspect to academic discussions, while his views have evolved over time.

The New Perspective reinterprets Jewish and Gentile relations in the early church, emphasizing communal belonging over personal righteousness in the context of grace.