The Word of the Cross: Reading Paul.

Jonathan Linebaugh's book on Pauline theology explores the fundamental aspects of the Pauline gospel and its "grammar." Linebaugh analyzes various Pauline texts, such as Romans 3:21-26, Romans 4, and Galatians 2:20, to uncover the core elements of Paul's gospel. He argues that the righteousness of God is revealed through the cruciform death of Christ, that God's promises go beyond human possibilities, and that the dialectical tension in Galatians 2:20 highlights the gracious action of God in Christ. Linebaugh also examines the relationship between Paul's letters and other early Jewish texts, as well as the interpretations of Luther and Cranmer. The book emphasizes the centrality of justification in Paul's thinking and presents a christocentric and antithetical understanding of the Pauline gospel. Linebaugh's work offers a fresh and comprehensive exploration of Pauline theology, making it a valuable resource for preaching and theological reflection. [Extracted from the article]