Description: This study seeks to base Paul's language of sin in the socio-cultural context of his original letters. T.L. Carter draws on the work of social anthropologist Mary Douglas to conduct a cross-cultural analysis of the symbolism of the power of sin in the letters, examining thoroughly Douglas' "Grid and Group" model and defending its use as a heuristic tool for New Testament scholars. He also offers fresh insight into key passages from 1 Corinthians, Galatians and Romans.
Brief description: T. L. Carter is Baptist Minister at Leamington Spa Baptist Church.
Review Quotes: "Carter has produced a valuable and largely convincing application of Douglas' grid/group theory to Paul's key letters. His recognition that cosmology is often a product of social dynamics is a fruitful one, and points to promising new directions in Pauline studies." J.R.C. Cousland, University of British Columbia