Paul and Jesus: How the Apostle Transformed Christianity
In Paul and Jesus: How the Apostle Transformed Christianity, James D. Tabor, a distinguished biblical scholar, explores the pivotal role of the Apostle Paul in shaping the trajectory of early Christianity, fundamentally diverging from the teachings of Jesus and his original followers. Tabor argues that Paul, who never met the historical Jesus, introduced a distinct version of Christianity that diverged significantly from the Jewish-oriented teachings of Jesus, James (Jesus’ brother), and Peter. Drawing on Paul’s letters—the earliest Christian documents—and other early sources, Tabor reconstructs the obscure two decades following Jesus’ crucifixion, a period when the fledgling movement regrouped and began to spread. He highlights how Paul’s mission to the Gentiles (non-Jews) marked a critical shift, as Paul crafted a theology centered on a divine, risen Christ, emphasizing salvation through faith rather than adherence to Jewish law. This approach, Tabor contends, set Paul at odds with the Jerusalem-based apostles, who maintained a more traditional Jewish framework for following Jesus.
Tabor’s analysis delves into the theological and personal tensions between Paul and the Jerusalem church, particularly with James and Peter, who viewed Jesus as a messianic figure within a Jewish context, advocating for Torah observance and a kingdom-focused message. Paul, however, interpreted Jesus’ death and resurrection as a cosmic event, introducing concepts like substitutionary atonement and eternal life through faith, which resonated more with Greco-Roman audiences. Tabor suggests that Paul’s visions of a heavenly Christ, rather than the teachings of the earthly Jesus, informed his gospel, leading to a Christianity that was less about Jesus’ original message of a messianic kingdom and more about spiritual salvation. This theological divergence created friction, as Paul’s Gentile-focused mission did not require converts to adopt Jewish practices, a stance that clashed with the Jerusalem apostles’ insistence on maintaining Jewish identity. Tabor supports this with close readings of Paul’s letters, particularly Corinthians and Romans, and contrasts them with sources like the letter of James and the Didache, which reflect a more Jewish Christianity.
The book also examines the historical context of early Christianity’s emergence from Judaism, emphasizing the scarcity of information about the post-crucifixion decades. Tabor argues that the Book of Acts, often seen as a harmonious account of early Christianity, is a later, idealized narrative heavily influenced by Pauline perspectives, which downplays the conflicts between Paul and the Jerusalem church. He points to evidence that James, as leader of the Jerusalem church, represented a continuation of Jesus’ Jewish teachings, while Paul’s theology—emphasizing a mystical union with Christ and the obsolescence of the Torah—marked a radical departure. Tabor posits that this shift was cemented by the Roman-Jewish War (66-70 CE), which devastated the Jerusalem church, allowing Paul’s version of Christianity to dominate as it spread to Gentile audiences. The Gospels, written later under Pauline influence, further obscured the Jewish roots of Jesus’ movement, solidifying Paul’s legacy as the architect of modern Christianity.
Tabor’s work is praised for its readability and scholarly rigor, weaving a compelling narrative that challenges traditional views of a unified early Christian movement. He presents Paul not as a villain but as a transformative figure whose apocalyptic and mystical theology reshaped Christianity into a religion distinct from its Jewish origins. Critics, such as James D.G. Dunn, note some redundancy and question Tabor’s selective use of texts, but many reviewers commend his ability to make complex theological debates accessible and engaging. Tabor’s approach is marked by a respectful tone, aiming to enlighten both scholars and lay readers about the historical Paul and the competing visions of early Christianity. He also addresses controversial claims, such as Paul’s potential view of himself as a messianic figure, though some argue this overstates the evidence. Overall, the book invites readers to reconsider the origins of Christianity through Paul’s lens, highlighting his lasting impact on Western religious thought.
Paul and Jesus is a thought-provoking exploration that underscores the complexity of Christian origins, challenging readers to confront the differences between Jesus’ teachings and the Pauline Christianity that dominates today. Tabor’s meticulous research, drawing on archaeological insights and textual analysis, paints a vivid picture of a movement fraught with ideological battles. While some of his interpretations, like the theory of Joseph of Arimathea moving Jesus’ body, remain speculative, the book’s strength lies in its ability to provoke reflection on faith and history. Tabor concludes that “Christianity, as we came to know it, is Paul and Paul is Christianity,” urging readers to grapple with the implications of Paul’s transformative role. This work is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the historical and theological dynamics that shaped one of the world’s major religions, offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal period in religious history.
Please note: I review many different sources, but this doesn’t mean that I necessarily agree with or advocate for these positions.
