Bruno Blumenfield examines the political Paul, arguing that to neglect this dimension of Paul's thought decontextualizes him and falsifies our reading of his works. He argues that Pauline theology cannot be fully understsood or appreciated without knowledge of the political theories of Hellenism. The Political Paul explores his dimension of Paul's thought within the general context of Hellenistic political reflection and focuses on the intriguing body of literature known as the Pythagorean pseudepigrapha. This research supports the highly original argument that Paul uses Hellenistic kingship theories to construct a political theory for Christianity. Yet although Paul inherits Hellenistic traditions he also transforms them. This study addresses this play of continuity and transmutation. By grounding Pauline Christianity in Hellenistic political theory in general, and in the theory of Hellenistic monarchy in particular, the work also provides a new explanation for the success of Christianity.
