Beschreibung
This study focuses on Paul’s theological
understanding of grace within the framework of benefaction
in ancient Mediterranean world. Amidst various forms of
asymmetrical reciprocal exchange, which permeated social
relationships in these societies, Paul deliberately chose
another path. His theological reflections on
charis, as well as his leadership and social
interactions with his churches, reflect an intentional shift
away from reciprocity to charis, as well as from
euergetism to selfless service. Paul’s theology of
charis introduces a fresh understanding of God who
freely extends his goodness to all in Christ since all his
actions are exclusively motivated by grace, not reciprocity.
Stephan Joubert is Research Fellow, at the
Faculteit der Religiewetenschappen, Radboud University, The
Netherlands; Extraordinary Professor for Contemporary
Ecclesiology at the University of the Free State, South
Africa and Extraordinary Professor for Theology at
theNorth-West University, South Africa.
