Discussion Thread_Critical Book Analysis_Kion Bolden
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Feb 20, 2024
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Discussion Thread: Critical Book Analysis
1.
What was the stated purpose of the book Paul's Spirituality in Galatians?
The objective of this written literary resource is to examine Paul's theological model delineating the manner in which a believer ought to live in accordance with and for God.
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McClendon contends that the Apostle Paul articulates several fundamental elements of the Christian life in his Epistle to the Galatians, which, when appropriately apprehended, serve to rectify prevalent misconceptions in contemporary Christian spirituality.
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Therefore, this work undertakes an analysis of Galatians 2:20 with the aim of elucidating how the Scriptures can serve as a guiding framework to delineate the parameters of Christian spirituality.
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2.
What chapter did you select and read?
As part of Adam McClendon's book, "Paul's Spirituality in Galatians: A Critique of Contemporary Christian Spiritualities," I have chosen to read Chapter 3, titled "Continued Tension of the Flesh." This chapter provides valuable insight into the ongoing struggle between fleshly desires and spiritual life, as expressed by the Apostle Paul in his Epistle to the
Galatians. In exploring this tension, it is my desire to gain a deeper understanding of Paul's spiritual teachings and their relevance today.
3.
Did that chapter accomplish the intended purpose of the book? In what ways was the purpose of the book evident or not evident in the chapter you read?
With the stated aim of the book to examine the Apostle's theological framework for spiritual living, McClendon effectively achieves this goal by addressing the inherent tension humanity faces in its pursuit of emulating Christ and living in accordance with God's will. Referencing the words of Jesus to his disciples, "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33 KJV
), McClendon underscores the inevitability of challenges faced by believers. Thus, by acknowledging that the spiritual journey occurs within the realm of earthly existence, the Apostle Paul prompts readers to recognize the ongoing struggle between the influence of the Spirit and the allure of worldly desires.
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Moreover, McClendon recognizes the necessity of the redemptive process to subdue the tension between “The presence of the Spirit of Christ and the pull to indulge ungodly desires,”
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alluding to the persistence of temptation while we are housed in these fleshly bodies. As creations, we are classified as mere flesh but according to D. K. Fletcher, as Christians we are no longer “σάρξ [flesh] but merely ἐν σαρκί [in flesh].”
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Paul wrote, “It is no longer I who live” (Galatians 2:20 ESV
), which is the relinquishment of self-centeredness and autonomy. The believer's life is no longer driven by personal desires or ambitions but is 1
Adam McClendon, Paul’s Spirituality in Galatians: A Critique of Contemporary Christian Spiritualities
(Eugene, OR: Wipf and Stock, 2015), 5.
2
Ibid, xiii.
3
Ibid, 5.
4
Ibid, 76.
5
Ibid, 78.
6
Ibid, 78.
surrendered to the will and purposes of God. He goes on to say, “…but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20 ESV
), which underscores the indwelling presence of Christ in the believer. This signifies a radical union with Christ, where His life, character, and power permeate every aspect of the believer's being. McClendon then dwells on Paul's next words, "And the life I now live in the flesh" (Galatians 2:20 ESV), to emphasize that believers still have a physical existence despite being united spiritually to Christ. Hence, acknowledging the tension between the spiritual reality of union with Christ and the physical reality of life.
In Galatians 2:20, Fletcher suggests that Paul's message is based on his teaching in verse 16, which speaks of a fundamental shift in identity and status through participation in Christ's death and resurrection. As believers, we are united with Christ in His death, which symbolizes
the crucifixion of our old selves and their sinful inclinations. This death with Christ signifies the end of the dominance of the flesh and its condemnation under the law. In its place, believers are raised to newness of life in Christ, characterized by righteousness and spiritual vitality. This new life is not attained through human merit or efforts but is a result of God's grace and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit.
4.
In what ways did interacting with alternative viewpoints help strengthen or weaken the argument being made? (Give a specific example from the chapter where interaction was made with an alternate viewpoint.)
Adam McClendon acknowledges the tension between the spiritual reality of union with Christ
and the physical reality of life by contrasting it with the ideology of John Wesley. While Wesley suggests the potential for believers to attain "entire sanctification,"
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where they are filled with perfect love and no longer struggle with internal temptation,
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McClendon argues that Paul's teachings in Galatians acknowledge the ongoing tension between the presence of the Spirit and the desires of the flesh. In essence, McClendon suggests that while believers strive for spiritual growth and transformation, the reality of living in a fallen world means that
the struggle against temptation and sin persists, even for those who have experienced profound spiritual renewal.
Bibliography
7
Ibid, 85.
8
Ibid.
McClendon, Adam. Paul’s Spirituality in Galatians: A Critique of Contemporary Christian Spiritualities.
Eugene, OR: Wipf and Stock, 2015.
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