Transformation in Christ: Paul's Experience of the Divine Mystery

Although Paul used language similar to the religions and cultures of his time he had a unique understanding of the mystery of God. The once-hidden plan of God was revealed and fulfilled in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. Saul of Tarsus experienced a fundamental change when he encountered the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus. This vision gave him new direction and purpose and profoundly changed his understanding of Gods plan for humanity. Paul often uses the phrase in Christ or its variations to describe this plan. Being in Christ results in transformation into Christs likeness of holiness and love through the indwelling Holy Spirit. Those in Christ form a new community that crosses ethnic barriers is bound together in fellowship with the Triune God and fulfills its purpose of holiness before him. Pauls answer to the struggles people face is simple: when one is united with Christ by dying to the old self and committing to his supremacy one will find victory over any force opposed to us in this world. This book explores one of the most profound claims in the New Testament that demands a response of its readers. Transformation in Christ is a shining example of solid scholarship with an ecclesial purpose. Ackerman provides us with a well-researched and very accessible Pauline theology which paints a picture of Pauls journey of transformation and his challenge to believers to embrace the now revealed divine mystery of the Spirit-filled new life in Christ. This book is fitting for the student the pastor and the laity for all those desiring to understand Paul better and to live a life of holiness and wholeness in Christ. --Rob A. Fringer Nazarene Theological College In these pages Ackerman leads us step by step through the intricacies of scholarly discussions--expressed in accessible language--to an understanding of what it means to be in Christ that both incorporates and goes beyond these cognitive elements to matters of the heart. --Darin H. Land Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary David A. Ackerman is a minister in the Church of the Nazarene education specialist in Asia-Pacific adjunct professor at various international colleges and seminaries and author of 1 & 2 Timothy/Titus (2016) in the New Beacon Bible Commentary series and Lo I Tell You a Mystery (2006).