You Belong to Christ: Paul and the Formation of Social Identity in 1 Corinthians 1-4

Synopsis: You Belong to Christ explores the way that the Apostle Paul sought to form the social identity of one of his most important Christ-following communities. It sheds light on the way various social identities function within the Pauline community and provides guidance concerning the social implications of the gospel. Drawing from contemporary social identity theories as well as ancient source material J. Brian Tucker describes the way 1 Corinthians 1-4 forms social identity in its readers so that what results is an alternative community with a distinct ethos in contrast to the Roman Empire and its imperial ideology. This book contends that previous identities are not obliterated in Christ but maintain their fundamental significance and serve to further the Pauline mission by means of social integration. Providing a comprehensive survey of Christian identity in Pauline studies as well as an interesting look into the material remains of Roman Corinth this volume provides a social-scientific reading of 1 Corinthians 1-4 and argues that Pauls strategy was to form salient in Christ social identity in those to whom he wrote. Endorsements: In this excellent study Tucker argues for the continuing relevance of gentile identity in Christ. He demonstrates that being in Christ rather than replacing existing identities is intertwined with these in a transforming process. His use of various social identity theories leads to illuminating new insights into identity formation in the early Christ-movement in which Paul is creatively involved. Tuckers research makes a significant contribution to the current debate concerning the development of Christian identity. --William S. Campbell University of Wales UK Tuckers use of multiple methodologies with a fresh utilization of identity construction studies produces a powerful reading of 1 Corinthians 1-4. Beyond the notable accomplishment of drawing insights from methodologies that are often set at odds Tucker proves the value of his work by shedding important new light on the theological argumentation and message of 1 Corinthians. --Jerry L. Sumney Lexington Theological Seminary Tuckers extensive treatment of social identity theory offers a helpful alternative perspective to much scholarship addressing Christian identity suggesting that Paul urged a hierarchy between the different aspects of the Corinthians identity: the Christian gentile and Corinthian civic. Their new identity in Christ should influence but does not replace existing aspects of their identity. --Andrew Clarke University of Aberdeen UK Author Biography: J. Brian Tucker is Associate Professor of New Testament at Moody Theological Seminary in Plymouth Michigan. He is co-editor with Kathy Ehrensperger of the book Reading Paul in Context: Explorations in Identity Formation: Essays in Honour of William S. Campbell (2010).