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 Paul's 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. Tucker's research makes a significant contribution to the current debate concerning the development of Christian identity."
--William S. Campbell
University of Wales, UK

"Tucker's 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

"Tucker's 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).