Agape, Eros, Gender: Towards a Pauline Sexual Ethic

Description

Issues of gender and sexuality have recently come to the fore in all humanities disciplines, and this book reflects this broad interdisciplinary situation. It focuses on issues of gender and sexuality (eros) in the light of the comprehensive divine-human love (agape) which, for the New Testament, lies at the heart of Christian faith and practice. The intention is to outline a distinctively Christian understanding of the male/female relationship reflecting the priority of agape over eros. Key Pauline texts are read alongside modern texts by Virginia Woolf, Freud and Irigaray.

'This is a highly original project. Francis Watson has succeeded in carving out a very distinctive niche for himself in biblical studies and has established himself as an important voice in contemporary theological and hermeneutical debate.' Stephen Moore, University of Sheffield 'I know of nothing that does what this book sets out to do, nor at the level of sophistication which Francis Watson achieves. The book will be of great interest to biblical interpreters, Christian ethicists, feminist scholars, and hopefully a wider academic audience interested in the interpretation of sexuality in the western tradition.' Stephen Barton, University of Durham '... a magnificent early dividend ... its theological appeal is undeniable. Watson sets a new standard for New Testament theology in our generation.' Expository Times 'Watson's Agape, Eros, Gender probably represents the most pervasively theological interpretation of biblical texts available ... An impressive and invaluable illustration of what theological interpretation might look like.' Philip Esler, Journal of Theological Studies 'It is a stimulating and often challenging read that will appeal especially to all those interested in ideas whether in the fields of ethics, gender studies, psychology or theology.' Theology 'This is an important and absorbing book. Its considerable exegetical sections are refreshing and challenging.' Evangelical Quarterly