Matthias Reinhard Hoffmann Books

Matthias Reinhard Hoffmann identifies an angelomorphic portrait of Christ in certain passages of Revelation and provides possible reasons for the inclusion of an angelomorphic Christology: Angelomorphic Christology is not regarded as an isolated christological concept. In turn, the author compares angelomorphic Christology with the prominent Lamb Christology of Revelation. A comparison of these concepts reveals that both Lamb and angelomorphic Christology serve the purpose of contrasting different functions of Christ. The functions correspond with the implied perception of Christ by his followers on the one hand and his opponents on the other. Accordingly, Christ appears to be an eschatological juridical figure (described in angelomorphic patterns) to his opposition, while he is perceived as salvific redeemer (in form of the Lamb) by those who believe in him. Such a christological perspective draws on traditions from the Exodus narrative, namely the features of the Passover Lamb and the Destroying Angel. Further, equality between God and Christ is established despite an angelomorphic portrait of Christ: especially those passages describing Christ as the Lamb put him on par with God. But also within visions with an angelomorphic description of Christ, his status as superior to angels and as an equal to God is displayed.

Nach wie vor gilt der Apostel Paulus zu Recht als die herausragende Person des frühen Christentums. Die wissenschaftliche Diskussion über den auch streitbaren wie umstrittenen Theologen und Missionar hält ungebrochen an. Der Band vereint Studien anerkannter Fachleute, die einzelnen Aspekten des Lebens, Denkens und Wirkens des Paulus nachgehen sowie seine Rezeption im nachpaulinischen Schrifttum des Neuen Testaments untersuchen. Mit dem Band grüßen Autoren und Herausgeber Dieter Sänger, Professor für Theologie- und Literaturgeschichte des Neuen Testaments an der Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel.