Classic: Tom Wright meets Tom Holland on St Paul

NT Wright discusses his new book, 'Paul: A Biography', focusing on the Apostle Paul's life, background, and transformative influence on Christianity and Western culture. Wright emphasizes Paul's Jewish upbringing and his ability to navigate the complex cultural mosaic of the Roman world, where he played a crucial role in spreading the message of Jesus. He depicts Paul as a multi-layered character, profoundly understanding the Jewish scriptures while also engaging with Greek and Roman philosophies.

Tom Holland and NT Wright explore Paul's radical message that redefined power dynamics in a society accustomed to Roman authority. This discussion highlights how Paul's concepts of love and service challenged the prevailing norms, which often embraced violence and domination. Paul’s proclamation of a crucified Messiah was subversive and transformative, appealing particularly to the disenfranchised, including slaves and women. Holland reflects on how this subversion allowed for the growth of a new community that transcended ethnic and social divisions.

The podcast delves into why Paul's teachings resonated in the Greco-Roman world and how early Christianity positioned itself as a compelling alternative to existing beliefs. Wright and Holland discuss the community aspects of early Christianity, emphasizing its inclusivity and call for a radical reconfiguration of identity. They note that the promise of forgiveness and love in Christ stood in stark contrast to the transactional relationships typically found in the worship of Roman gods.

As the conversation progresses, Holland and Wright trace the ripple effects of Paul’s ideology throughout history, claiming that his thoughts laid the groundwork for modern concepts of human rights and international law. The notion of universal humanity, that all people are created equal in God's eyes, is examined as a crucial element that has shaped Western moral frameworks, legal practices, and societal structures.