The New Perspective Paper

Perspectives on Paul There has been much contrast seen in Pauline studies between Paul’s gospel and his thoughts on Judaism. By understanding these contrasts and determining what Paul was thinking, readers may be able to better interpret Paul’s letters regarding works of the law, Jew and Gentile relationships, and faith versus works. The two perspectives that will be addressed in this paper include the Old Perspective and the New Perspective. This paper will define what each view presumes, how the views affect our interpretation of Paul, and which perspective I agree with.
The Old Perspective The Old Perspective can also be known as the Traditional Perspective. This perspective entailed a sharp contrast between Paul’s gospel and his Jewish heritage; Paul was opposing Jewish legalism (Gombis, 2010). Legalism is strict, literal, or excessive conformity to the law or to a
Paul included everyone into teachings of Christ and he understood that people from every nation could call upon God. I agree with the New Perspective. I believe that Paul truly understood that he had to step away from the Jewish law that he had come to follow and know so well. He had to turn his life over to God and rely on his faith in Christ Jesus to bring him to the Kingdom of God and to help others get to the Kingdom.
Conclusion
Paul’s thoughts on Judaism have been broken up into two perspectives, which include the Old Perspective and the New Perspective. Paul’s letters could be interpreted differently based on the contrast of the two perspectives. The Old Perspective was based on Paul opposing Jewish legalism, while the New Perspective was based on opposing ethnocentrism. Based on my finding, I have to agree with the New Perspective. It expresses Paul in a more faithful and God centered way.