This study shows that the common view of 1 Corinthians as mainly about "ethics" and therefore of little importance for "theology" needs correcting. Many other studies of the letter focus mainly on the details of the Corinthian situation and the moral teachings Paul conveyed to his congregation. While not ignoring these, Furnish's primary aim is to explore and clarify the theological orientation of 1 Corinthians, and what it can contribute to an understanding of Paul as a theologian. Furnish concludes that 1 Corinthians is important for both ethics and theology.

"This small volume is an excellent primer for the student who is beginning a study of Pauline theology and will benefit all students of the Pauline letters."

Choice

"...a careful exposition of 1 Corinthians with perhaps more attention to theological themes than one generally finds in commentaries of this length."

"This is a thoughtful, carefully written book. I plan to have it on my reading list for next semester's course on Paul."

Theology Today

"...an elegant and very readable style...This book is truly multum in parvo."

"...all students - teaching and preaching pastors especially - will benefit from reading attentively this well-wrought work of historically informed theological exegesis."