The Significance of Grace in the Letters of Paul

To determine the importance and function of the concept of grace in the letters of Paul, this book examines «grace texts» that relate to entrance into and continuing existence as a member of the Christian community. Although the focus is not on texts that deal with the relation of the church to Torah, this study points toward answers to questions about Paul's views of the role of grace in relation to the Jewish law. The picture that emerges is one of grace as a vital theme for Paul. This is not simply because grace is a useful part of his arsenal in the battle against reliance on «works of the law,» but because it is a vital part of the past, present, and future life of the believer.