The Hermeneutics of the New Perspective on Paul

Abstract

For the past three decades, New Testament scholars from virtually every denomination (both conservative and liberal) have championed or been influenced by the so-called New Perspective on Paul. This movement has brought a new interpretation to several key elements of Paul’s theology. Pastor Daniel Waldschmidt of Burlington, Wisconsin, speaks on what is meant by the New Perspective. He points out why it is not the result of proper biblical interpretation and will show how it undermines Scripture’s chief teaching of justification by faith alone. As WELS pastors minister in an American theological context that continues to wander farther from justification by faith alone, it is important for our pastors to be aware of what a gem we still possess in this teaching so that we may highlight it in all its pristine beauty to a world that is increasingly unfamiliar with it and desperately in need of it.