This detailed yet eminently readable description of Paul’s life clearly shows that all sources converge to present a pioneer life: adventurous, unpredictable, nonlinear, full of risks. An analysis of Paul’s place in the development of the Christian church shows that Paul was not a marginal figure, operating out of reaction. He was instead a driven pioneer for a Christianity that is aware of Christ’s kingship, and that realizes it is not a new religion but the fulfillment of the messianic promises made to Abraham. Thus Paul was above all the pioneer for the Messiah, Jesus Christ.

“I read this book with fascination. The author knows how to write in clear and appealing language.” —A. Noordegraaf (Theologia Reformata)

Jakob van Bruggen is research professor of New Testament at the Theological University in Kampen, The Netherlands. He is the author of more than fifteen commentaries and monographs, including Christ on Earth.