Discerning the Spirits Theological and Ethical Hermeneutics in Paul

How did Paul determine ethical and theological truth? Were all believers expected to be able to 'discern the spirits' (1 Corinthians 12.10)? This 2007 study shows that discernment must be understood against the backdrop of an extensive hermeneutic, by which Paul inherently relates ethical and theological knowledge. Understanding the will of God requires noetic and existential transformation, in short, the 'renewal of the mind' (Romans 12.2). Munzinger argues that Paul implies a process of inspiration in which the Spirit sharpens the discerning functions of the mind because the believer is liberated from a value system dominated by status and performance. The love of God enables all believers to learn to interpret reality in a transformed manner and to develop creative solutions to questions facing their communities. For Paul authentic discernment is linked to a comprehensive sense of meaning.

Preface; Abbreviations; Part I. Introduction; 1. The conceptual approach; Part II. What Requires Discernment? The Objects of Evaluation: 2. The discernment of ethical questions; 3. The discernment of spirits; 4. Discerning all things: the structure of Paul's epistemology; Part III. How Can and Should True Discernment Take Place?: 5. The context and background of Paul; 6. How does Paul believe true discernment can and should take place?; Part IV. Conclusion: 7. Recapitualtion and implications for theology; Bibliography; Indices.

The twenty-first century raises complex questions, which require careful discernment. This 2007 study shows Paul believed that those who are transformed by the love of God are renewed in their thinking. Believers are able to interpret reality in a fresh manner and to find creative solutions for their communities.