Paul’s Theology of Preaching in 1 Corinthians 1–4 from the Perspective of Apocalyptic Eschatology

Even though scholars widely affirm the importance of eschatology in theology and recognize the unmistakable rise of apocalyptic eschatology in Pauline studies, how that affects Paul’s theology of preaching in 1 Corinthians 1–4 has yet to be researched. This dissertation draws upon Pauline studies about apocalyptic eschatology to argue that apocalyptic eschatology functions as a key framework for understanding Paul’s theology of preaching in 1 Corinthians 1–4, revealing that, for Paul, preaching proclaims the inbreaking of the Christocentric kingdom and transforms through the power of the Holy Spirit. To that end, the study begins with some preliminary considerations, that Paul teaches about preaching in 1 Corinthians 1–4 (chap. 2) and that apocalyptic eschatology shapes part of Paul’s theological perspective in 1 Corinthians (chap. 3). Having shown that apocalyptic eschatology stands at the forefront of Paul’s mind when writing 1 Corinthians, I then reexamine Paul’s theology of preaching in the second section to gain a fresh understanding of the significance of eschatology in preaching. In chapters 4 and 5, I argue that apocalyptic eschatology shapes the content and form/manner of preaching (respectively) by addressing the motifs found in apocalyptic eschatology. In chapter 5, additionally, I show that the role of the Spirit extends beyond mere illumination during the preparation and delivery of sermons. Finally, I conclude with some remarks about the significance of eschatology in preaching. The goal does not necessarily involve convincing readers that eschatology must be a section at the end of every sermon; rather, it seeks to ensure that preachers allow eschatology to shape their messages to avoid the dangers of preaching without eschatology in mind.

Grantor dc:publisher

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Year dc:date.issued

2026

Author dc:creator

• Hong, Nathan Kisung

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• York, Hershael W.

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10392/7646

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.sbts.edu:10392/7646