Masters Theses

Date of Award

12-2005

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Major

Philosophy

Major Professor

David Dungan

Committee Members

David Linge, Charles Reynolds

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine and characterize Paul’s integrated use of apocalyptic and gnostic imagery as found in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-10 as well as compare and contrast conclusions based on the analysis with long standing theories regarding: (1) the rise of gnosticism as a result of the delay of the Parousia, and (2) the mutual exlusivity of apocalypticism and gnosticism.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:1-10, Paul integrates use of apocalyptic and gnostic imagery. He uses the same apocalyptic imagery as found in Amos and Zechariah, as well as the same gnostic imagery as found in The Apocryphon of James and the Gospel of Truth. In essence, apocalyptic and gnostic imagery appears side-by-side. Although many scholars believe this to be impossible, we see the integrated use of apocalyptic and gnostic imagery in the earliest writing of the New Testament.

Download
Files over 3MB may be slow to open. For best results, right-click and select "save as..."

Included in

Philosophy Commons

Share

COinS