The First Paul: Reclaiming the Radical Visionary Behind the Church's Conservative Icon - Hardcover

"Paul is one of the most controversial figures in Christian history--and one of the most misunderstood. . . . Many will be thrilled with this fresh, erudite portrait of the man."--Publishers Weekly

"In this scholarly and engaging account . . . Borg and Crossan successfully argue that we must separate the genuine writings of the apostle from the writings attributed to him . . . This well-researched and highly readable account is recommended for all students of Paul [and] interested lay readers.""--Library Journal

"A refreshing and heartening exculpation of a still routinely maligned figure of the first importance to culture and civilization."--Booklist (starred review)

Two top Christian scholars challenge popular depictions of the apostle Paul to convey the actual tenets of his teachings, challenging mainstream beliefs that credit him with supporting early church agendas on such issues as slavery, the subordination of women, and homosexuality.