Paul's Metaphors: Their Context and Character

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Summary: A Helpful Guide to Understanding St. Paul's Language
Review: St. Paul once said "I try to be all things to all people in hope of saving a few." He was speaking about his methods of evangelization. Something must have worked because he was a great missionary and some of his writings still survive today and are preserved in scripture. One of his strengths was his ability to say things that people would understand. Often he did this comparing Christianity to familiar scenes from daily life in the Roman Empire. St. Paul often sued examples from daily life at home, and life in the city. He referred to athletic events, business transactions, life in the military, and a host of other things. David J. Williams compiles many of these examples and comments on them in his book PAUL'S METAPHORS.

Since the book is filled with information and is somewhat dense, it does not make easy sit down reading, though excerpts could be used for spiritual or inspirational information. This book would be a wonderful aid to anyone with an interest in St. Paul's letters, and it has ample notes for people looking for further study. It will be especially helpful to people who preach and are looking for new angles for homilies and sermons. I found the book especially helpful when preparing Bible Study lessons and the people participating in the group found the Williams' insight enlightening too.