Paul's Critique of Theocracy offers an interpretation of select texts in Corinthians and Galatians concerned with the establishment of legitimate authority in the Christian community. Odell-Scott argues that for Paul, no one may boast that they are selected by God, and no one has the authority to rule as God's representative.


Paul also criticizes those who exhibit a superior "sacredness" over other community members. Contrary to most scholarly views, Odell-Scott argues that Paul is not taking sides in a debate about the proper authority structure. Rather, he criticizes any...

This book offers deconstructive readings of classical texts from the Christian tradition. Working within a Heideggerian model of the "end of metaphysics," David Odell-Scott offers readings that radically alter the conventional understanding of the Chalcedonian Creed and of portions of I and II Corinthians. His deconstruction of metaphysical theology both clarifies the logical impasse of the incarnation expressed in the Creed and sets Pauline thought against not only metaphysical thought but monotheism and a patriarchal church as well.