P. Richard Choi

The Figure of Adam in Romans 5 and 1 Corinthians 15

Biblical Studies & Commentaries

“This book is a significant contribution to understanding how Paul brings together theological and ethical concerns. Legarreta-Castillo sets Paul’s use of the image of Adam in the larger context of Jewish interpretations of Adam. He shows how Paul used the figure of Adam and contrasted it with the figure to Christ both for theological purposes and to draw social and ethical consequences. For Paul, the antithesis between Adam and Christ illustrates the contrast between the old and the new creation and how believers must undergo an ethical assimilation to Christ, the last and heavenly Adam, in order to participate in the eschatological resurrection." —Thomas H. Tobin Loyola University Chicago "In this groundbreaking work that offers a panoramic view of the debate on the origins of the Adam motif in Paul, Legarreta-Castillo draws compelling conclusions from his careful reading of Second Temple sources, and forces us to take a fresh look at 1 Corinthians 15 and Romans 5. This book is the fruit of thorough research, a careful reading of a plethora of primary sources, and balanced reflection—a must-read for anyone interested in understanding how Paul came up with his views on Adam.”