Maria Karyakina

The Ethical Meaning of the Christology in Colossians:: Perspectives from a Rhetorical Analysis Maria Karyakina

This dissertation is a detailed analysis of the Epistle to the Colossians. The author uses rhetorical critical methods and recognizes that the New Testament epistles are greatly influenced by oratory. Also, the author demonstrates how rhetorical techniques assist Paul to express his thought that the central idea of Christianity that the divine nature and saving work of Christ has unavoidable ethical implications. In the first chapter of his letter Paul cites Christological hymn; the apostle uses Christological theme during the whole epistle; and he concludes his admonition with the Household code, in which social roles of the member of oikos are interpreted in terms of their relation to Christ. According to Paul?s teaching in Colossians, the power of Christ has universal scope and, consequently, all aspects of human life, including everyday societal relationships, must be brought into submission to Christ.