The Pauline Letters A Rhetorical Analysis

The Pauline Letters: A Rhetorical Analysis by David Oliver Smith, published by Resource Publications on June 17, 2022, offers a detailed examination of the apostle Paul’s letters through the lens of rhetorical analysis. This edition spans 372 pages and is presented in English. Smith reveals his discovery that Paul’s letters are organized into structured literary units characterized by repeated words, phrases, and abstract concepts, which are arranged in chiastic, parallel, or hybrid patterns.

Readers will find that Smith meticulously outlines each literary unit within the seven undisputed letters of Paul, exposing interpolations that disrupt the original structure. By comparing these interpolations with those previously suggested by other scholars, the analysis yields unexpected insights. Additionally, Smith applies his rhetorical technique to the Deutero-Pauline letters, investigating whether they share similar literary attributes with the undisputed letters. This work contributes to the fields of biblical studies and exegesis, providing a fresh perspective on the New Testament writings.