Agency as a Theory of Action: A Conversation in Pauline Studies and Analytic Philosophy

Abstract

The 2006 publication of Human and Divine Agency in Paul and His Cultural Environment, edited by John M. G. Barclay and Simon J. Gathercole, has renewed scholarly attention to questions about agency. In connection with these recent developments in Pauline studies, this article argues, first, that the concept of “agency” remains unperfected among biblical scholars. Second, we engage with the action theories of G. E. M. Anscombe and Donald Davidson. Here we propose that their focus on two concepts—intention and reasons for actions—will contribute to critical analyses of agency as expressed in biblical texts. Third, we bring analytic philosophy into conversation with Troels Engberg-Pedersen’s I-X-S model and J. Louis Martyn’s agent-centered perspective. Fourth, we apply our theoretical model of agency to biblical exegesis by interacting with a selected Pauline text, Rom 7:7–25.