Die Erwartung eschatologischer Mitherrschaft der Erlösten bei Paulus

Abstract

Paul's statements on God's eschatological reign (Mitherrschaft) and participation in the last judgement transform OT prophetic and apocalyptic traditions. The apostle considers the church in Corinth, which should be comparable to the righteous and holy ones of the Old Testament people of God, in conflict among themselves and in opposition to the world. Both conflicts have their roots in worldly power and human thinking that is completely independent of the creator (omnipotent human beings instead of omnipotent God). Paul enunciates an hierarchical sequence, which on the one hand confirms this possession of the world ("all things are yours": 3,21) and on the other hand subordinates it to the reign of Christ and God. The apostle argues against any kind of liberty and power-centered thoughts, which do not originate in belonging to the crucified Lord. Liberty, property and social peace become humanized only when they are rooted in the wisdom of the cross.