The relation between church and world/culture in view of the Pauline “as if not” [foreign font omitted]

摘要

In this study, the question is posed whether Paul was of the opinionthat, apart from proclaiming the gospel, the church should beinvolved in cultural matters and even take responsibility forfurthering cultural causes. The study focuses on to Paul's advice tohis readers in 1 Corinthians 7:17-24, and especially 7:29-3I.Concerning the latter passage, the possibility of Stoic influence onPaul is weighed and, although such influence is not ruled outaltogether, it is argued that Paul's advice should rather be seenagainst the background of his expectation of the imminent end ofthe world, as well as his conviction that the believer's union withChrist makes any other relationship or involvement a matter of noconsequence. The final conclusion of the study is that althoughPaul did not advocate asceticism or forbid Christians to take part inworldly matters and institutions, he did not expect them to play anactive role in these things or to promote culture either. On thisbasis, it is concluded that Paul may not be used in support of anyargument in favour of a cultural involvement or responsibility on thepart of the church.