Honor, Rhetoric and Factionalism in the Ancient World: 1 Corinthians 1-4 in Its Social Context

Abstract

This essay suggests that the central element of the factionalism and strife evident in 1 Corinthians 1-4 is the lust for honor by members of the early Christ-movement at Corinth. While the last few decades have seen a proliferation of social-scientific approaches to biblical interpretation, many demonstrating the centrality of issues of honor and shame, the letter of 1 Corinthians has remained largely untouched by issues related to honor. Yet it presents a unique exposé of numerous and vital aspects of social life in the Greco-Roman world. By analyzing the issues of factionalism and rhetoric within the social context of the time, and doing so within the framework of the central import of honor, it is hoped that the essay provides an appropriate and compelling framework within which to view this section of Paul’s letter.