Dr. Clint Burnett discusses his new book, Paul and Imperial Divine Honors. He shares his background journey into biblical studies and his passion for understanding the New Testament text in light of primary sources such as inscriptions, coins, and archaeological sources. Dr. Burnett emphasizes the importance of understanding the diverse and contextual nature of Imperial Divine Honors and challenges the notion of a monolithic imperial cult. The episode also explores the case study of Philippi, a Roman colony, and its impact on the early Christ followers in the region. In this part of the conversation, the focus is on the cities of Philippi, Thessalonica, and Corinth. Each city had its own unique cultural and historical context that influenced the interactions between Christians and the broader society. In Philippi, the city was very Roman and socially conservative, which led to tension when Christians introduced a foreign cult that challenged Roman customs. Thessalonica, on the other hand, was a Greek city that retained its Greekness despite being a seat of provincial power. Christians in Thessalonica faced persecution for proclaiming a new king and a different god, which went against the city's worship of the Roman emperor. In Corinth, a cosmopolitan city with a rich history, the main issue was the lack of distinction between Christian and pagan behavior. Christians were living double lives, engaging in activities that were not in line with their faith. In this part of the conversation, Burnett discusses the use of certain terms in the New Testament, such as 'gospel' and 'Lord,' and their potential connections to the Roman Empire. He cautions against drawing broad comparisons and emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of the cultural context. Burnett also addresses the debate between Tom Wright and John Barclay regarding the political critique in Paul's writings. He suggests that a more balanced approach is needed, considering both Roman and Greek influences, as well as local cultures. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the disruptive nature of the early Christian message and the power dynamics within local communities. Grab your copy of Paul and Imperial Divine Honors: Christ, Caesar, and the Gospel: https://www.amazon.com/Paul-Imperial-Divine-Honors-Christ/dp/0802879853/ref=sr_1_1?crid=15EYVCOU2YIY6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.owPQfbTEDX5dso1KMgipUNX4SlD1v48p9gr06I7g_XMAVGWyNHO2dQOsqCDuU5mxlQd8v2qpIbsktJTbgw8VgKvUzI63izbV5s_S43QGuebaPI-9uLr1knLZT6_1DbF4K-QuV7mueXUEmvfiQHGB2vmYj7YnEtk4bEAxm1PIL-ujzgwzRkLbyg93-OQMAlmaH0c9P8A6WgGkqTSMPcAByE8bsJQg11wY7LIJqxjmfxQ.W5LABxUA7wJwO8Ie2I5PMfgYjQ26aEJ-Ltwfij6X5VE&dib_tag=se&keywords=clint+burnett&qid=1724124227&sprefix=clint+burnet%2Caps%2C172&sr=8-1 Become a member of the Center for Bible Study! 👉 https://give.ministrylinq.com/App/Form/d96bbdb5-197e-4a2d-820c-e3e4e3683e06 Join the Facebook Center for Bible Study Group for ongoing conversation about the Bible, live Q&A sessions, and great community. 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/908391187019803 Follow Dr. Botner on social media Facebook page: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/MABotner/ Twitter: 👉 https://twitter.com/maxbotner/ TikTok: 👉 https://www.instagram.com/drmaxbotner/ Instagram: 👉 https://www.instagram.com/drmaxbotner/