B.J. Oropeza, «Laying to Rest the Midrash: Paul’s Message on Meat Sacrificed to Idols in Light of the Deuteronomistic Tradition », Vol. 79 (1998) 57-68

Some scholars have suggested that Paul's discussion on meat sacrificed to idols in 1 Corinthians 8, 1–11,1 is composed of two separate documents: 8,1–9,23 and 10,23–11,1 form letter B, and 10, 1-22, forms letter A. Unit A is often regarded as an early midrash which was written prior to its present form in 1 Corinthians. This article argues that the Deuteronomic tradition which Paul echoes in 8, 1–11,1 posits another reason why the literary integrity of his entire discussion on idol meats may be maintained. In this section of his letter Paul adopts the Deuteronomic motif of apostasy through idolatry which is prevalent in the Song of Moses (Deut 32). The language and ideas derived from this theme are integrated throughout the apostle's discourse.

covenant by turning to foreign gods (Deut 31,15-16.20). Although the Israelites are God's people and have been assured that God will never forsake them (e.g., 31,8), God declares that he will forsake them when they commit idolatry (Deut 31,16-17; 32,18-20; cf. Isa 8,17; Mic 3,4). Van Ruiten outlines the Song of Moses as follows ¹⁴:

32,1-6:	Introduction and Yahweh's loyalty versus Israel's disloyalty
32,7-18:	Yahweh's mercy in connection with Israel's apostasy
32,19-25:	Yahweh's reaction and judgement against Israel
32,26-36:	Complaint against Israel's enemies
32,37-42:	Results of recompense
32,43:	A call to joy due to judgement

      Although Paul outlines 1 Corinthians 8–10 in a different direction, similar motifs appear: 1) God or Christ is the faithful one who bestows sustenance and spiritual blessings in the face of potential apostasy (9,7-11.17.24–10,11.23-28; cf. 6,12-13); 2) Divine judgement falls upon some of God's people (10,5-10; cf. 5,1-5; 11,27-34); and 3) Paul's warnings serve to remind God's people of the dangers and negative consequences related to idols. Both the Song of Moses and Paul's message in 1 Corinthians 8–10 serve to remind God's people about the implications of breaking their covenant with the one true God to serve idols. In other words, a warning against apostasy may be considered as a leitmotiv in Deuteronomy 32 and 1 Corinthians 8–10, and this aspect is almost categorically overlooked or not properly appreciated by scholars when interpreting Paul's message. Doubtless, Paul's clearest allusion to apostasy in this text is found in section "A" where he describes Israel's rebellion in the wilderness and then relates this to the contemporary problem of idolatry (10,1-22). The Corinthian congregation have separated themselves from their past and are on their way to an eschatological destination; but like the wilderness generation before them, they could fail to reach their "promised land" because of idolatry, related vices, and a lack of self-control.

      The Deuteronomic and Corinthian texts are concerned with the problem of God's elect offering sacrifices to demons (Deut 32,16-17.21.37-39; 1 Cor 10,20-22) ¹⁵. Both defend the monotheistic nature of