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.

lowship, and the "faithful God" are probably some more areas in which Paul intends to correct a misperception on the congregation's part. At least some of the members possessed a false sense of eschatological immunity (4,7-8; 10,1-12) ¹⁹. They likely considered themselves as spiritually perfected in the final eschaton through their baptism, enthusiasm in the Spirit, and eucharistic fellowship in Christ. They did not take seriously the dangers related to idol meats. As such, Paul warns them that their election and spiritual privileges provide no guarantees against divine judgement: if God destroyed many of the Israelites in the wilderness, God will not spare the strong in Corinth (1 Cor 10,11-12). Nevertheless, the faithful God will make a way for them to escape temptation if they flee from idolatry in 10,13-14. If God's faithfulness in this passage resonates to the rock motif in the Song of Moses, it confirms that this section is interrelated with some of the major themes in the letter.

Apostasy in Paul's Argument Regarding ei0dwlo/qutoj

      We have uncovered the motif of apostasy through idolatry which Paul adapts from the Deuteronomic text. The remainder of this article will focus on the coherence of 1 Corinthians 8,1–11,1 in relation to idol meats, idolatry, and apostasy. How have scholars attempted to resolve the tension between idol meats and idolatry in this discourse? Bruce Fisk summarises the position held by the majority of scholars and a second position held by Gordon Fee. He correctly gets to the heart of the issue: the majority, in essence, argue that Paul primarily focuses on marketplace idol meats that were previously used in idol worship (1 Cor 8,1-13; 10,23–11,1), and secondarily, pagan temple worship (1 Cor 10,1-22). Fee, on the other hand, argues that 8,1-13 and 10,1-22 focus on pagan temple worship, and 10,23–11,1 emphasises marketplace idol meat ²⁰. While Fisk recognises Fee's contribution to the Corinthian situation and the problems Fee raises regarding the majority view, he criticises Fee's position on several points, including his interpretation of ei0dwlo/qutoj ²¹.