From Adam to Christ

The publication of these essays in one volume - essays published separately and in diverse contexts over a period of thirty years - is something of an event. Professor Hooker is one of the foremost New Testament scholars currently writing, and Paul is one of her major interests. This collection includes some of her best writing on Pauline ideas and their contemporary significance and may come to be seen as her definitive statement on the apostle who kindles her enthusiasm and admiration. The essays focus in particular on Paul's understanding of human redemption. The author shows that in contrast to Adam, who was created in the image of God, but who lost God's glory, Christ is the true image of God and the embodiment of his glory. Though the Law expressed the purpose of God and reflected his glory its power was incomplete. Several essays explore the theme of 'interchange in Christ', and Professor Hooker puts forward the view that Paul's notion of participation in Christ is the key to understanding his Christology. The term 'interchange', indeed, has come to be associated with Hooker's approach to Paul.