Acknowledgements
Although I am the writer of this work, there is a sense in which I feel that credit as author is not entirely deserved, owing to the significant intellectual influence and contributions of others.
First, I must thank my doctoral supervisor, Dr. Willi Braun. Many years ago, in an Introduction to the New Testament course, Dr. Braun instilled in me a way of thinking about the New Testament (and religion in general) that was entirely new to me. Since then, Dr. Braun has continued to give me the benefit of his wisdom, kindness, encouragement, and exposure to his congenial yet rigorous scholarly “attitude.” Dr. Braun’s influence on this work cannot be overstated, and I am tremendously fortunate to have had such an amazing human being as a supervisor and intellectual mentor. I am indebted to him in a way that can never be repaid.
A second influence of immeasurable import to me has been Dr. Robert Burch. Having taken a number of philosophy courses with Dr. Burch, it is acutely evident to me, upon reflection, that his vast erudition and penchant for incisive criticism have had a marked impact on my own intellectual development. Moreover, there are several parts of this work, particularly those relating to philosophical themes, that are the express product of Dr. Burch’s suggestions or criticisms. I should add here that his contributions on this front are easily identified: anything that the reader finds wrong with this work, or disagrees with, is most assuredly connected somehow to Dr. Burch. Conversely, any of the most cogent and compelling arguments are solely my own, and reflect instances where my thinking was allowed to flourish, unfettered by Dr. Burch’s incessant meddling. (I trust my facetiousness here is obvious—I am of course truly grateful to Dr. Burch in countless ways).
In addition to these two, I wish to express gratitude to a number of others who have, in some way or another, contributed to the development or completion of this work: Dr. William Arnal, Dr. Charles Barbour, Dr. Zeba Crook, Dr. Jeffrey Dudiak, Dr. Ryan Dunch, Dr. John Harris, Dr. John Kitchen, Dr. Francis Landy, Dr. Wayne Litke, Dr. Paul Paton, and Dr. Lorne Zelyck.
I also owe very special thanks to a couple of peers, Dr. Mark Wheller and Dr. Glen Fairen, whose own doctoral research interests intersected at certain points with mine, resulting in much productive discussion (perhaps more for me than them). I would also be remiss if I did not acknowledge the vital contributions of three individuals: Preston Norris, Jason Norris, and Everett Norris. The contents of this work are in no small part rooted in the countless discussions we had over the years on topics relating to religion, early Christianity, and especially Paul.
Last, but not least, I owe an immense amount of gratitude to Angela, Kylan, Logan, and Rory, as well as my parents, brothers, and all of my other family who have offered endless support during the time in which this work was written. I am grateful to all of you.