A Pauline Theology of Justification

“For centuries, we Protestants have staked a claim to the doctrine of justification and to the letters of Paul on which it is based. But, in truth, there is no Protestant monopoly on either, as James Prothro’s profound Catholic Pauline theology of justification amply demonstrates. The wealth of exegesis and theology in this book will profit readers of all stripes.”


—Matthew V. Novenson, University of Edinburgh





“What a welcome and wonderful contribution Prothro has offered us! His work has relevance, not only for ecumenical dialogue, but much more broadly for the reception of Paul and his message for our time. This work abounds in thoughtful, provocative, and often persuasive judgments, from which all readers will profit. Even for one who finds the totality of faith in Christ and the totality of Christ in faith, this work is instructive and valuable.”


—Mark A. Seifrid, Concordia Seminary





“As a fundamental Pauline teaching and an ecumenical theological concern with great significance for the church, the doctrine of justification always needs a fresh examination. James Prothro provides just that. Thoroughly conversant with ancient sources and the history of interpretation, Prothro’s reading of justification in terms of legal ‘contention,’ as multidimensional, and especially as relational (friendship) and life-giving (participation) makes a highly significant contribution to this critical topic.”


—Michael J. Gorman, St. Mary’s Seminary & University





“Developing Prothro’s more technical study, Both Judge and Justifier (2018), this book offers a fresh view of justification in Paul through the lens of the divine (two-sided) contention against sin. Its theological depth, broad grasp of the tradition, and clarity of exposition should ensure that this work becomes, for professional scholars and students alike, a standard resource not only on justification but on Pauline theology generally for many years to come.”


—Brendan Byrne, SJ, University of Divinity, emeritus





“To write about justification in a way that tackles the broad range of debates surrounding this doctrine, while also engaging the reader is a challenging feat. Prothro has accomplished this in a way that is instructive, edifying, and inspiring. Throughout, he highlights the Christo-centricity of justification in its present-past and future poles—indeed, these poles ultimately represent one participation in the righteous Christ.”


—Jeanette Hagen Pifer, Biola University