Abstract
Galatians 3:28 has often been interpreted as a slogan or baptismal formula that is disconnected from Paul's argument in the letter. It is also often pointed to as evidence of a radically egalitarian lifestyle among early Christians, one in which ethnic, social class, and gender differences are erased in favor of complete social and political equality. This article argues that Gal 3:28 does fit well with Paul's argument about the necessity of baptism for gentiles, but not circumcision, to be included as part of God's salvific plan. It also makes the case that the equality suggested in 3:28 has to do with the equal capacity for all people to achieve moral goodness despite the stereotypes that certain people (in this case gentiles, slaves, and women) are incapable of doing so. This moral equality has no necessary socio-political implications associated with it, however.
Recommended Citation
McGinnis, Kevin
(2023)
"“All One in Christ Jesus:” Physical and Moral Equality in Galatians 3:28,"
Journal of Religious Competition in Antiquity: Vol. 3:
Iss.
1, Article 1.
Available at:
https://soar.stonehill.edu/jrca/vol3/iss1/1