Preface

Summary

This is a revised and updated version of my thesis, which was accepted by Brunel University and London School of Theology in June 2004.

Discernment had long been a topic of interest to me. Various interpretations of ‘Spirit guidance’, ‘promptings’ and ‘words of the Lord’ had accompanied me throughout my schooling, church life and theological activities. I was consequently intrigued when Professor Max Turner mentioned that there was scope for research in this area and quite surprised by the extent to which Paul challenged the concepts I had previously encountered. The spiritual discernment that I found in Paul was dependent on a liberated perception of reality and mature self-understanding. This research reflects the attempt to elucidate this new perception.

It is a privilege to be allowed to name a number of people and organisations which have contributed to the completion of this work.

First of all I am greatly indebted to Professor Max Turner for his supervision of this work. His patience, his probing and his trust allowed me to develop freely and experience the conditions for the type of discernment described below.

I would like to thank the Laing Trust, which granted a generous scholarship over a number of years, hence making this work possible.

Similarly, I would like to express my deep gratitude to the Hilverkus family and Heidrun Helmer for their support. Very special thanks go to my sister and brother-in-law for sharing their home with me.