PART 2 - COLOSSIANS AND EPHESIANS: COMMUNITY-STABILIZING INSTITUTIONALIZATION

Summary

Colossians and Ephesians reflect the continued existence of Pauline churches in the absence of the Apostle. The following study explores the nature of the community life underlying these writings. It does not constitute a defence of the pseudonymity of Colossians and Ephesians. Rather, it considers the implications of pseudonymity for understanding the social mechanisms at work in the early church. The investigation traces the development of a Pauline movement that stretched beyond the boundaries of the Apostle's own lifetime.

Throughout this section, comparisons will be made between the authentic epistles, and Colossians and Ephesians. The relationship between the writings will be analysed in terms of the ongoing process of institutionalization. When differences appear, suggestions will be made as to the historical factors acting as catalysts for change. Similarities will be discussed with a view to comprehending the continued relevance of certain aspects of the Pauline symbol system for communities faced with new social situations.

The means employed by the communities of Colossians and Ephesians to deal with the absence or death of Paul will be of primary significance for this study. As the Pauline movement incorporated new generations, it was faced with different problems from those of the early days of community formation. However, the existence of Pauline traditions provided some guidelines to cope with new situations.