Puzzling out Paul - A consideration of 3 Corinthians as part of the Acts of Paul

Abstract

In this thesis the apocryphal correspondence between Paul and the Corinthians, otherwise known as 3 Corinthians, is considered in its relation to the Acts of Paul (Acta Pauli). Since the publication of the Greek text of 3 Corinthians, the majority opinion has been that the document originated as a separate document before it was incorporated in the composition of the Acts of Paul. I found the reasons for a separate origin unsatisfactory, reaching this conclusion after considering the manuscript evidence in the light of good textual criticism practices, examining the letter elements of both letters in comparison with that of other letters in the New Testament and second century Christianity and observing narrative elements in the two letters and the Acts of Paul. I also attempt to consider 3 Corinthians as an original integral part of the Acts of Paul, composed by the same author.