Panel: THE ITALIAN CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PAUL WITHIN JUDAISM PERSPECTIVE



653.5 - TEACHING AND PREACHING: INTEGRATING THE PAUL-WITHIN-JUDAISM PARADIGM IN CATHOLIC ITALIAN CONTEXTS

AUTHORS:
Zygulski P. (Istituto Superiore di Scienze Religiose Metropolitano ~ Foggia ~ Italy)
Text:
This speech explores ways in which Italian Catholicism can engage more effectively with the emerging paradigm of Paul-within-Judaism. The first part surveys current theological disciplines dealing with Paul, particularly Christology, eschatology, and ecclesiology. It also evaluates how these approaches integrate with recent developments in Pauline studies. While the New Perspective on Paul is generally accepted in Italian theological work, significant gaps remain in the reception of within-Judaism research. These gaps include persistent supersessionist framings, limited familiarity with the apocalyptic and covenantal categories of the Second Temple period, and the predominance of models that presuppose Paul's detachment from Judaism. However, the presentation also highlights several promising developments, such as inclusive christologies and ecclesiologies, and eschatological frameworks that resist Christian triumphalism. Integrating the Paul-within-Judaism paradigm could deepen Catholic reflection on Christ and church identity, the nature of salvation, and the Abrahamic relationship while prompting methodological revisions. The second part considers the practical implications of teaching in Italian schools, as well as preaching and catechesis. These pastoral and educational contexts often rely on outdated narratives about Paul that contrast "law" with "grace" or Judaism with Christianity. The notion that Paul invented Christianity is still common, even among prominent Italian secular intellectuals. The Paul-within-Judaism approach has significant potential to overcome stereotypes, foster interreligious sensitivity, and present a historically grounded and theologically coherent portrait of Paul. The speech outlines pedagogical strategies, anticipates possible resistance, and suggests ways to integrate these insights into ordinary ecclesial life, encouraging a responsible reception.