Erwählung inmitten einer multikulturellen Gemeindesituation. Zum papyrologischen Befund von ἐκλογή in 1Thess 1,4

Abstract

In this article the theological notion of the election by God in 1Thess 1,4–5 gives rise to a papyrological investigation of the central term έκλογή. The everyday use of the term reveals conclusions of Paul’s understanding of the community-forming process as a deliberate act of God’s will. Moreover the use of δύναμις and πληροφορία in the documentary sources gives an impression of how the election of the community can be comprehended as powerful as well as successful.