McMaster Journal of Theology and Ministry 7 (2006) 9-22 PAUL AND THE HISTORICAL JESUS: A CASE STUDY IN FIRST CORINTHIANS Stephen J. Bedard Meaford, ON Introduction How well did the Apostle Paul know the earthly life of Jesus of Naz- areth? Did Paul know anything of the life and ministry of Jesus or was he only interested in the theological implications of the crucifixion and resurrection? These questions have divided New Testament scholars for many years. The classic contrast is that of W.D. Davies who argued that “Paul is steeped in the mind and words of his Lord” 1 and R. Bult- mann who claimed that “the teaching of the historical Jesus plays no role, or practically none, in Paul”. 2 This debate has expanded beyond the disputes of the academic world, as seen by the recent claim of one former New Testament professor writing for a popular audience: What is absolutely striking about [the writings of Paul] is their virtual silence on the whole subject of a historical Jesus of Nazareth. There is no question that this is the datum that ultimately stares down the proponents of historicity. 3 Is it true that the teachings and life of the historical Jesus was at best unimportant and at worst unknown to Paul? There is, in fact, evidence to support that the earthly life of Jesus was both known and used by Paul in his Epistles. This paper will focus on 1 Corinthians as a case study on Paul’s knowledge and use of the Jesus story. It is helpful to focus on one letter, in order to obtain a clear 1. W.D. Davies, Paul and Rabbinic Judaism (New York: Harper & Row, 1967), p. 140. 2. R. Bultmann, Theology of the New Testament (New York: Scribner, 1951), vol. I, p. 35. 3. Tom Harpur, Pagan Christ (Toronto: Thomas Allen, 2004), pp. 166-67.