This research paper by Taylor Wright, submitted to Dr. Robert J. Cara for NT5300 – Pauline Epistles at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, presents endurance as the central Pauline imperative describing the believer’s life in the “eschatological present.” Wright argues that endurance is not passive resignation but the active, Spirit-empowered perseverance that characterizes genuine faith. Through analysis of Pauline vocabulary and theology, the paper identifies endurance as essential to salvation’s ongoing reality rather than a mere response to trials.
Wright structures Paul’s doctrine of endurance into four key categories: enduring suffering, enduring in good works, enduring in sound teaching, and enduring in the faith. Each category is examined through close exegesis of texts like Romans 5:3–5 and 1 Corinthians 9:24–27, revealing that endurance is the believer’s participation in Christ’s pattern of suffering and triumph. For Paul, the endurance of suffering validates the authenticity of faith, while perseverance in obedience and doctrine ensures the believer’s hope of final glorification. Endurance, then, is both the product and proof of grace.
The paper concludes that endurance serves as the Christian’s operative state in anticipation of eternal life. By integrating hope, faith, and love within an eschatological framework, Wright shows that endurance shapes every aspect of Christian existence. It calls pastors and believers alike to steadfastness in suffering, holiness in conduct, and confidence in God’s sustaining grace until the consummation of salvation.
Course and semester: NT5300 Pauline Epistles — Spring 2020