oa Collective Memory and Group Formation. Paul’s Methods of Christological Conflict Control

Being a necessary element of group formation, conflicts between competing positions stand at the cradle of Christianity. Identities take form through pointing out differences and defending them. But group conflicts need to be limited and balanced out in order to keep their creative impetus and not turn destructive. Inspired by Kees Schuyt’s 2007 Cleveringa Lecture, the article discusses how Paul tried to regulate group conflicts in his communities. It quickly becomes evident how frequently and skillfully Paul takes recourse to fundamental theological traditions and formative practices and experiences common to him and his addressees. Christology and Paul’s role as apostle play a particularly important part. But not always Paul seems to have succeeded.