Abstract

Scholars frequently claim that Paul’s new covenant language in 2 Cor 3 is derived from Jer 31 (38 LXX), but they frequently overlook the larger discourse of the ancient prophet that includes the purchase of his uncle’s field in Jer 32 (39 LXX). This article suggests that the sealing of an official contract in the form of a “double document” as proof of the redemption of Jeremiah’s purchase for a future inheritance, along with the covenant language that both precedes and follows this narrative, have influenced the interpretation of certain images that Paul presents in 2 Corinthians. This includes not only his term new covenant but also his conception of the seal of the Spirit (1:21–22), writing in the heart (3:2–3), and treasure in earthenware jars (4:7). Paul recontextualizes for his Corinthian auditors Jeremiah’s prophetic object lesson that involves a seal (bulla), a future promise, and a double document placed in an earthenware jar.

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