"Was Paul a racist? A sexist? A homophobe? Just kind of a jerk? Modern readers are often offended by the apostle's strong words and apparently politically incorrect views. Richards and O'Brien do not sugarcoat or shy away from these issues. Instead, they dig deep into the first-century world to understand Paul on his own terms and in terms of the cultures in which he lived. The result is a deeper understanding of the radical impact of the gospel that Paul preached. This is a great book, full of clarity, nuance, and insight."
—Mark L. Strauss, university professor of New Testament, Bethel Seminary, San Diego

"A must-read for those who teach and preach on Paul, and for all who have questions about the complex apostle."
—Lynn H. Cohick, professor of New Testament, Wheaton College

"For those who have been daunted, angered, confused, or shocked by the apostle Paul, this fine, honest, lucid book by Richards and O'Brien helps readers better understand Paul in his own first-century setting. . . . Paul Behaving Badly gives a fresh glimpse into the life and thought of the controversial apostle—one that is both fair minded and charitable, at once challenging to staid assumptions while faithful to Christian orthodoxy."
—Paul Copan, professor and Pledger Family Chair of Philosophy and Ethics, Palm Beach Atlantic University, West Palm Beach, Florida