Apparently, there is a large body of literature discussing the Greek or Platonic influence on the Pauline literature. It seems to me that if a person can read into the scriptures, especially the New Testament, and suggest that the authors were influenced by different philosophical schools then this stokes the debate concerning scripture's interpretation and the potential for human fallibility, which might tarnish scripture's inerrancy. I am a self-proclaimed novice on this topic since I have read very little concerning these matters, but here are my thoughts nonetheless.
Some claim that Paul’s writings are rife with Platonic dualism. For example, 1 Corinthians 2:12 indicate a dichotomy between a Spirit from heaven and the world, Romans 7 and 8 suggest a dualism in a person and asserts the ability for a person to live either by the spirit or the flesh. The defense for the Platonic influence on Paul is put much more eloquently then I have here, but I think you get the idea.
In John 3, Christ says, “That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” Later in that chapter Christ says, “And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil.” I believe Paul builds on Christ words. He suggests that people should “walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit,” indicates that the person who “sets their mind on the spirit is life and peace,” and he indicates that “if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the flesh, you will live.” These seem to correspond, and not diverge from, Christ's words.
I’m not sure if Paul’s works were more influenced by his Hebrew roots or his Greek education. If these scriptures represent a Platonic influence then it seems that the Spirit of Christ has made it that his words would correspond with Christ’s words.
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