Kirster Stendahl was one of the pioneers in a more adequate understanding of Paul’s mission, which had been distorted in the acrimony of Reformation controversies. Reflections on the implications for Christian theology of the Jewish holocaust make it even more imperative to see Paul in his historical setting as Apostle ot the Gentiles. It is a matter of major ecumenical concern to situate Paul and Israel correctly in the world of their time and thus gain a better understanding of the relationship between Paul and his people.