This study seeks to make advances toward solving what Hendrikus Boers has called "the most fundamental problem in Pauline interpretation": the identification of a theological centre which "integrates the diversity of the apostle"s thinking into a coherent whole". Arguing that certain passages from the seven undisputed Pauline epistles represent summary statements in which the apostle himself set forth the coherent centre of his theology, this study reconstructs the content of this centre as a network of 14 core convictions, revolving around four ideas. The result is an apocalyptic interpretation of the Christ event. By showing that "dying with Christ" and similar phrases are Pauline metaphors for Christ-like trust in God, this study is also able to fully integrate Paul"s doctrine of "righteousness through trust" with his doctrine of "participation in Christ".