Enemies of the Cross of Christ
The Terminology of the Cross and Conflict in Philippians
Demetrius Williams
- 298 pages
- English
- PDF
- Available on iOS & Android
Enemies of the Cross of Christ
The Terminology of the Cross and Conflict in Philippians
Demetrius Williams
About This Book
'Enemies of the Cross' employs classical rhetorical analysis to examine how Paul structures a deliberative argument using his understanding of the 'cross of Christ'. His goals are to guide/advise the Philippian community through internal and external strife (ch. 2), combat his opponents (ch.3), and develop his notion of the eschatological community (3: 18-21). Williams proposes that while Paul has a 'theology of the death of Jesus', of which cross terminology is one of several aspects, this terminology is used almost exclusively in polemical/conflictual contexts. Hence Paul appears to be using 'cross of Christ' not so much as a doctrine but rather as a rhetorical tool, in a context of conflict and strife, to support his understanding of eschatology, apostolic service, the nature of Christian existence, and community among the saints.