Paul’s Self-Presentation in Phil 1:12–26

Abstract

This article demonstrates how Paul’s self-presentation in Phil 1:12–26 serves as an important exemplum to the Christian community, whereby Paul, in contrast to those who “proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition” (Phil 1:17), values the Gospel, and therefore values Christ above all things. However, Paul’s synkrisis does not lead to self-boasting, but suggests that in regard to the Philippian community, “by his presence again […] their boast might abound in Christ Jesus because of him” (Phil 1:26). This sincerity guides us to focus this article on the function of Phil 1:12–26 in preparing the exemplum of Christ in Phil 2:6–11. In order to reach our desired result, it is necessarily important to underline keywords that are constantly repeated in Phil 1:12–26, such as χριστός, κυρίος, καταγγέλλω, and καύχημα, which serve as a hinge between the first three chapters of the letter to the Philippians, in addition to προσκοπή and παρρησία.

Keywords

• self-presentation
• boasting
• exemplum
• christocentric
• joy in adversity
• suffering