Philippians 3:4-11 as Subversive Encomium

This study seeks to highlight the influence of the progymnasmata on Phil 3:4-11 arguing that Paul has written his own encomium. The encomium found in Philippians 3 follows the traditional encomiastic topics of origin, nurture, deeds, death, events after death and concludes with a comparison. However, Paul has subverted the conventions to show that Christ is the one worthy of praise.