Enemies of the Cross of Christ

''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.