Re: phil 2:6
WFWarren@aol.com
Wed, 30 Apr 1997 11:28:11 -0400 (EDT)
Andrew, I've found the "honor-shame" category to be quite helpful for
understanding this entire section, with this phrase fitting well into that
scheme. The concept of ascribed honor as the thing normally grasped and held
tightly (due to being the guarrantee of certain rights and privileges as part
of the birthright) serves as the background. Jesus gives up all claim to his
ascribed honor and begins from ground zero, having to prove himself worthy of
acquired honor through his obedience. O'Brien has the right idea with the
phrase, but this background helps to highlight the social setting in my mind.
Bill Warren
Professor of New Testament and Greek
New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary