Jews, Gentiles, and “in Christ” Identity: A Post-Supersessionist Reading of Philippians

Interpretations of Philippians have commonly suggested that the letter seeks to demonstrate worthlessness Paul’s own (former) Jewish identity, and thus should not be led astray by those who would persuade them adopt Law. Accordingly, it is assumed Paul understands Judaism been superseded Christianity and, moreover, Christian identity has all other identities persons may possessed upon entrance into Christ community. In contrast this long-standing interpretive tradition, article contends that, for Paul, ethnic distinction between Jew gentile within greater community remains intact, along with a continued role Torah both subgroups. Rather than advancing supersessionist agenda, fundamentally in strengthen Philippians’ as members nations have, alongside Israel, become God’s holy, multiethnic people.