Where are the principles of encomium you are bringing out after studying the five
rhetoricians you explored above?
Prooemion (Introduction): Construct an introduction appropriate to the subject. The
introduction should capture the audience’s attention and show what will be praised.
Origin: Mention the subject’s origin particularly if they come from a famous or noble
lineage such parents, race, homeland, nation, and ancestors.
Birth: Mention any miraculous or significant events surrounding the subject’s birth,
that include prophetic dreams, strange signs, or supernatural occurrences
Deeds and Virtues: Describe the individual’s deeds and connection with virtues
o Externals Goods: Relatives, Friend, Possessions, Servants, Luck, Reputation,
Wealth, and so on. External goods can also be of multiple reason. it can uplift,
motivate, support and build strong bond .
Posthumous Events: Describe also what was done after the subject death.
Comparison: The most effective techniques in an encomium is comparing the subject
to other famous or heroic figures to show its unique and outstanding.
Epilogue: A closing section of the subject’s virtues.
However, though the researcher has structured the principles of encomium after studying the
five rhetoricians. The structure can be flexible. it is not rigid. Therefore, the researcher will
use these encomium elements that is fit in the Philippians where Paul uses the praise
example: Encomium of Christ, individuals and Philippians community in Philippians .
1. Encomium of Christ
Origin: Christ pre-existence: He existed in the form of God (Phil. 2:6)
Birth: Christ Incarnation: Being born in the likeness of humans (Phil 2:7)
Virtues and Deeds: Christ humility, obedience and self-Sacrifice (Phil 2:8)
Posthumous Events: Christ exaltation: “God highly exalted Him.” (Phil. 2:10a)
Comparison: Bestowed on Him the name which is above every name (Phil. 2:10-11)
2. Encomium of Individuals (Timothy and Epaphroditus)
Origin
o Hometown: He was from Lystra, a city of Lycaonia (Acts 16:1).
o Parents: Timothy was the son of a Jewish mother and a Greek father.
Deeds and Virtues
o Acknowledging Timothy for his genuine concern for the Philippian’s welfare
(verse 20).
o Commending Timothy for his proven character and faithful service in gospel
mission (verse 22).
o Commending Epaphroditus for his companionship in the gospel (verse 25).
o Commending Epaphroditus praises him for risking his life for the gospel
(verses 26-27).
Comparison
o Paul compares Timothy through the use of negative hyperbole between one’s
own interests and the interests of Christ (Phil 2:21).
3. Encomium of Community (Philippian believers: 1:3-11)
Introduction (Prooimion)
o Paul begins by thanking God for the Philippian partnership in the gospel
(verses 3-5).
Deeds and virtues
o Commending Philippian for their continue faithfulness (v-6)
External goods: He praises for the bond between Paul and the
Philippians (verses 7-8)
o Commending for their continued growth in love, knowledge, and discernment
as they await the return of Christ (verse 9).
Comparison
o Paul compares their virtues to the ultimate goal of righteousness that comes
from Jesus Christ (verse 11)
4. Encomium of Community (Philippian believers Phil 4 : 10-20)
Introduction (Prooimion)
o Paul begins by rejoicing in the Lord for the Philippian renewed concern for
him expressing their generosity and partnership.
Virtues and Deeds
o Commending the Philippians for their Partnership in gospel mission. (v: 14-
15)
o Acknowledgment of the Philippians Generous and Financial Support (vv. 16)
o Commending the gift as a “fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing
to God” (v. 18)
Comparison
o Paul compares the Philippians to other churches in a partnership with him in
giving and receiving (Philippians 4:15).
Epilogue
o Paul concludes with a doxology, praising God for His work through their
generosity (Phil 4:20)
Implication to the Christian Community.
