Philippians 1:10

KJV

That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;

KJV (with Strong's)

That {G1519} ye {G5209} may approve {G1381} things that are excellent {G1308}; that {G2443} ye may be {G5600} sincere {G1506} and {G2532} without offence {G677} till {G1519} the day {G2250} of Christ {G5547};

Complete Jewish Bible

so that you will be able to determine what is best and thus be pure and without blame for the Day of the Messiah,

Berean Standard Bible

so that you may be able to test and prove what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,

American Standard Version

so that ye may approve the things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and void of offence unto the day of Christ;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Philippians 1:10, the Apostle Paul articulates a fervent prayer for the Philippian believers, desiring that their abounding love, informed by knowledge and discernment, would enable them to recognize and embrace what is truly superior in God's eyes. This spiritual maturity is intended to cultivate a life characterized by unblemished integrity and blameless conduct, preparing them to stand pure and without fault before Christ on the day of His glorious return.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a direct continuation of Paul's profound prayer for the Philippian church, which begins in [Philippians 1:9](/philippians/1-9 "Philippians 1:9 - Paul's Prayer for the Philippians"). Having just prayed for their love to abound "in all knowledge and all judgment" (KJV), Paul immediately states the purpose of such spiritual growth: "that ye may approve things that are excellent." The subsequent clauses, "that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ," reveal the practical, ethical outcome and the ultimate eschatological horizon of this discerning love. The entire prayer in [Philippians 1:9-11](/philippians/1-9-11 "Philippians 1:9-11 - The Purpose of Paul's Prayer") serves as a bridge from Paul's initial thanksgiving and confidence in their partnership in the Gospel ([Philippians 1:3-8](/philippians/1-3-8 "Philippians 1:3-8 - Paul's Thanksgiving and Confidence")) to his later discussions on suffering, unity, and the pursuit of Christ.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Philippi was a Roman colony, proud of its Roman citizenship and customs. This context is significant as Paul often contrasts the values and citizenship of Rome with the heavenly citizenship of believers ([Philippians 3:20](/philippians/3-20 "Philippians 3:20 - Our Citizenship is in Heaven")). The emphasis on "approving things that are excellent" and living "without offence" would have resonated deeply in a society that valued public honor, reputation, and moral uprightness, albeit often by human standards. Paul reorients these aspirations towards divine standards, motivated by the "Day of Christ" rather than the judgment of human authorities. The Philippian church itself was a diverse community, including prominent women like Lydia ([Acts 16:14](/acts/16-14 "Acts 16:14 - Lydia's Conversion")) and the jailer ([Acts 16:33](/acts/16-33 "Acts 16:33 - The Philippian Jailer's Conversion")), and they were known for their generosity and steadfastness amidst persecution.
* **Key Themes:** Philippians 1:10 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book. The theme of **discernment and spiritual maturity** is paramount, building on the call for love to abound in "knowledge and judgment" in [Philippians 1:9](/philippians/1-9 "Philippians 1:9 - Paul's Prayer for Knowledge and Judgment"). This isn't merely intellectual understanding but a practical ability to evaluate and choose what is morally and spiritually superior, reflecting God's will. Closely related is the theme of **Christian conduct and integrity**, where believers are called to live lives of purity ("sincere") and blamelessness ("without offence"), ensuring their actions do not hinder the Gospel or cause others to stumble. This echoes the broader New Testament call for believers to live "worthy of the gospel" as seen in [Philippians 1:27](/philippians/1-27 "Philippians 1:27 - Living Worthy of the Gospel"). Finally, the verse strongly emphasizes **eschatological hope and motivation**, with "the day of Christ" serving as the ultimate goal and impetus for present holiness. This future accountability and glorious expectation is a recurring motif in Paul's letters, driving believers towards perseverance and sanctification, as also seen in [1 Corinthians 1:8](/1_corinthians/1-8 "1 Corinthians 1:8 - Blameless in the Day of the Lord").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **approve (Greek, _dokimázō'_):** From *dokimos*, meaning "tested" or "approved." This verb signifies a process of testing, examining, or scrutinizing something to determine its genuineness, quality, or worth. The implication is that after such a test, the item is found to be acceptable and therefore approved. It's not a passive acceptance but an active, discerning judgment that leads to affirmation.
* **excellent (Greek, _diaphérō'_):** Derived from *dia* (through) and *pherō* (to bear). This word literally means "to bear through" or "to bear apart," but it commonly conveys the idea of "to differ" or "to surpass." In this context, it refers to things that are superior, more valuable, or of greater importance, distinguishing them from what is merely good or even bad. It implies a qualitative superiority that stands out from the ordinary.
* **sincere (Greek, _eilikrinḗs'_):** This term is thought to come from *heilē* (sun's ray) and *krinō* (to judge). It vividly depicts something "judged by sunlight," meaning it is pure, unmixed, unadulterated, and transparent. It speaks to a moral and spiritual purity that is free from hidden motives, hypocrisy, or any form of impurity, standing up to the most intense scrutiny.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That ye may approve things that are excellent;":** This clause reveals the immediate purpose of the abounding love in knowledge and judgment mentioned in the preceding verse. The believers are to actively test, discern, and then affirm or choose those things that are genuinely superior in God's sight. This involves a moral and spiritual evaluation that prioritizes divine values over worldly ones, recognizing what truly matters and has lasting worth.
* **"that ye may be sincere":** This introduces the first ethical outcome of such discernment. To be "sincere" means to be pure, unmixed, and transparent in character and conduct. It speaks to an inner integrity and genuineness, free from hypocrisy, duplicity, or hidden agendas. This purity is not merely external but stems from the heart, reflecting an undivided devotion to Christ.
* **"and without offence":** This second ethical outcome complements "sincere." To be "without offence" (Greek: *apróskopos*) carries a dual meaning: actively, not causing others to stumble or be led into sin through one's actions; and passively, not stumbling oneself, remaining firm in faith and conduct. It emphasizes blamelessness and integrity in one's interactions and spiritual walk, ensuring that one's life brings no reproach to the Gospel.
* **"till the day of Christ;":** This phrase establishes the ultimate horizon and motivation for the preceding commands. The pursuit of excellence, sincerity, and blamelessness is not for a temporary period but is to be maintained consistently until the glorious return of Jesus Christ. This "Day of Christ" signifies the time of His appearing, judgment, and the full consummation of salvation, serving as a powerful incentive for perseverance in holiness.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several significant literary devices in this verse. The overarching structure is one of **Purpose Clauses**, introduced by the Greek conjunction *hina* ("that" or "in order that"), which clearly delineate the desired outcomes of the Philippians' spiritual growth. This highlights Paul's pastoral intent and the teleological nature of Christian living, always moving towards a divine end. There is also a subtle **Metaphor** embedded in the word "sincere" (*eilikrinḗs*), which, as discussed, carries the imagery of something "judged by sunlight." This evokes the idea of absolute transparency and purity, where nothing is hidden from the light of God's scrutiny. Finally, the phrase "till the day of Christ" functions as an **Eschatological Motivation**, grounding present ethical conduct in the future reality of Christ's return and the ultimate accountability before Him. This future hope serves as a powerful impetus for living a life of excellence, sincerity, and blamelessness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philippians 1:10 encapsulates a profound theological truth: Christian maturity is not merely about intellectual assent but about a transformed life that actively discerns and embodies God's values. It underscores the inseparable link between spiritual knowledge, ethical conduct, and eschatological hope. The ability to "approve things that are excellent" is a Spirit-empowered discernment that allows believers to navigate a complex world, making choices that honor God and advance His kingdom. This discerning life naturally flows into a character marked by "sincerity" (inner purity) and being "without offence" (outward blamelessness), ensuring that the believer's life is a clear testimony to the Gospel. The ultimate motivation for this pursuit of holiness is the "Day of Christ," reminding us that our present walk has eternal implications and is lived in anticipation of our Lord's glorious appearing. This verse thus calls believers to a holistic spiritual journey, where growth in understanding leads to growth in character, all oriented towards Christ's return.

* [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the Renewing of Your Mind")
* [1 Thessalonians 5:23](/1_thessalonians/5-23 "1 Thessalonians 5:23 - Sanctification and Blamelessness")
* [Colossians 1:9-10](/colossians/1-9-10 "Colossians 1:9-10 - Paul's Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom and Fruitfulness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philippians 1:10 offers a timeless blueprint for Christian living, challenging us to actively cultivate a life of discerning wisdom and unblemished integrity. In a world saturated with competing values and moral ambiguities, the call to "approve things that are excellent" compels us to prayerfully and diligently engage with God's Word, allowing the Holy Spirit to sharpen our spiritual senses. This isn't about rigid legalism but a dynamic pursuit of what truly aligns with God's perfect will, distinguishing the good from the better, and the better from the best. Furthermore, the imperative to be "sincere and without offence" urges us to live with radical transparency and purity of motive, ensuring that our actions consistently reflect the truth of the Gospel. Our lives are a testimony, and we are called to live in such a way that we do not cause others to stumble, nor do we compromise our own walk with Christ. This pursuit of holiness is not a burden but a joyful anticipation, fueled by the glorious hope of Christ's return, knowing that our present faithfulness prepares us for His eternal presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What areas of my life currently require greater discernment to "approve things that are excellent" according to God's standards, rather than worldly ones?**
* **In what ways can I cultivate a deeper "sincerity" (purity of heart and motive) in my daily interactions and decisions?**
* **How can I ensure my conduct is "without offence," both in not causing others to stumble and in maintaining my own blameless walk with Christ?**
* **How does the "day of Christ" motivate my pursuit of holiness and integrity in the present moment?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean to "approve things that are excellent"?**

Answer: To "approve things that are excellent" (Greek: *dokimázō ta diapheronta*) means to test, examine, and then discern or prove what is truly superior, valuable, and morally good in God's eyes. It implies a critical evaluation of choices, priorities, and values, leading to an active affirmation and embrace of those things that are qualitatively better or more important from a divine perspective. It's about developing spiritual discernment to distinguish between what is merely good, and what is truly God-honoring and eternally significant, as also encouraged in [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Proving God's Will").

**How can a Christian be "sincere and without offence"?**

Answer: To be "sincere" (Greek: *eilikrinḗs*) means to be pure, unmixed, and genuine, as if "judged by sunlight"—transparent and without hidden motives or hypocrisy. To be "without offence" (Greek: *apróskopos*) means not to cause others to stumble or be led into sin by one's actions, and also not to stumble oneself in one's faith or conduct. This requires a life of integrity, purity of heart, and careful consideration of how one's actions impact others and one's own walk with God. It's a call to live blamelessly, reflecting the character of Christ, as seen in passages like [1 Peter 2:12](/1_peter/2-12 "1 Peter 2:12 - Living Honorably Among Gentiles").

**What is "the day of Christ"?**

Answer: "The day of Christ" refers to the future return of Jesus Christ, marking the culmination of God's redemptive plan. It signifies the time of His glorious appearing, when believers will stand before Him, receive their full salvation, and be transformed into His likeness. This eschatological event serves as a powerful motivation for present holiness, accountability, and perseverance in faith. It is also referred to as "the day of the Lord" in other New Testament passages, such as [1 Thessalonians 5:2](/1_thessalonians/5-2 "1 Thessalonians 5:2 - The Day of the Lord").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philippians 1:10 finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the one who perfectly "approved things that are excellent," always discerning and fulfilling the will of His Father, even to the point of death on the cross ([John 6:38](/john/6-38 "John 6:38 - Jesus Does the Father's Will")). Jesus was supremely "sincere," utterly pure and transparent in motive and action, without any guile or hypocrisy ([1 Peter 2:22](/1_peter/2-22 "1 Peter 2:22 - Christ Committed No Sin")). He was also perfectly "without offence," living a blameless life that never caused anyone to stumble into sin, but rather drew them to God ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our Sinless High Priest")). The "day of Christ" to which believers look forward is the day of His glorious return, when He will appear not as a humble servant but as the triumphant King, bringing full redemption and judgment. Believers are called to live in anticipation of this day, striving for the same excellence, sincerity, and blamelessness that characterized Christ's earthly life, knowing that on that day, they will be made fully like Him ([1 John 3:2](/1_john/3-2 "1 John 3:2 - We Shall Be Like Him")). Thus, our sanctification is a process of being conformed to the image of Christ, preparing us to stand pure and blameless before Him on that great and glorious "day."

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 12:2

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

1 Thessalonians 3:13

To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.

1 Thessalonians 5:23

¶ And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 2:18

And knowest [his] will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;

Ephesians 5:10

Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.

1 John 4:1

¶ Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

Philippians 1:6

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform [it] until the day of Jesus Christ: