Philippians 1:14

And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

And {G2532} many {G4119} of the brethren {G80} in {G1722} the Lord {G2962}, waxing confident {G3982} by my {G3450} bonds {G1199}, are much more {G4056} bold {G5111} to speak {G2980} the word {G3056} without fear {G870}.

Also, my being in prison has given most of the brothers in the Lord confidence, so that they have become much more bold in speaking the word of God fearlessly.

And most of the brothers, confident in the Lord by my chains, now dare more greatly to speak the word without fear.

and that most of the brethren in the Lord, being confident through my bonds, are more abundantly bold to speak the word of God without fear.

Commentary

Philippians 1:14 beautifully illustrates how God can use adverse circumstances for the furtherance of His kingdom. This verse highlights that Paul's imprisonment, intended to silence him, paradoxically became a powerful catalyst for the Gospel, inspiring other believers to greater boldness.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's opening remarks in his letter to the Philippians, where he expresses his joy and confidence despite being in prison. In Philippians 1:12-13, Paul explains that his imprisonment had actually served "rather unto the furtherance of the gospel," making his chains for Christ known throughout the praetorian guard and to others. Verse 14 then elaborates on the positive impact his situation had on his fellow Christians.

Key Themes

  • Courage in Adversity: Paul’s steadfastness and unwavering faith while in "bonds" (chains) did not discourage the local believers. Instead, his example instilled a newfound confidence in them. They witnessed his enduring commitment to Christ despite suffering, which emboldened them to face their own fears.
  • Gospel Advancement Through Persecution: This verse demonstrates a core principle of Christian history: persecution often leads to the spread of the Gospel, not its suppression. What the authorities intended for harm, God used for good, turning Paul's confinement into a platform for wider proclamation.
  • Solidarity and Mutual Encouragement: The "brethren in the Lord" were not isolated but connected to Paul, and his courage became contagious. This highlights the powerful impact of mutual encouragement within the Christian community, where one person's perseverance can inspire many others.
  • Fearless Proclamation: The ultimate outcome was a significant increase in the fearless proclamation of "the word." This emphasizes the importance of boldness in sharing the Christian message, especially when facing opposition or cultural resistance. This reflects the spirit of the early church, which spoke the word with great boldness.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "waxing confident" translates the Greek word pepoithotas (πεποιθότας), which means to be persuaded, to trust, or to have a firm conviction. It conveys a sense of gaining assurance and relying on something trustworthy. Paul's "bonds" (δεσμῶν - desmōn) refer to his literal chains and imprisonment. The significance here is that these physical restraints, rather than being a sign of defeat, became a powerful, visible testimony that strengthened the faith and resolve of others.

Practical Application

Philippians 1:14 offers profound lessons for believers today. Our own trials and difficulties, when faced with faith and perseverance, can become powerful testimonies that inspire others. When we demonstrate courage in the face of adversity, we can embolden those around us to speak God's truth more confidently and without fear, even in challenging environments. This verse reminds us that God can use every circumstance, including our suffering, to advance His purposes and strengthen His people, ultimately working all things together for good for those who love Him.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Ephesians 6:19

    ¶ And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

  • Ephesians 6:20

    For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:2

    But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.

  • Luke 1:74

    That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear,

  • Philippians 1:7

    ¶ Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.

  • Colossians 4:4

    That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.

  • Colossians 4:7

    ¶ All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, [who is] a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord:
← Back