Philippians 1:17

But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.

But {G1161} the other of {G1537} love {G26}, knowing {G1492} that {G3754} I am set {G2749} for {G1519} the defence {G627} of the gospel {G2098}.

while the former announce the Messiah out of selfish ambition, with impure motives, supposing they can stir up trouble for me in prison.

The former, however, preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can add to the distress of my chains.

but the other proclaim Christ of faction, not sincerely, thinking to raise up affliction for me in my bonds.

Commentary

Philippians 1:17 stands as a powerful statement about the purest motivations in Christian service and the Apostle Paul's unwavering commitment to the truth of the Gospel. In this verse, Paul distinguishes between those who preach Christ out of selfish ambition and those who do so out of genuine love, aligning himself with the latter's noble intent.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's introductory remarks in his letter to the Philippians, written from Roman imprisonment (likely his first Roman captivity). He describes the various ways Christ is being proclaimed, even by those with less-than-pure motives (Philippians 1:15-16). While some preached out of "envy and strife," others, referred to in verse 17, preached "of love." Paul's personal circumstances, including his chains (Philippians 1:13), had paradoxically advanced the Gospel, prompting different reactions from fellow believers.

Key Themes

  • Pure Motivation in Ministry: The verse highlights that true Christian service, especially the proclamation of the Gospel, should be driven by love. This contrasts sharply with motives like rivalry or self-promotion, underscoring the importance of a sincere heart in ministry.
  • The Defense of the Gospel: Paul explicitly states his divine appointment: "I am set for the defence of the gospel." This reveals his primary calling was not just to spread the good news, but also to protect its integrity and truth against error and misrepresentation. This concept is foundational to Christian apologetics.
  • Paul's Enduring Calling: Despite his imprisonment, Paul understood his suffering as part of God's sovereign plan to further and defend the Gospel. His circumstances did not diminish his sense of purpose but rather provided new avenues for its advancement.

Linguistic Insights

The word "love" here is the Greek word agape, signifying a selfless, unconditional, and divine love that seeks the highest good of others. It is distinct from mere affection or human desire, emphasizing a profound, God-like love that underpins true Christian action.

The term "defence" is from the Greek word apologia, which means a reasoned verbal defense or explanation. This is where we get the English word "apologetics." Paul wasn't merely defending the Gospel physically, but intellectually and spiritually, presenting a clear, reasoned argument for its truth and validity. He was "set" or appointed by God for this specific, crucial task.

Practical Application

For believers today, Philippians 1:17 offers several profound lessons:

  1. Examine Your Motives: It challenges us to reflect on why we serve God or engage in Christian activities. Is it truly out of love for Christ and others, or are there hidden motives of self-gain, recognition, or competition?
  2. Be Prepared to Defend the Faith: Like Paul, every Christian is called to be ready to articulate and defend the hope that is within them (1 Peter 3:15). This involves understanding biblical truth and being able to explain it clearly and compellingly in a world often skeptical or misinformed about Christianity.
  3. God Uses All Circumstances: Paul's imprisonment, a seemingly negative situation, became an opportunity for the Gospel's defense and spread. This reminds us that God can use our challenges, difficulties, or limitations to fulfill His purposes and advance His kingdom, often in unexpected ways.
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

  • 2 Timothy 1:11

    Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.

  • 2 Timothy 1:12

    For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

  • Philippians 2:3

    [Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

  • 1 Corinthians 9:16

    For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!

  • 1 Corinthians 9:17

    For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation [of the gospel] is committed unto me.

  • 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.

  • Acts 26:24

    ¶ And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.
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