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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Philippians 1:21–26. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
We have here an account of the life and death of blessed Paul: his life was Christ, and his death was gain. Observe, 1. It is the undoubted character of every good Christian that to him to live is Christ. The glory of Christ ought to be the end of our life, the grace of Christ the principle of our life, and the word of Christ the rule of it. The Christian life is derived from Christ, and directed to him. He is the principle, rule, and end of it. 2. All those to whom to live is Christ to them to die will be gain: it is great gain, a present gain, everlasting gain. Death is a great loss to a carnal worldly man; for he loses all his comforts and all his hopes: but to a good Christian it is gain, for it is the end of all his weakness and misery and the perfection of his comforts and accomplishment of his hopes; it delivers him from all the evils of life, and brings him to the possession of the chief good. Or, To me to die is gain; that is, "to the gospel as well as to myself, which will receive a further confirmation by the seal of my blood, as it had before by the labours of my life." So Christ would be magnified by his death, Phi 1:20. Some read the whole expression thus: To me, living and dying, Christ is gain; that is, "I desire no more, neither while I live nor when I die, but to win Christ and be found in him." It might be thought, if death were gain to him, he would be weary of life, and impatient for death. No, says he,
I.If I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour (Phi 1:22), that is, Christ is.
He reckoned his labour well bestowed, if he could be instrumental to advance the honour and interest of the kingdom of Christ in the world. It is the fruit of my labour - karpos ergou - operae pretium. It is worth while for a good Christian and a good minister to live in the world as long as he can glorify God and do good to his church. Yet what I shall choose I wot not; for I am in a strait betwixt two. It was a blessed strait which Paul was in, not between two evil things, but between two good things. David was in a strait by three judgments - sword, famine, and pestilence: Paul was in a strait between two blessings - living to Christ, and being with him. Here we have him reasoning with himself upon the matter.
1.His inclination was for death. See the power of faith and of divine grace; it can reconcile the mind to death, and make us willing to die, though death is the destruction of our present nature and the greatest natural evil. We have naturally an aversion to death, but he had an inclination to it (Phi 1:23); Having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ, Observe,
(1.)It is being with Christ which makes a departure desirable to a good man. It is not simply dying, or putting off the body, it is not of itself and for its own sake a desirable thing; but it may be necessarily connected with something else which may make it truly so. If I cannot be with Christ without departing, I shall reckon it desirable on that account to depart.
(2.)As soon as ever the soul departs, it is immediately with Christ. This day shalt thou be with me in paradise, Luk 23:43. Absent from the body and present with the Lord (Co2 5:8), without any interval between. Which is far better, pollō gar mallon kreisson - very much exceeding, or vastly preferable. Those who know the value of Christ and heaven will readily acknowledge it far better to be in heaven than to be in this world, to be with Christ than to be with any creature; for in this world we are compassed about with sin, born to trouble, born again to it; but, if we come to be with Christ, farewell sin and temptation, farewell sorrow and death, for ever.
2.His judgment was rather to live awhile longer in this world, for the service of the church (Phi 1:24): Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. It is needful for the church to have ministers; and faithful ministers can ill be spared when the harvest is plenteous and the labourers are few. Observe, Those who have most reason to desire to depart should be willing to continue in the world as long as God has any work for them to do. Paul's strait was not between living in this world and living in heaven; between these two there is no comparison: but his strait was between serving Christ in this world and enjoying him in another. Still it was Christ that his heart was upon: though, to advance the interest of Christ and his church, he chose rather to tarry here, where he met with oppositions and difficulties, and to deny himself for awhile the satisfaction of his reward.
II.And, having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith, Phi 1:25.
Observe here, 1. What a great confidence Paul had in the divine Providence, that it would order all for the best to him. "Having this confidence that it will be needful for you that I should abide in the flesh, I know that I shall abide." 2. Whatsoever is best for the church, we may be sure God will do. If we know what is needful for building up the body of Christ, we may certainly know what will be; for he will take care of its interests, and do what is best, all things considered, in every condition it is in. 3. Observe what ministers are continued for: For our furtherance and joy of faith, our further advancement in holiness and comfort. 4. What promotes our faith and joy of faith is very much for our furtherance in the way to heaven. The more faith the more joy, and the more faith and joy the more we are furthered in our Christian course. 5. There is need of a settled ministry, not only for the conviction and conversion of sinners, but for the edification of saints, and their furtherance in spiritual attainments.
III.That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me, by my coming to you again, Phi 1:26.
They rejoiced in the hope of seeing him, and enjoying his further labours among them. Observe,
1.The continuance of ministers with the church ought to be the rejoicing of all who wish well to the church, and to its interests.
2.All our joys should terminate in Christ. Our joy in good ministers should be our joy in Christ Jesus for them; for they are but the friends of the bridegroom, and are to be received in his name, and for his sake.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
3 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
Truly like a father, like a servant of God, he has renounced that one of his two desires which was to be more profitable to himself alone, namely, that he should now depart and be with Christ.… He says “I shall remain,” and he adds the stronger form “I shall continue.” This means: “I shall stay until the completion, that is, the completion of your progress, so that you may obtain grace. Thus when you present your faith, you may receive grace from God.”
He showed that to depart was better, persuading himself not to grieve: he showed them, that if he remained, he remained for their sake, that it proceeded not from wickedness of those who plotted against him. He subjoined also the reason, that he might secure their belief. For if this is necessary, that is, I shall by all means remain, and I will not "remain" simply, but "will remain with you." For this is the meaning of the word, "and I shall abide with," i.e. I shall see you. For what cause? "For your progress and joy in the faith." Here too he rouses them, to take heed unto themselves. If, says he, for your sakes I abide, see that ye shame not my abiding. "For your progress," I have chosen to remain, when I was about to see Christ. I have chosen to remain, because my presence advances both your faith and your joy. What then? Did he remain for the sake of the Philippians only? He stayed not for their sake only; but this he says, that he may show regard to them. And how were they to "progress" in "the faith"? That you may be more strengthened, like young fowl, who need their mother until their feathers are set. This is a proof of his great love.
In saying “I know that I shall remain and continue with you all” he means: “I know that I shall escape the present danger, so as to be once again a source of profit and encouragement to you. So you will have received what you desire.” This prediction indeed came true. For he escaped the anger of Nero on the first occasion, as he shows in his letters to the blessed Timothy. … From Rome he went to Spain and took the gospel to them also, then returned and was only later beheaded.
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Summary
In Philippians 1:25, the Apostle Paul expresses a profound and divinely-imparted conviction that he will continue to live and minister among the Philippian believers. This certainty is not rooted in personal preference or presumptuousness, but in a clear understanding of God's sovereign purpose for his life, which is specifically for the spiritual advancement and deep-seated joy in the faith of the Philippian church. Paul's focus remains steadfastly on the well-being and growth of the believers, even amidst his own imprisonment and the personal dilemma of choosing between life and death for Christ.
Context
Literary Context
Philippians 1:25 is situated within Paul's deeply personal and pastoral introduction to his letter, specifically following his profound reflection on his imprisonment and the paradoxical nature of his circumstances. In the preceding verses (Philippians 1:21-24), Paul articulates his intense spiritual dilemma: whether to live and continue his fruitful ministry for Christ or to die and be immediately with Christ, which he considers "far better." This verse resolves that tension, indicating Paul's confidence, born of divine revelation or profound spiritual discernment, that God's plan for him involves continued earthly ministry. It sets the stage for Paul's subsequent exhortations and teachings, establishing his ongoing presence as a foundation for their spiritual growth.
Historical & Cultural Context
Paul wrote the letter to the Philippians while imprisoned, most likely in Rome, around A.D. 60-62. Despite his confinement, which would typically limit one's influence, Paul viewed his chains as an opportunity for the advancement of the gospel, as he states in Philippians 1:12-14. The Philippian church was a beloved congregation, unique in its consistent financial support of Paul's ministry. In the Roman world, imprisonment often led to execution or prolonged suffering, making Paul's conviction about his survival and continued ministry a remarkable statement of faith and divine assurance, rather than a mere hopeful wish. His confidence would have been a great encouragement to a church likely concerned for his welfare.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Philippians and Paul's broader theology. It underscores the theme of Divine Sovereignty and Purpose, demonstrating Paul's conviction that God's plan for his life, even in suffering, is for the good of His people, echoing principles found in Romans 8:28. It highlights the Selfless Nature of Apostolic Ministry, where Paul's personal desires are subordinated to the spiritual needs of the church, a motif central to his understanding of leadership as seen in 2 Corinthians 12:15. Furthermore, it emphasizes the Interconnectedness of the Body of Christ, illustrating how the continued presence and ministry of a mature leader directly contributes to the "furtherance and joy of faith" of the entire community, aligning with the concept of mutual edification described in Ephesians 4:16.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word, derived from a verb meaning "to convince" or "to persuade," here refers to Paul's state of being convinced or having a firm reliance. It implies an inward certainty or assurance, not a boastful presumption. Paul's "confidence" is a settled conviction, a deep-seated trust, likely stemming from a divine impression or a clear understanding of God's will for his ongoing ministry, rather than mere human optimism.
This primary verb signifies "to stay," "to remain," or "to continue in a given place, state, or relation." In this context, it speaks to Paul's physical presence and continued existence among the Philippians. It implies a stability and permanence in his relationship and ministry with them, contrasting with the potential for his departure through death mentioned in the preceding verses.
This noun denotes "progress" or "advancement," often used in the sense of cutting a path through obstacles or making headway. It describes the spiritual growth and progress of the Philippian believers. Paul's continued ministry is not merely for their maintenance but for their active movement forward in spiritual maturity, understanding, and application of the faith, clearing away any hindrances to their walk with God.
Verse Breakdown
"And having this confidence,"
Paul begins by anchoring his subsequent declaration in a deep, internal conviction. This "confidence" is not a wish or a guess, but a settled assurance, likely divinely revealed or discerned, regarding God's will for his immediate future. It speaks to his spiritual certainty despite his precarious physical circumstances.
"I know that I shall abide and continue with you all"
This clause reveals the content of Paul's confidence. The phrase "I know" (from eídō, to see, by implication, to know) indicates a clear, certain understanding. He is assured that he will physically remain alive ("abide") and continue his association and ministry ("continue with") the entire Philippian community. This statement directly addresses the dilemma he presented in Philippians 1:23-24, resolving it in favor of continued earthly life and ministry.
"for your furtherance and joy of faith;"
This final clause articulates the divine purpose behind Paul's continued existence and ministry. His survival is not for his own comfort or benefit, but specifically "for" (Greek eis, indicating purpose or result) the spiritual "furtherance" (progress, advancement) of the Philippians and for their "joy of faith." This highlights the selfless, Christ-centered motivation of Paul's apostolic calling, where his life is dedicated to fostering the spiritual growth and deep, abiding gladness that comes from a robust and active faith in Christ.
Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices to convey his message with clarity and impact. The verse demonstrates Apostolic Authority and Ethos, as Paul's personal "confidence" and "knowledge" lend significant weight to his declaration, establishing his credibility and genuine concern for the Philippians. There is an implied Antithesis with the preceding verses: while Paul personally desires to depart and be with Christ, his confidence here reveals that God's will for him is to remain, thereby setting up a contrast between personal preference and divine purpose. The phrase "for your furtherance and joy of faith" functions as a clear Purpose Clause, explicitly stating the reason and goal behind Paul's continued ministry, emphasizing the teleological nature of his life and work. This focus on the believers' benefit also exemplifies Pastoral Care and Selfless Devotion, which are central to Paul's communication style throughout his epistles.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Philippians 1:25 profoundly illustrates the principle of divine providence, where God orchestrates circumstances, even imprisonment and potential martyrdom, to fulfill His greater purposes for His people. Paul's conviction that he will "abide and continue" is not a mere human prediction but a Spirit-given assurance, demonstrating that God's plan for His servants often prioritizes the spiritual edification of the church over individual desires or comforts. This verse underscores the selfless nature of true spiritual leadership, where the leader's life and gifts are entirely consecrated to the growth and joy of the flock. It also highlights the essential interconnectedness within the body of Christ, where the health and advancement of one member, particularly a mature leader, directly contribute to the spiritual vitality of the entire community.
Reflection and Application
Paul's confidence in his continued ministry, despite facing the very real possibility of execution, offers a powerful model for believers today. It challenges us to consider our lives not merely as individual journeys, but as instruments in God's hands for the "furtherance and joy of faith" of others. This verse encourages us to cultivate a perspective where our gifts, resources, and even our trials are viewed as opportunities for God to work through us for the spiritual progress of the community. It reminds us that genuine Christian joy is often found not in self-preservation or personal comfort, but in witnessing and contributing to the spiritual growth of fellow believers. We are called to live with a selfless, outward-focused purpose, actively seeking ways to encourage, equip, and uplift those around us in their walk with Christ, recognizing that our individual spiritual health is deeply intertwined with the collective well-being of the body of Christ.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
How does Paul's "confidence" here relate to his earlier desire to depart and be with Christ?
Paul's "confidence" in Philippians 1:25 does not negate his deeply personal and sincere desire to "depart, and to be with Christ" as expressed in Philippians 1:23. Rather, it reveals a profound spiritual maturity and submission to God's sovereign will. Paul's personal preference was to be with Christ, which he considered "far better." However, he understood that remaining in the flesh was "more needful" for the Philippians' spiritual growth and joy (Philippians 1:24). His "confidence" is not a change of heart regarding his ultimate desire, but a divine assurance that God's immediate plan for him involved continued earthly ministry for the sake of the church. It demonstrates that while believers may have legitimate personal desires, ultimate joy and fulfillment come from aligning with and fulfilling God's greater purposes, especially when those purposes involve serving others.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Philippians 1:25, while speaking of Paul's personal ministry, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the very nature and mission of Jesus Himself. Paul's willingness to set aside his own desire for immediate heavenly rest for the sake of the church's "furtherance and joy of faith" profoundly mirrors Christ's self-emptying love. Jesus, "who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men" (Philippians 2:6-7), willingly endured the cross and remained on earth to accomplish salvation, not for His own benefit, but "that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly" (John 10:10). Christ's entire earthly ministry, culminating in His death and resurrection, was for the "furtherance" of humanity's reconciliation with God and for the "joy of faith" that comes through redemption. Just as Paul's continued presence was for the Philippians' growth, Christ's ongoing intercession and headship over His Church ensures its continuous spiritual progress and ultimate glorification, as He "loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it... that he might present it to himself a glorious church" (Ephesians 5:25-27). Thus, Paul's confidence and purpose reflect the very heart of Christ's mission for His people.