Philippians 1:28

KJV

And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} in {G1722} nothing {G3367}{G3361} terrified {G4426} by {G5259} your adversaries {G480}: which {G3748} is {G2076} to them {G846}{G3303} an evident token {G1732} of perdition {G684}, but {G1161} to you {G5213} of salvation {G4991}, and {G2532} that {G5124} of {G575} God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

not frightened by anything the opposition does. This will be for them an indication that they are headed for destruction and you for deliverance. And this is from God;

Berean Standard Bible

without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a clear sign of their destruction but of your salvation, and it is from God.

American Standard Version

and in nothing affrighted by the adversaries: which is for them an evident token of perdition, but of your salvation, and that from God;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philippians 1:28 powerfully encourages believers to remain utterly undeterred by their adversaries, asserting that their steadfastness serves as a clear, divine indicator. For those who oppose the gospel, this unwavering faith is a manifest sign of their impending ruin, while for believers, it stands as an undeniable proof of their salvation, a salvation that originates from and is secured by God Himself.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's deeply personal and encouraging letter to the Philippian church, written from his imprisonment (likely in Rome). Despite his confinement, Paul maintains a joyful and confident tone, expressing his longing for the Philippians and his conviction that his imprisonment has actually served to advance the gospel ([Philippians 1:12-14](/philippians/1-12-14 "Philippians 1:12-14 - Paul's Imprisonment Advances the Gospel")). Immediately preceding this verse, Paul exhorts them to live lives [worthy of the gospel of Christ](/philippians/1-27 "Philippians 1:27 - Living Worthy of the Gospel"), standing firm in one spirit, contending as one for the faith of the gospel, and in no way intimidated by their opponents. Verse 28 elaborates on the profound spiritual implications of such steadfastness, providing both a warning to adversaries and an assurance to believers.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Philippi was a Roman colony, proud of its Roman citizenship and customs. This context meant that Christians in Philippi faced unique pressures. Their allegiance to Christ could be perceived as disloyalty to Caesar and Rome, potentially leading to social ostracism, economic hardship, or even legal persecution. Paul himself was a prisoner of Rome, and his situation underscored the reality of opposition. The "adversaries" mentioned could include Jewish opponents, pagan idolaters, or even Roman authorities who viewed Christianity as a disruptive or unlawful sect. The concept of an "evident token" would resonate in a society that valued public displays of loyalty and legal proofs.
* **Key Themes:** Philippians 1:28 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the letter. First, **fearless steadfastness** is paramount; Paul repeatedly calls for courage and unity in the face of external pressures ([Philippians 1:27](/philippians/1-27 "Philippians 1:27 - Living Worthy of the Gospel")). Second, the theme of **divine sovereignty and purpose** is evident, as Paul views even his imprisonment and the Philippians' suffering as part of God's plan for gospel advancement ([Philippians 1:12](/philippians/1-12 "Philippians 1:12 - Paul's Imprisonment for the Gospel")). Third, the verse highlights **assurance of salvation**, emphasizing that the believers' endurance is not merely human grit but a divinely enabled sign of their secure standing in Christ ([Philippians 2:12-13](/philippians/2-12-13 "Philippians 2:12-13 - Working Out Your Salvation")). Finally, it underscores the **contrasting destinies** of those who oppose God and those who faithfully follow Him, a theme common throughout biblical eschatology.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **terrified (Greek, _ptýrō'_):** This verb, from a presumed derivative of πτύω, means "to frighten," "to be startled," or "to be put to flight." Paul's command, "in nothing terrified," is a strong exhortation to maintain composure and courage, resisting any impulse to retreat or be intimidated by external threats or opposition. It speaks to an inner resolve that transcends fear.
* **evident token (Greek, _éndeixis'_):** Derived from ἐνδείκνυμι, this noun signifies an "indication," "declaration," or "proof." It denotes a clear, undeniable demonstration or sign. In this context, the steadfastness and fearlessness of the believers serve as a manifest, visible proof of profound spiritual realities to both their adversaries and themselves.
* **perdition (Greek, _apṓleia'_):** From a presumed derivative of ἀπόλλυμι, this term refers to "ruin," "loss," or "destruction," which can be physical, spiritual, or eternal. It signifies a state of being utterly undone, wasted, or eternally lost. The juxtaposition of this term with "salvation" highlights the ultimate, contrasting destinies revealed by the believers' conduct.
* **salvation (Greek, _sōtēría'_):** A feminine noun from a derivative of σωτήρ, meaning "rescue," "safety," or "deliverance." It encompasses comprehensive well-being, preservation, and the eternal life granted by God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And in nothing terrified by your adversaries:"** Paul begins with a powerful negative command, urging the Philippians not to be frightened or intimidated by those who oppose them. The phrase "in nothing" emphasizes the absolute nature of this fearlessness, implying that no form of opposition should cause them to waver or retreat. Their "adversaries" (Greek: _antikeimenois_) are those who set themselves against, oppose, or resist their faith and the gospel.
* **"which is to them an evident token of perdition,"** The unwavering, fearless stance of the believers serves as a clear, undeniable proof (an "evident token") to their adversaries. This token signifies the adversaries' ultimate ruin or destruction ("perdition"). Their inability to suppress or frighten God's people demonstrates that they are fighting against God Himself, thereby sealing their own doom.
* **"but to you of salvation,"** In stark contrast, this very same steadfastness acts as an equally clear and undeniable sign for the believers themselves. For them, it is a "token of salvation," confirming their secure standing in Christ and their ultimate deliverance. Their endurance is not merely human resilience but a divinely empowered confirmation of their eternal hope.
* **"and that of God."** This final phrase profoundly qualifies the nature of this salvation and the courage that evidences it. It is not a salvation earned by human effort or a courage born of mere willpower, but one that originates from, is sustained by, and ultimately belongs to God. This divine origin provides the ultimate assurance and foundation for both their steadfastness and their eternal destiny.

#### Literary Devices
Philippians 1:28 is rich in literary devices that amplify its message. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, the stark contrast between "perdition" for the adversaries and "salvation" for the believers. This dramatic opposition underscores the two ultimate and opposing spiritual destinies revealed by the believers' conduct. The phrase "evident token" functions as a form of **Metonymy** or **Symbolism**, where the believers' steadfastness itself becomes the tangible sign or proof of these unseen spiritual realities. Their courage is not just a characteristic but a divinely appointed indicator. Furthermore, there is an implied **Divine Passive** in "terrified" (ptýrō), suggesting that while adversaries may attempt to frighten, the believers' *un-terrified* state is a result of divine enablement. The concluding phrase, "and that of God," serves as a powerful **Affirmation** of divine agency, emphasizing that both the salvation and the strength to endure opposition are ultimately God's work, not human achievement.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly articulates the eschatological implications of present suffering and faithfulness. It reveals that the spiritual battle is not merely a human conflict but a cosmic drama with eternal consequences. The steadfastness of believers, empowered by God, becomes a visible signpost pointing to the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom and the certain judgment of those who oppose it. This provides immense comfort and assurance, reminding believers that their suffering is not in vain but is woven into God's sovereign plan, serving as a powerful witness and a confirmation of their secure, divinely-granted salvation.

* [2 Timothy 1:7](/2_timothy/1-7 "2 Timothy 1:7 - God Has Not Given Us a Spirit of Fear")
* [Romans 8:37-39](/romans/8-37-39 "Romans 8:37-39 - More Than Conquerors Through Christ")
* [Matthew 10:28](/matthew/10-28 "Matthew 10:28 - Do Not Fear Those Who Kill the Body")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world that often pressures believers to conform, compromise, or retreat, Philippians 1:28 serves as an enduring call to courageous faithfulness. It challenges us to examine our own responses to opposition, whether it be cultural ridicule, professional discrimination, or outright persecution. Our steadfastness, born not of human bravado but of divine strength, is a powerful testimony. It reminds us that our primary allegiance is to Christ, and our ultimate security rests in God's hands. When we stand firm, we not only affirm our own salvation but also provide a clear, undeniable witness to both the world's impending judgment and the glorious hope of the gospel. This verse encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, understanding that our present trials are momentary and light compared to the eternal weight of glory, and that our unwavering faith has profound, far-reaching spiritual implications for all who observe it.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "adversaries" or forms of opposition do you currently face in living out your faith, and how do you tend to respond?**
* **How does understanding that your steadfastness is an "evident token" of salvation for you, and perdition for your adversaries, change your perspective on challenges?**
* **In what practical ways can you cultivate a spirit of fearlessness that is "of God" rather than relying on your own strength?**

### FAQ
**What does "perdition" mean in the context of Philippians 1:28?**

Answer: In Philippians 1:28, "perdition" (Greek: _apōleia_) refers to the ultimate ruin, destruction, or eternal loss that awaits those who oppose God and His people. It signifies a state of being utterly undone, wasted, or eternally separated from God's presence. It is the antithesis of "salvation" and highlights the dire spiritual consequence for those who actively resist the gospel and persecute believers. This is not merely physical death but a comprehensive, spiritual, and eternal demise.

**How can believers be "in nothing terrified" when facing real threats?**

Answer: The command to be "in nothing terrified" does not imply a lack of natural human fear, but rather a refusal to be *controlled* or *intimidated* by it to the point of compromising one's faith or retreating from gospel witness. This fearlessness is not born of human strength or recklessness, but is "of God." It stems from a deep trust in God's sovereignty, His protective power, and the assurance of eternal salvation. It is a supernatural peace and courage that allows believers to stand firm even when circumstances are frightening, knowing that their ultimate destiny is secure in Christ. As [2 Timothy 1:7](/2_timothy/1-7 "2 Timothy 1:7 - God Has Not Given Us a Spirit of Fear") reminds us, "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philippians 1:28 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Christ. He is the supreme example of one "in nothing terrified by adversaries." From facing the temptations of Satan in the wilderness to enduring the hostility of religious leaders and the agony of the cross, Jesus remained steadfast, utterly committed to His Father's will ([Hebrews 12:2-3](/hebrews/12-2-3 "Hebrews 12:2-3 - Looking to Jesus, the Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith")). His unwavering obedience, even unto death, served as the ultimate "evident token." For His adversaries, His resurrection and ascension became the undeniable proof of their "perdition" and the judgment awaiting those who rejected Him ([Acts 2:23-24](/acts/2-23-24 "Acts 2:23-24 - Peter's Sermon on Pentecost")). Conversely, for all who believe, Christ's victory over sin, death, and the powers of darkness is the definitive "token of salvation," securing eternal life and deliverance ([Romans 6:23](/romans/6-23 "Romans 6:23 - The Wages of Sin and the Gift of God")). Our salvation and the courage to stand firm are entirely "of God" because they are rooted in the finished work of Christ, whose Spirit empowers us to live fearlessly, reflecting His own victorious life in the face of opposition ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World")). Thus, our steadfastness is a participation in Christ's own triumph, a living testament to His ultimate authority and the certainty of His return to judge the living and the dead.

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

2 Timothy 1:7

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

2 Timothy 1:8

Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;

Matthew 10:28

And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

2 Thessalonians 1:5

¶ [Which is] a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:

2 Thessalonians 1:6

Seeing [it is] a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;

2 Timothy 2:11

[It is] a faithful saying: For if we be dead with [him], we shall also live with [him]:

2 Timothy 2:12

If we suffer, we shall also reign with [him]: if we deny [him], he also will deny us: