Bible Commentary

For I am in a strait between two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: 23. For ] Read But, with conclusive evidence. The word here marks addition rather than distinction. An English writer would have dispensed with a transitional particle, probably. in a strait betwixt two ] … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Philippians 1:23”

But if I live in the flesh, this [is] the fruit of my labor: yet what I shall choose I wot not. 22. But if I live in the flesh, &c.] The Greek construction here is difficult by its brevity and abruptness. R.V. renders “ But if to live in this flesh if this is … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Philippians 1:22”

For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain. 21 26. The same subject: the Alternative of Life or Death: Expectation of Life 21. For, &c.] He takes up and expands the thought of the alternative just uttered, and the holy “indifference” with which he was able to meet it. to me … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Philippians 1:21”

According to my earnest expectation and [my] hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but [that] with all boldness, as always, [so] now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether [it be] by life, or by death. 20. According to ] He describes this “supply of the Spirit” by its longed for … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Philippians 1:20”

For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 19. For I know ] A development of the thought implied in “I shall rejoice,” just above. Subordinate to the supreme fact that “Christ is being proclaimed,” comes in here the delightful certainty … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Philippians 1:19”

What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretense, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. 18. What then? ] “What matters it? Qu’importe? ” The right order of the two previous verses gives full force to such a question. notwithstanding ] Better, only. With beautiful significance he … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Philippians 1:18”

But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the gospel. 17. I am set ] Lit., “ I lie.” But the A.V. and R.V. are right. See the same verb clearly in the same sense, Luk 2:34 ; 1Th 3:3. The thought is as of a soldier posted, a … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Philippians 1:17”

The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: 16. The one preach Christ, &c.] There is good critical evidence for reading Php 1:16-17 in the opposite order to that of the A.V. Render, with R.V., The one do it of love, knowing that I am set for the … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Philippians 1:16”

Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: 15. Some indeed ] Here he refers to members of that Judaistic party, or school, within the Church, which followed him with persistent opposition, especially since the crisis (Acts 15) when a decisive victory over their main principle was obtained … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Philippians 1:15”

And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. 14. many ] Better, most. It is noticeable that the Apostle should imply that there were exceptions. Possibly, he refers here to what comes out more clearly below, the difference between friendly … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Philippians 1:14”