Knowing The Word in Philippians 1:19-29, To Live is Christ

Yes, and I will rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers [human aid] and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ [divine aid; note that the Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son] this will turn out for my deliverance [perhaps from prison, or, ultimately, release from death for the believer], 20 as it is my eager expectation [of the future] and hope that I will not be at all ashamed [when he stands before the judges’ seat], but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. [Paul is giving us a double meaning in these verses about being judged by humans and about being judged ultimately by Christ. Now he proceeds to explain the dual view that all Christians are called to maintain.] 21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. [The gain Paul speaks of is twofold: first, receiving a resurrection body in front of his Lord and second, having to die as a martyr for the faith, which helps to spread the gospel.] 22 If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. [“I dare not make my preference know to you.”] 23 I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. [This verse denies purgatorial existence. At death we go to be with Jesus, not wait to be with Jesus at some time in the future.] 24 But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. [There are down-to-earth needs for him to be with his flock.] 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again. [Paul seems to have a renewed confidence. His coming back to Philippi would give witness to the power of God.]

Prayer

The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.