Philippians 1:15
Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:
Original Language Analysis
μὲν
indeed
G3303
μὲν
indeed
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
2 of 15
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
δι'
of
G1223
δι'
of
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
4 of 15
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
10 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
δι'
of
G1223
δι'
of
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
11 of 15
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
εὐδοκίαν
good will
G2107
εὐδοκίαν
good will
Strong's:
G2107
Word #:
12 of 15
satisfaction, i.e., (subjectively) delight, or (objectively) kindness, wish, purpose
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Philippians 2:3Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.2 Corinthians 11:13For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.Matthew 23:5But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,2 Corinthians 1:19For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not yea and nay, but in him was yea.2 Corinthians 4:5For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
Historical Context
Early Christian leadership involved competition for followers and honor, seen in Corinthian factionalism (1 Cor 1:10-17). Some Roman Christians may have been jealous of Paul's apostolic status or blamed his imprisonment for bringing persecution. Ancient honor-shame culture intensified rivalry. Paul's response—rejoicing in Christ preached despite impure motives—transcends cultural norms of revenge and reputation-defense.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond when others succeed in ministry from mixed or impure motives?
- Can you distinguish between doctrinal error (to oppose) and motivational impurity (to endure)?
- What does Paul's magnanimity teach about prioritizing gospel impact over personal recognition?
Analysis & Commentary
Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will (Τινὲς μὲν καὶ διὰ φθόνον καὶ ἔριν, τινὲς δὲ καὶ δι᾽ εὐδοκίαν τὸν Χριστὸν κηρύσσουσιν, Tines men kai dia phthonon kai erin, tines de kai di' eudokian ton Christon kēryssousin)—Paul distinguishes preachers by motive, not message. Both groups preach Christ (τὸν Χριστὸν κηρύσσουσιν, ton Christon kēryssousin), but from vastly different hearts. Phthonon ("envy, jealousy") and erin ("strife, contention") are fleshly motivations; eudokian ("good will, benevolence") springs from love.
The envious preachers likely resented Paul's prominence or saw his imprisonment as an opportunity to gain influence. Yet they proclaimed authentic Christology, else Paul couldn't rejoice (v. 18). This passage distinguishes gospel content (non-negotiable) from ministerial motive (evaluable but not disqualifying). Paul's magnanimity is remarkable—he prioritizes gospel advance over personal vindication.