Philippians 1:16
The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:
Original Language Analysis
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μὲν
The one
G3303
μὲν
The one
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.)
ἐξ
of
G1537
ἐξ
of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
3 of 15
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
ἐριθείας
contention
G2052
ἐριθείας
contention
Strong's:
G2052
Word #:
4 of 15
properly, intrigue, i.e., (by implication) faction
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
οἰόμενοι
supposing
G3633
οἰόμενοι
supposing
Strong's:
G3633
Word #:
10 of 15
to make like (oneself), i.e., imagine (be of the opinion)
ἐπιφέρειν
to add
G2018
ἐπιφέρειν
to add
Strong's:
G2018
Word #:
12 of 15
to bear upon (or further), i.e., adduce (personally or judicially (accuse, inflict)), superinduce
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
Roman legal proceedings depended partly on public perception and character witnesses. If rival Christian factions caused public scandal or doctrinal confusion, it could harm Paul's defense before Caesar. Yet Paul's confidence in sovereign providence (v. 12) meant even malicious preaching served God's purposes. His response models gospel-centeredness over self-protection.
Questions for Reflection
- Have you ever ministered with mixed motives, and how did God use it despite your impurity?
- How do you guard against 'selfish ambition' (eritheia) in Christian service or leadership?
- What does it reveal about Paul's character that he rejoices even when others try to afflict him?
Analysis & Commentary
The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds (οἱ μὲν ἐξ ἐριθείας τὸν Χριστὸν καταγγέλλουσιν, οὐχ ἁγνῶς, οἰόμενοι θλῖψιν ἐγείρειν τοῖς δεσμοῖς μου, hoi men ex eritheias ton Christon katangellousin, ouch hagnōs, oiomenoi thlipsin egeirein tois desmois mou)—Eritheias ("selfish ambition, rivalry") describes self-serving ministry. Ouch hagnōs ("not purely, with mixed motives") indicates tainted sincerity. These preachers suppose to add affliction to my bonds (οἰόμενοι θλῖψιν ἐγείρειν, oiomenoi thlipsin egeirein)—intending to worsen Paul's imprisonment.
Their strategy might involve drawing negative attention to Christianity, complicating Paul's legal defense, or causing emotional distress through rivalry. Oiomenoi ("supposing, thinking") may hint they were wrong about the effect—Paul rejoices anyway (v. 18). The text reveals how sinful motives can accompany orthodox proclamation, a sobering reminder that right doctrine doesn't guarantee right heart.