Philippians 1:17
But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.
Original Language Analysis
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐξ
the other of
G1537
ἐξ
the other of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
3 of 11
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
ἀγάπης,
love
G26
ἀγάπης,
love
Strong's:
G26
Word #:
4 of 11
love, i.e., affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast
εἰδότες
knowing
G1492
εἰδότες
knowing
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
5 of 11
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
6 of 11
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
εἰς
for
G1519
εἰς
for
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
7 of 11
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 11
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.Philippians 1:7Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.
Historical Context
Paul's defense before Caesar (Acts 25:11-12) was a high-stakes platform for gospel proclamation to Rome's highest authorities. Loving Christians recognized this providential opportunity and intensified evangelism to support Paul's mission. Apologia appears in 1 Peter 3:15 ("ready to give an answer") and describes both legal defense and theological explanation—Paul's trial was both.
Questions for Reflection
- How does love for Christ's servants produce theological insight into God's purposes?
- Do you view others' hardships as strategic appointments or tragic accidents?
- How can you support those 'set for the defense of the gospel' in your generation?
Analysis & Commentary
But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel (οἱ δὲ ἐξ ἀγάπης, εἰδότες ὅτι εἰς ἀπολογίαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου κεῖμαι, hoi de ex agapēs, eidotes hoti eis apologian tou euangeliou keimai)—Ex agapēs ("from love, out of love") identifies the pure motive contrasting with envy (v. 15) and selfish ambition (v. 16). These preachers know (εἰδότες, eidotes, perfect participle) with settled understanding Paul's divine appointment.
I am set for the defence of the gospel (εἰς ἀπολογίαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου κεῖμαι, eis apologian tou euangeliou keimai)—keimai ("I am appointed, destined, set in place") suggests divine positioning. Apologian ("defense") is legal terminology; Paul's trial becomes a gospel platform. The loving preachers recognize Paul's imprisonment as strategic, not accidental, and support rather than undermine his mission. Their love produces theological insight into God's sovereignty.