Philippians 1:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Philippians 1:18
18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
Chapter Context
Philippians 1 is a friendship epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, grace, covenant. Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (c. 60-62 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church in this Roman colony maintained partnership with Paul despite his imprisonment.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Philippians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Philippians 1:18
18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
Analysis
What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice (Τί γάρ; πλὴν ὅτι παντὶ τρόπῳ, εἴτε προφάσει εἴτε ἀληθείᾳ, Χριστὸς καταγγέλλεται, καὶ ἐν τούτῳ χαίρω, Ti gar? plēn hoti panti tropō, eite prophasei eite alētheia, Christos katangelletai, kai en toutō chairō)—Ti gar? ("What then? What of it?") dismisses concern over motives. Plēn ("nevertheless, only this matters") focuses on the essential: Christ is preached (Χριστὸς καταγγέλλεται, Christos katangelletai, present passive).
Prophasei ("in pretense, as a pretext") versus alētheia ("in truth, sincerely") contrasts false and genuine motives. Paul's double affirmation—I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice (χαίρω, ἀλλὰ καὶ χαρήσομαι, chairō, alla kai charēsomai, present and future tenses)—shows settled, continuing joy. This remarkable magnanimity prioritizes gospel content and Christ's fame over personal honor. Where Christ is biblically proclaimed, Paul rejoices, whatever the preacher's motives.
Historical Context
Paul's response was countercultural in honor-shame societies where personal reputation and vindication were paramount. His Christ-centeredness relativized personal affronts. This verse also distinguishes content (Christology) from motive (psychology)—both matter, but content is primary. Paul would vigorously oppose false gospels (Gal 1:8-9) but tolerate impure motives if the gospel was true.
Reflection
- Can you rejoice when God is glorified through people you dislike or who oppose you?
- How do you balance Paul's magnanimity here with his anathema on false gospels (Gal 1:8)?
- What would it take for you to say 'I rejoice and will rejoice' about rivals in ministry?
Word Studies
- Truth: ἀλήθεια (Aletheia) G225 - Truth, reality
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Luke 9:50, 1 Corinthians 14:15, 15:11