Philippians 2:23
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Philippians 2:23
23 Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me.
Chapter Context
Philippians 2 is a friendship epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of redemption, love, righteousness. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 2:23
23 Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me.
Analysis
Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me (Τοῦτον μὲν οὖν ἐλπίζω πέμψαι ὡς ἂν ἀφίδω τὰ περὶ ἐμὲ ἐξαυτῆς, Touton men oun elpizō pempsai hōs an aphidō ta peri eme exautēs)—Touton...elpizō pempsai ("him I hope to send") reiterates v. 19. Men oun ("therefore") draws conclusion from Timothy's commendation (vv. 20-22): because he's trustworthy, Paul will send him. Hōs an aphidō ("as soon as I see") makes timing conditional. Ta peri eme ("the things concerning me") refers to his trial outcome. Exautēs ("presently, immediately") promises prompt dispatch once clarity comes.
Paul's plans are flexible, contingent on circumstances. He awaits trial resolution before sending Timothy. This models Christian planning: purposeful but provisional, confident yet humble before providence. Paul trusts God's sovereignty (v. 19, "in the Lord Jesus") while actively planning. Faith doesn't eliminate planning but subordinates plans to God's will.
Historical Context
Roman legal proceedings were unpredictable in length and outcome. Paul's case had been pending (Acts 28:30 mentions two years). He couldn't send Timothy until knowing whether he'd be released (allowing personal visit, v. 24) or executed (making Timothy essential for Philippian care). Ancient communication delays made delegation timing crucial. Letters and envoys were primary pastoral tools.
Reflection
- How do you balance purposeful planning with submission to providence like Paul does?
- What pending outcomes are you awaiting before making decisions, and how do you wait faithfully?
- How does trusting 'in the Lord Jesus' (v. 19) shape your contingency planning?