Bible Strands
Philippians 1:16
The latter do so in love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Philippian believers while imprisoned, noting that two distinct groups are preaching Christ with opposing attitudes toward his chains.
The words — ἀπολογίαν (apologian) translates literally to "defense," and ἐξ ἀγάπης (ex agapēs) means "out of love."
The thread — The contrast between sincere service and self-interest surfaces in 2 Corinthians 4:1, which describes maintaining ministerial integrity, and Job 6:14, which outlines the expectation of steadfast support during affliction.
Why it lands — The passage demands that readers separate the worth of a message from the personal motives of its messengers and accept external suffering as a fixed condition of their calling.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:
Cross-references
- 2 Corinthians 2:17 For we are not like so many others, who peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as men sent from God.
- 2 Corinthians 4:1 Therefore, since God in His mercy has given us this ministry, we do not lose heart.
- Job 6:14 A despairing man should have the kindness of his friend, even if he forsakes the fear of the Almighty.
- Psalms 69:26 For they persecute the one You struck and recount the pain of those You wounded.
- Philippians 1:7 It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart. For in my chains and in my defense and confirmation of the gospel, you are all partners in grace with me.
- Philippians 1:10 so that you may be able to test and prove what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,
- Philippians 1:12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that my circumstances have actually served to advance the gospel.
- Job 16:4 I could also speak like you if you were in my place; I could heap up words against you and shake my head at you.