Devine Scripture

Philippians 1:22

What does Philippians 1:22 mean?

A plain-English look at Philippians 1:22 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Philippians 1:22 means

If Paul continues living “in the flesh,” that means ongoing fruitful labor for Christ. Yet faced with the choice between fruitful service and departing to be with Christ, he confesses uncertainty about what to prefer. He measures options not by comfort but by gospel fruit and Christ’s presence. His dilemma is noble: both paths glorify Christ, one through continued ministry, the other through immediate communion with the Lord. This transparent struggle reveals a heart torn between serving others now and enjoying the consummation of hope. It models holding lightly to life while holding tightly to Christ and His purposes.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

But if to live in the flesh,—if this shall bring fruit from my work, then what I shall choose I know not.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

But if to live in the flesh,—if this shall bring fruit from my work, then what I shall choose I know not.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But if I go on living in the flesh--if this is the fruit of my work--then I do not see what decision to make.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And if to live in the flesh <FI>is<Fi> to me a fruit of work, then what shall I choose? I know not;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And if to live in the flesh: this is to me the fruit of labour. And what I shall choose I know not.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

but if to live in flesh [is my lot], this is for me worth the while: and what I shall choose I cannot tell.

Context

After declaring that life is Christ and death is gain (verse 21), Paul explores the practical implications. Fruitful ministry argues for staying; longing for Christ tugs toward departing. Verse 23 will intensify the pull toward being with Christ as “very far better,” while verse 24 will stress the necessity of remaining for the Philippians’ sake. Verses 25–26 will express his settled expectation to continue for their benefit.

v.21For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

v.22This passage

v.23But I am in a strait betwixt the two, having the desire to depart and be with Christ; for it is very far better:

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Acts 3:17

    And now, brethren, I know that in ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.

  • 1 Peter 4:2

    that ye no longer should live the rest of your time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.

  • Philippians 1:24

    yet to abide in the flesh is more needful for your sake.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:3

    For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh

  • Colossians 2:1

    For I would have you know how greatly I strive for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;

  • Psalms 71:18

    Yea, even when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not, Until I have declared thy strength unto the next generation, Thy might to every one that is to come.

Related questions readers ask

Keep reading

Want to dig deeper? Explore Philippians 1

Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Philippians 1.

Keep exploring

Follow this verse across Scripture

Topics, devotionals, original-language word studies, and figures connected to Philippians 1:22.

Browse every hub

BibleTopicsBible answersDevotionalsFamous passagesWord studiesPeoplePlacesVerses for…Reading plansCommentary