Devine Scripture

Philippians 1:23

What does Philippians 1:23 mean?

A plain-English look at Philippians 1:23 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Philippians 1:23 means

Paul is hard-pressed between two desires. On the one hand, he longs to depart and be with Christ, which he says is very far better. Death, for the believer, means immediate fellowship with the Lord—a gain surpassing all earthly ministry. This hope clarifies that the Christian’s ultimate prize is not release from pain but presence with Christ. Paul’s longing is Christ-centered, not escapist. At the same time, this desire does not cancel his sense of responsibility. The tension remains: a holy yearning for the consummation of union with Christ, held alongside love for the church’s ongoing good.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

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

KJV

King James Version · 1611

For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

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

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

I am in a hard position between the two, having a desire to go away and be with Christ, which is very much better:

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for I am pressed by the two, having the desire to depart, and to be with Christ, for it is far better,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But I am straitened between two: having a desire to be dissolved and to be with Christ, a thing by far the better.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But I am pressed by both, having the desire for departure and being with Christ, [for] [it is] very much better,

Context

This verse amplifies the “gain” of verse 21 by naming its content: being with Christ. It heightens the dilemma introduced in verse 22. Yet the following verse (24) will balance this by underscoring the Philippians’ need for Paul’s continued presence. Together, these verses prepare for Paul’s expectation in verses 25–26 that he will remain to promote their progress and joy, leading to renewed mutual boasting in Christ.

v.22But if to live in the flesh,—if this shall bring fruit from my work, then what I shall choose I know not.

v.23This passage

v.24yet to abide in the flesh is more needful for your sake.

Cross references

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

  • Luke 2:29

    Now lettest thou thy servant depart, Lord, According to thy word, in peace;

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:1

    For yourselves, brethren, know our entering in unto you, that it hath not been found vain:

  • Acts 7:59

    And they stoned Stephen, calling upon the Lord, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

  • 2 Timothy 4:6

    For I am already being offered, and the time of my departure is come.

  • John 12:26

    If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will the Father honor.

  • Psalms 73:24

    Thou wilt guide me with thy counsel, And afterward receive me to glory.

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