Philippians 1:23
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For I am in a strait betwixt two - Viz. the dying now, and being immediately with God; or living longer to preach and spread the Gospel, and thus glorify Christ among men. Having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ - Την επιθυμιαν εχων εις το αναλυσαι. It appears to be a metaphor taken from the commander of a vessel, in a foreign port, who feels a strong desire αναλυσαι, to set sail, and get to his own country and family; but this desire is counterbalanced by a conviction that the general interests of the voyage may be best answered by his longer stay in the port where his vessel now rides; for he is not in dock, he is not aground, but rides at anchor in the port, and may any hour weigh and be gone. Such was the condition of the apostle: he was not at home, but although he was abroad it was on his employer's business; he wishes to return, and is cleared out and ready to set sail, but he has not received his last orders from his owner, and whatever desire he may feel to be at home he will faithfully wait till his final orders arrive. Which is far better - Πολλῳ - μαλλον κρεισσον· Multo magis melior, Vulgate; much more better. The reader will at once see that the words are very emphatic.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--The oldest manuscripts read, "But." "I know not (Phi 1:22), BUT am in a strait (am perplexed) betwixt the two (namely, 'to live' and 'to die'), having the desire for departing (literally, 'to loose anchor,' Ti2 4:6) and being with Christ; FOR (so the oldest manuscripts) it is by far better"; or as the Greek, more forcibly, "by far the more preferable"; a double comparative. This refutes the notion of the soul being dormant during its separation from the body. It also shows that, while he regarded the Lord's advent as at all times near, yet that his death before it was a very possible contingency. The partial life eternal is in the interval between death and Christ's second advent; the perfectional, at that advent [BISHOP PEARSON]. To depart is better than to remain in the flesh; to be with Christ is far, far better; a New Testament hope (Heb 12:24), [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I am in a strait betwixt two,.... Life and death; or between these "two counsels", as the Arabic version reads; two thoughts and desires of the mind, a desire to live for the reasons above, and a desire to die for a reason following. The apostle was pressed with a difficulty in his mind about this, as David was when he was bid to choose which he would, either seven years' famine, or three months' flight before his enemies, or three days' pestilence; upon which he said, I am in a great strait, Sa2 24:14; to which passage it is thought the apostle alludes; the same word as here is used by Christ, Luk 12:50, having a desire to depart; to die, a way of speaking much in use with the Jews, as expressive of death; thus Abraham is represented by them speaking after this manner on account of his two sons Isaac and Ishmael, the one being righteous and the other wicked (c), "says he, if I bless Isaac, lo, Ishmael will seek to be blessed, and he is wicked; but a servant am I, flesh and blood am I, and tomorrow , "I shall depart out of the world", or "die"; and what pleases the holy blessed God himself in his own world, let him do: "when Abraham was dismissed" or "departed", the holy blessed God appeared to Isaac and blessed him: and again it is said (d), "iniquities are not atoned for, until , "a man is dismissed", or "departs out of the world"; and once more (e), "when a man , "departs out of this world"; according to his merit he ascends above; See Gill on Joh 13:1; the same word is used in the Syriac version here; death is departing out of this life, a going out of the body, a removal out of this world; it is like moving from one place to another, from the world below to the world above; with the saints it is no other than a removing from one house to another, from the earthly house of their tabernacle, the body, to their Father's house, and the mansions of glory in it, preparing for them. Death is not an annihilation of men, neither of soul nor body; it is a separation of them, but not a destruction of either; it is a dissolution of the union between them for a while, when both remain in a separate state till the resurrection: now this the apostle had a desire unto, which was not a new and sudden motion of mind; it was a thought that had long dwelt with him, and still continued; and this desire after death was not for the sake of death, for death in itself is a king of terrors, very formidable and terrible, and not desirable; it is an enemy, the last enemy that shall be destroyed; it is contrary to nature, and to desire it is contrary to a first principle in nature, self-preservation; but death is desired for some other end; wicked men desire it, and desire others to put an end to their lives, or do it themselves to free them from some trouble they are in; or because they are not able to support under a disappointment of what their ambition or lust have prompted them to: good men desire death, though always when right, with a submission to the will of God, that they may be rid of sin, which so much dishonours God as well as distresses themselves; and that they may be clothed upon with the shining robes of immortality and glory; and as the apostle here, to be with Christ: for the former clause is to be strictly connected with this; he did not desire merely to depart this life, but chiefly to be with Christ, and the former only in order to the latter; the saints are in Christ now, chosen in him, set upon his heart, and put into his hands, are created in him, and brought to believe in him, and are in him as branches in the vine; and he is in them, formed in their hearts, lives and dwells in them by faith, and they have sometimes communion with him in private duties and public worship; he comes into them and sups with them, and they with him: but this is only at times, he is as a wayfaring man that continues but for a night; hence the present state of the saints is a state of absence from Christ; while they are at home in the body, they are absent from the Lord, especially as to his bodily presence; but after death they are immediately with him, where he is in his human nature; and their souls in their separate state continue with him till the resurrection morn, when their bodies will be raised and reunited to their souls, and be both for ever with him, beholding his glory, and enjoying uninterrupted communion with him; which will be the completion and full end of Christ's preparations and prayers: hence it appears that there is a future being and state after death: the apostle desires to depart this life, and "be", exist, be somewhere, "with Christ"; for the only happy being after death is with him; if souls are not with him, they are with devils and damned spirits, in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone: and it is also manifest that souls do not sleep with the body in the grave until the resurrection; the souls of the saints are immediately with Christ, in the enjoyment of his presence, in happiness and glory, hoping, believing, and waiting for the resurrection of their bodies; had the apostle known that he must have remained after death in a state of inactivity and uselessness, deprived of the communion of Christ and of his church, it would have been no difficulty with him to determine which was most eligible, to live or die; and it would have been much better for him, and more to the advantage of the churches, if he had continued upon earth to this day, than to be sleeping in his grave, senseless and inactive; whereas he adds, which is far better: to depart and be with Christ is better than to live in the flesh in this sinful world, in the midst of a variety of sorrows and troubles, and in which communion with Christ is but now and then enjoyed, though such a life is better than sleeping in the grave; but upon a soul's departure and being with Christ, it is free from sin and sorrow, and in the utmost pleasure, enjoying communion with him without interruption; and this is better than labouring in the ministry: for though no man took more pleasure in the work of the ministry than the apostle did, and no man's ministry was more profitable and useful; yet it was toilsome, laborious, and wearisome to the flesh; wherefore dying and being with Jesus could not but be desirable, since he should then rest from his labours, and his works would follow him; at least it was better for him, and so the Syriac version adds, "to me", far better for me; and so the Arabic: to live longer might be better and more to the advantage of Christ, the glory of his name, the good of his churches, it might be better for others; but leaving the world and being with Christ were better for him; and this was an argument swaying on the side of death, and inclining him to desire that, and made it so difficult with him what to choose, (c) Bemidbar Rabba, sect. 11. fol. 202. 3. (d) Zohar in Numb. fol. 51. 3. (e) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 2. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:23 I long to go and be with Christ: Death leads believers immediately into the Lord’s presence (cp. 3:20-21; 1 Cor 15:20-23, 51-52; 2 Cor 5:1-8; 1 Thes 4:13-17).
Philippians 1:23
To Live Is Christ
22But if I go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. So what shall I choose? I do not know.23I am torn between the two. I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better indeed.24But it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Between Death and Resurrection - Part 2
By David Pawson5.8K17:30ResurrectionMAT 25:46LUK 16:22JHN 8:56PHP 1:23HEB 9:27HEB 12:221PE 3:19In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of regret and the certainty of the afterlife. He emphasizes that once a person is in the prison of death, there is no going back to life or forward to paradise. The preacher also addresses questions about the interval between death and resurrection. He explains that the ultimate destiny of individuals in this interval is determined by their response to Christ and the light they have received in their lives. The preacher concludes by stating that our actions in this life not only determine our destiny in the afterlife but also impact the intermediate stage between death and resurrection.
Our Last Enemy Death
By Bill McLeod1.8K18:25DeathMAT 10:32MAT 22:31ROM 14:12PHP 1:23HEB 9:27REV 3:19REV 12:11In this sermon, Bill McCloud discusses the topic of death and its significance according to the Bible. He emphasizes that death is an appointment made by God that no one can escape. He highlights the importance of being prepared for death and the judgment that follows, as stated in Hebrews 9 and Romans 14. McCloud also emphasizes the opportunity for salvation and fellowship with Jesus Christ, as mentioned in Revelation 3. He concludes by reassuring believers that nothing can separate them from the love of God, as stated in Romans 8.
In Light of the Ressurection
By J. Glyn Owen1.6K46:50ResurrectionMAT 11:28JHN 12:3JHN 19:30ROM 6:23PHP 1:23HEB 9:271PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for sinners to come to Christ for salvation. He highlights that sin is a serious matter and that preaching about forgiveness and love alone is not enough. The New Testament presents a somber note, addressing the need for guidance, the privilege of service, and the plight of the lost. The preacher also encourages believers to have a heavenly mindset and to have a personal relationship with Christ. The sermon contrasts the hope and expectation experienced by New Testament believers with the aimlessness and lack of purpose seen in contemporary society.
Spurgeon a New Biography #7
By C.H. Spurgeon1.6K35:12MAT 24:44JHN 3:16JHN 14:61CO 15:55EPH 2:8PHP 1:23HEB 9:27The sermon transcripts describe the funeral service and interment of a pastor named Spurgeon. The sermon was preached by Dr. Pearson, who spoke of Spurgeon's genius in the intellectual, moral, and spiritual spheres. The transcripts also mention the impact Spurgeon had on others, infusing his love for souls into the hearts of missionary workers and inspiring them to bring members to the church. The sermon emphasizes Spurgeon's ability to meet people where they were and bring them to a place of joy and redemption.
Friendship With God in Prayer
By Bill McLeod1.5K50:33Friend Of GodJER 17:12CO 3:18PHP 1:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with God and listening to His voice. He highlights the need to be still and quiet in order to hear from God. The speaker also encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God over worldly distractions and busyness. He shares a story of a young black man who felt called to be a pastor shortly after his conversion, highlighting the importance of God's guidance in our lives. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the need to watch and pray, and to give God our undivided attention.
The Humility of God
By Dean Stump1.4K1:15:23HumilityZEC 4:10MAT 6:33LUK 16:102CO 4:18PHP 1:231TI 4:12JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the humility of God and how it should be reflected in our lives. He refers to Zechariah chapter four, highlighting the attention to detail that God has and how we should also pay attention to the small things in life. The preacher encourages the audience not to despise the day of small things, emphasizing the importance of how we live our lives, spend our money, and use our time. He shares a personal story of a friend who nearly died and questions why it takes such experiences for us to see God in a greater way.
Discarding Rubbish and Gaining Christ
By Zac Poonen9331:06:09LUK 16:15JHN 17:3ROM 8:16PHP 1:23PHP 3:8PHP 3:10COL 1:9This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking to know Christ deeply and fully, comparing the attitudes of minimum Christians who do the least for God and maximum Christians who seek to do the most for Him. It challenges listeners to evaluate their values, seeing everything the world offers as rubbish compared to Christ, and to live wholeheartedly for Him, like Paul did, seeking to know Him better each day.
Will I See My Loved One Again?
By Welcome Detweiler69510:08JHN 5:29JHN 8:21PHP 1:23REV 20:12In this sermon, the speaker addresses the question of whether we will see our loved ones again after death. He acknowledges that we cannot ask angels, demons, or men who have returned from the grave for an answer. The speaker emphasizes that those who choose to be lost and reject the gospel will face punishment from God. He explains that upon death, unsaved individuals will open their eyes in hell and remain there until the judgment at the great white throne. Ultimately, those whose names are not written in the book of life will be cast into the lake of fire, which is the second death. The speaker urges listeners to choose their eternal destiny by accepting Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
The Sparkling Diamond in the Ring of Glory!
By Thomas Brooks0Eternal GloryCommunion with ChristPSA 16:11MAT 28:20JHN 14:3JHN 17:24ROM 8:182CO 5:8PHP 1:231TH 4:17HEB 12:2REV 21:3Thomas Brooks emphasizes the deep desire of Christ for communion with His people, illustrating that true happiness for believers lies in being in His presence both now and in heaven. He highlights that Christ's joy is incomplete without His followers, as He longs for them to share in His glory. The ultimate fulfillment of this desire will be realized in heaven, where believers will enjoy perfect fellowship with Christ, beholding His glory without any hindrance. Brooks describes this communion as the 'sparkling diamond in the ring of glory,' signifying its unparalleled value and beauty. The sermon encourages believers to anticipate the joy of eternal communion with Christ.
Look Upon Death
By Thomas Brooks0DeathEternal LifePSA 116:15ECC 7:1MIC 2:10JHN 11:25ROM 6:231CO 15:542CO 5:8PHP 1:23HEB 2:14REV 21:4Thomas Brooks emphasizes the perspective of viewing death as a blessing rather than a fear, asserting that a believer's dying day is the best day, marking the transition to eternal glory. He illustrates that death serves as a remedy, curing both physical ailments and spiritual sins, thus liberating the believer from all forms of suffering. Brooks encourages Christians to embrace death as a rest from the trials of life, highlighting that it leads to a state of eternal peace and joy in the presence of Christ. He reminds the faithful that death is not an end, but a beginning of a glorious existence free from sin and suffering.
The Glorious State of the Saints in Heaven.
By John Gill0HeavenAssurance of SalvationPSA 84:11JHN 14:2ROM 8:302CO 5:1PHP 1:232TI 4:8HEB 12:281PE 1:41JN 2:25REV 21:18John Gill preaches about the glorious state of the saints in heaven, emphasizing the reality and certainty of this ultimate glory that begins at death and culminates in the resurrection. He describes heaven as a place of eternal joy, peace, and communion with God, where believers will be free from sin and suffering, and will enjoy a perfect relationship with Christ and fellow saints. Gill highlights that this glory is promised by God, prepared for the faithful, and is the inheritance of those who have received His grace. He encourages listeners to seek this grace and live in a manner worthy of their calling, as the assurance of their future glory is rooted in their faith in Christ.
Devour Me, Devour Me!
By Thomas Brooks0Assurance in ChristThe Nature of DeathPSA 116:15ISA 25:8JHN 11:25ROM 6:231CO 15:55PHP 1:231TH 4:142TI 4:7HEB 2:14REV 21:4Thomas Brooks emphasizes that assurance in Christ transforms the perception of death from a fearsome enemy into a welcomed friend. He illustrates how assurance sweetens the thoughts of death, making it a desirable release from sin, sorrow, and affliction, while also being a gateway to eternal joy with God. Brooks quotes Nazianzen, who boldly invites death to 'devour' him, highlighting the Christian's hope in the resurrection and the ultimate victory over sin. The assured soul looks forward to death as a day of liberation, where all that burdens them will be left behind. Thus, for the believer, death is not to be feared but embraced as a passage to eternal life with Christ.
The Flesh and Salvation
By Watchman Nee0LUK 22:15ROM 6:12ROM 13:14PHP 1:231TH 2:17TIT 2:121PE 2:11In the sermon 'Lusts', the preacher delves into the concept of epithumia, a term used in the Bible to describe strong desires or impulses, both good and evil, directed towards an object. While occasionally used in a positive sense, most often epithumia refers to perverted and unrestrained desires originating from our sinful nature. The sermon emphasizes the importance of believers resisting and fleeing from lusts, which can lead to spiritual decay and bondage, urging them to pursue righteousness, faith, and godliness instead. Various Bible verses and quotes are used to illustrate the detrimental effects of lusts and the need for believers to rely on God's grace to overcome them.
The Family of God
By J.C. Ryle0Eternal SecurityFamily Of GodJHN 1:13ROM 8:151CO 2:9GAL 3:26EPH 3:15PHP 1:23HEB 12:231PE 1:52PE 1:11REV 7:9J.C. Ryle emphasizes the significance of belonging to the family of God, contrasting it with earthly families that often face sorrow and separation. He describes the family of God as comprising all true believers, united by one Father and one Savior, Jesus Christ, and highlights the privileges and future prospects of this divine family. Ryle encourages readers to recognize their membership in this family, which offers eternal security and joy, and to live in a manner that reflects their identity as children of God. He calls for a deep reflection on one's relationship with God and the importance of being part of this eternal family, especially during family gatherings.
Life in Heaven
By Mary Wilder Tileston0JHN 12:241CO 15:42PHP 1:21PHP 1:23Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the perspective of a Christian on life and death, emphasizing the joy and anticipation of departing from this world to be with Christ in a far better place. She highlights the willingness to endure sorrow and suffering on earth knowing that it leads to a glorious eternity with loved ones and an intensified life in a world fitted for highest life. Tileston uses the analogy of a seed's hidden life underground, preparing to bloom into a flower in the sunshine, to illustrate the transformative nature of death into the life of heaven.
The Lord's Coming, as It Will Affect the Assembly
By H.J. Vine0ACT 1:11EPH 1:13PHP 1:231TH 4:152TH 3:52PE 3:15REV 3:10REV 19:7REV 21:2H.J. Vine preaches on the imminent return of the Lord Jesus Christ, emphasizing that He Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, and believers will be caught up to meet Him in the air. The joy of the Lord in having His redeemed ones with Him will be beyond measure, fulfilling His sufferings on the cross. Despite uncertainties and fears, believers are encouraged to trust in Christ's perfect love that casts out all fear and eagerly await His coming to take them to be with Him forever.
A Sermon Occasioned by the Death of Mr. Aaron Spurrier, Baptist Minister.
By John Gill0DeathEternal LifeISA 40:11JER 31:3MAT 9:38LUK 23:431CO 15:262CO 5:1PHP 1:231TH 4:14HEB 2:15JAS 4:14John Gill reflects on the life and death of Mr. Aaron Spurrier, emphasizing the apostle Paul's desire to depart and be with Christ as a profound truth for believers. He highlights the transient nature of life and the ultimate joy of being united with Christ after death, which Mr. Spurrier longed for as he completed his earthly ministry. Gill encourages the congregation to recognize the providence of God in Spurrier's passing and to find comfort in the hope of eternal life. He reminds them that while they mourn their loss, they should also celebrate the legacy of faith and service left behind by their pastor. The sermon serves as a call to remain steadfast in their faith and to seek God's guidance in the face of loss.
The Mental Agonies of Hell
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0Eternal ConsequencesUrgency of SalvationGEN 15:1PSA 73:26PRO 15:11JER 6:30MAT 25:412CO 5:8PHP 1:232TH 1:92TI 4:8REV 3:20Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes the urgency of seeking the kingdom of heaven, drawing from Paul's example of striving for spiritual assurance and discipline even after conversion. He warns of the dire consequences of being a 'castaway,' highlighting the mental agonies of hell, where the unrepentant will be eternally separated from God's presence, favor, and blessings. M'Cheyne illustrates that the wicked will face not only the absence of joy and comfort but also the torment of their own memories and conscience. He urges both believers to remain vigilant in their faith and the ungodly to turn to Christ before it is too late, reminding them of the love of Christ who bore the weight of being a castaway for their salvation.
To Die Is Gain?
By David Wilkerson0DeathEternal LifeMAT 6:19JHN 11:25ROM 8:181CO 15:542CO 4:17PHP 1:21PHP 1:231TH 4:13HEB 2:14REV 21:4David Wilkerson emphasizes Paul's perspective on death, stating that for believers, to die is gain as it leads to being with Christ, which is far better than earthly life. He contrasts the early Christians' understanding of death with modern attitudes, highlighting how materialism has made death a taboo subject. Wilkerson argues that many Christians are trapped by their love for worldly possessions, fearing death as a loss rather than seeing it as a passage to eternal glory. He encourages believers to embrace the call to forsake worldly entanglements and to understand that true life is found in Christ, not in material wealth. Ultimately, he reminds us that resurrection, not death, is the ultimate healing and hope for believers.
Of the Death of the Body.
By John Gill0Hope in Eternal LifeThe Nature of DeathGEN 3:19JOB 14:5ECC 12:7LUK 20:36ROM 6:232CO 5:1PHP 1:231TH 4:14HEB 9:27JAS 2:26John Gill addresses the concept of physical death, distinguishing it from spiritual death and emphasizing that it is a separation of the soul and body. He explores the nature of death, its inevitability for all humans regardless of status or age, and the divine sovereignty behind it. Gill explains that while death is a consequence of sin, it is also a necessary transition for believers, leading them to eternal life with Christ. He reassures that death, though formidable, is ultimately a blessing for the righteous, as it frees them from sin and sorrow.
And I Looked, And, Lo, a Lamb Stood on the Mount Sion
By C.H. Spurgeon0Eternal Fellowship with ChristThe Lamb of GodPSA 16:11JHN 1:29JHN 14:3ROM 8:382CO 5:8PHP 1:231TH 4:17HEB 12:2REV 5:12REV 21:3C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the centrality of Christ, the Lamb of God, in the heavenly realm, as revealed to the apostle John. He highlights that the Lamb is the focal point of joy and worship for all in heaven, and that believers can find solace in knowing they have seen the Lamb who takes away their sins. Spurgeon encourages Christians to rejoice in their relationship with Jesus, asserting that true heaven is being in His presence. He quotes Rutherford to illustrate that being with Christ is the essence of heaven, and without Him, even the most beautiful place would feel like hell. Ultimately, Spurgeon reassures believers that their greatest blessing is to dwell with Christ eternally.
The People Who Receive the Saints' Rest
By Richard Baxter0MRK 2:17LUK 12:32LUK 17:21JHN 3:3ACT 7:59EPH 1:4PHP 1:232TH 1:7HEB 4:9REV 5:9Richard Baxter preaches about the heavenly rest designed for the people of God, who are chosen by God before the foundation of the world and are born again spiritually. These individuals experience conviction of sin, their own insufficiency, and are convinced of the full sufficiency of Jesus Christ. The will of the people of God is changed by their conviction, leading them to accept Christ as Savior and Lord with their whole soul. Baxter urges self-examination to see if one truly belongs to the people of God and emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ and enduring to the end.
Where Will You Spend Eternity?
By R.A. Torrey0SalvationEternityISA 53:5MAT 25:46JHN 3:36JHN 8:24JHN 16:5ROM 6:232CO 5:10PHP 1:232TI 4:7REV 20:15R.A. Torrey emphasizes the critical question of where one will spend eternity, urging listeners to confront the reality of eternal life and the importance of making preparations for it. He explains that eternity is certain and that everyone must spend it somewhere, either in heaven or hell, based on their choices in this life. Torrey stresses that the question of eternal destiny is far more significant than earthly concerns and that it is possible to know one's eternal fate through faith in Jesus Christ. He warns against the folly of dismissing this question lightly and encourages individuals to consider their relationship with Christ as the determining factor for their eternal destination.
The Dirty Lane
By Thomas Brooks0DeathEternal LifeLUK 12:321CO 9:242CO 5:1PHP 1:21PHP 1:232TI 4:8HEB 12:28JAS 1:121PE 5:4REV 2:10Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound gain that comes through death for a Christian, as expressed in Philippians 1:21. He argues that while life in Christ is valuable, being with Christ after death is the ultimate blessing, as highlighted in Philippians 1:23. Brooks encourages believers to view death as a necessary passage to receive eternal crowns and a glorious kingdom, portraying it as the 'dirty lane' that leads to everlasting joy and peace. He reassures that through death, Christians transition from mortality to immortality, ultimately joining the marriage-supper of the Lamb.
Letters to Olympias - Part 1
By St. John Chrysostom0JOB 2:41CO 5:51CO 11:302CO 12:9PHP 1:231TI 5:23John Chrysostom addresses the deaconess Olympias, encouraging her to endure suffering with patience and faith. He reminds her of the trials faced by Job and Lazarus, emphasizing that bodily infirmity can be a means of purification and a source of great reward. Chrysostom highlights the importance of enduring physical afflictions, even when desiring death, as a way to strengthen faith and trust in God's providence. He draws parallels to the sufferings of Paul and Timothy, showing how enduring trials can lead to spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God's grace.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For I am in a strait betwixt two - Viz. the dying now, and being immediately with God; or living longer to preach and spread the Gospel, and thus glorify Christ among men. Having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ - Την επιθυμιαν εχων εις το αναλυσαι. It appears to be a metaphor taken from the commander of a vessel, in a foreign port, who feels a strong desire αναλυσαι, to set sail, and get to his own country and family; but this desire is counterbalanced by a conviction that the general interests of the voyage may be best answered by his longer stay in the port where his vessel now rides; for he is not in dock, he is not aground, but rides at anchor in the port, and may any hour weigh and be gone. Such was the condition of the apostle: he was not at home, but although he was abroad it was on his employer's business; he wishes to return, and is cleared out and ready to set sail, but he has not received his last orders from his owner, and whatever desire he may feel to be at home he will faithfully wait till his final orders arrive. Which is far better - Πολλῳ - μαλλον κρεισσον· Multo magis melior, Vulgate; much more better. The reader will at once see that the words are very emphatic.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--The oldest manuscripts read, "But." "I know not (Phi 1:22), BUT am in a strait (am perplexed) betwixt the two (namely, 'to live' and 'to die'), having the desire for departing (literally, 'to loose anchor,' Ti2 4:6) and being with Christ; FOR (so the oldest manuscripts) it is by far better"; or as the Greek, more forcibly, "by far the more preferable"; a double comparative. This refutes the notion of the soul being dormant during its separation from the body. It also shows that, while he regarded the Lord's advent as at all times near, yet that his death before it was a very possible contingency. The partial life eternal is in the interval between death and Christ's second advent; the perfectional, at that advent [BISHOP PEARSON]. To depart is better than to remain in the flesh; to be with Christ is far, far better; a New Testament hope (Heb 12:24), [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I am in a strait betwixt two,.... Life and death; or between these "two counsels", as the Arabic version reads; two thoughts and desires of the mind, a desire to live for the reasons above, and a desire to die for a reason following. The apostle was pressed with a difficulty in his mind about this, as David was when he was bid to choose which he would, either seven years' famine, or three months' flight before his enemies, or three days' pestilence; upon which he said, I am in a great strait, Sa2 24:14; to which passage it is thought the apostle alludes; the same word as here is used by Christ, Luk 12:50, having a desire to depart; to die, a way of speaking much in use with the Jews, as expressive of death; thus Abraham is represented by them speaking after this manner on account of his two sons Isaac and Ishmael, the one being righteous and the other wicked (c), "says he, if I bless Isaac, lo, Ishmael will seek to be blessed, and he is wicked; but a servant am I, flesh and blood am I, and tomorrow , "I shall depart out of the world", or "die"; and what pleases the holy blessed God himself in his own world, let him do: "when Abraham was dismissed" or "departed", the holy blessed God appeared to Isaac and blessed him: and again it is said (d), "iniquities are not atoned for, until , "a man is dismissed", or "departs out of the world"; and once more (e), "when a man , "departs out of this world"; according to his merit he ascends above; See Gill on Joh 13:1; the same word is used in the Syriac version here; death is departing out of this life, a going out of the body, a removal out of this world; it is like moving from one place to another, from the world below to the world above; with the saints it is no other than a removing from one house to another, from the earthly house of their tabernacle, the body, to their Father's house, and the mansions of glory in it, preparing for them. Death is not an annihilation of men, neither of soul nor body; it is a separation of them, but not a destruction of either; it is a dissolution of the union between them for a while, when both remain in a separate state till the resurrection: now this the apostle had a desire unto, which was not a new and sudden motion of mind; it was a thought that had long dwelt with him, and still continued; and this desire after death was not for the sake of death, for death in itself is a king of terrors, very formidable and terrible, and not desirable; it is an enemy, the last enemy that shall be destroyed; it is contrary to nature, and to desire it is contrary to a first principle in nature, self-preservation; but death is desired for some other end; wicked men desire it, and desire others to put an end to their lives, or do it themselves to free them from some trouble they are in; or because they are not able to support under a disappointment of what their ambition or lust have prompted them to: good men desire death, though always when right, with a submission to the will of God, that they may be rid of sin, which so much dishonours God as well as distresses themselves; and that they may be clothed upon with the shining robes of immortality and glory; and as the apostle here, to be with Christ: for the former clause is to be strictly connected with this; he did not desire merely to depart this life, but chiefly to be with Christ, and the former only in order to the latter; the saints are in Christ now, chosen in him, set upon his heart, and put into his hands, are created in him, and brought to believe in him, and are in him as branches in the vine; and he is in them, formed in their hearts, lives and dwells in them by faith, and they have sometimes communion with him in private duties and public worship; he comes into them and sups with them, and they with him: but this is only at times, he is as a wayfaring man that continues but for a night; hence the present state of the saints is a state of absence from Christ; while they are at home in the body, they are absent from the Lord, especially as to his bodily presence; but after death they are immediately with him, where he is in his human nature; and their souls in their separate state continue with him till the resurrection morn, when their bodies will be raised and reunited to their souls, and be both for ever with him, beholding his glory, and enjoying uninterrupted communion with him; which will be the completion and full end of Christ's preparations and prayers: hence it appears that there is a future being and state after death: the apostle desires to depart this life, and "be", exist, be somewhere, "with Christ"; for the only happy being after death is with him; if souls are not with him, they are with devils and damned spirits, in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone: and it is also manifest that souls do not sleep with the body in the grave until the resurrection; the souls of the saints are immediately with Christ, in the enjoyment of his presence, in happiness and glory, hoping, believing, and waiting for the resurrection of their bodies; had the apostle known that he must have remained after death in a state of inactivity and uselessness, deprived of the communion of Christ and of his church, it would have been no difficulty with him to determine which was most eligible, to live or die; and it would have been much better for him, and more to the advantage of the churches, if he had continued upon earth to this day, than to be sleeping in his grave, senseless and inactive; whereas he adds, which is far better: to depart and be with Christ is better than to live in the flesh in this sinful world, in the midst of a variety of sorrows and troubles, and in which communion with Christ is but now and then enjoyed, though such a life is better than sleeping in the grave; but upon a soul's departure and being with Christ, it is free from sin and sorrow, and in the utmost pleasure, enjoying communion with him without interruption; and this is better than labouring in the ministry: for though no man took more pleasure in the work of the ministry than the apostle did, and no man's ministry was more profitable and useful; yet it was toilsome, laborious, and wearisome to the flesh; wherefore dying and being with Jesus could not but be desirable, since he should then rest from his labours, and his works would follow him; at least it was better for him, and so the Syriac version adds, "to me", far better for me; and so the Arabic: to live longer might be better and more to the advantage of Christ, the glory of his name, the good of his churches, it might be better for others; but leaving the world and being with Christ were better for him; and this was an argument swaying on the side of death, and inclining him to desire that, and made it so difficult with him what to choose, (c) Bemidbar Rabba, sect. 11. fol. 202. 3. (d) Zohar in Numb. fol. 51. 3. (e) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 2. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:23 I long to go and be with Christ: Death leads believers immediately into the Lord’s presence (cp. 3:20-21; 1 Cor 15:20-23, 51-52; 2 Cor 5:1-8; 1 Thes 4:13-17).