Philippians 1:3
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Upon every remembrance - As often as you recur to my mind, so often do I thank God for the great work wrought among you. Some think that the words should be translated, for all your kind remembrance; referring to their kind attention to the apostle, in supplying his wants, etc.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Translate, "In all my remembrance of you."
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle proceeds after the inscription and benediction to thanksgiving for the saints at Philippi. He tells them what it was he thanked God for, upon their account. Observe here, I. Paul remembered them: he bore them much in his thoughts; and though they were out of sight, and he was at a distance from them, yet they were not out of his mind: or, Upon every mention of you - epi pasē tē mneia. As he often thought of them, so he often spoke of them, and delighted to hear them spoken of. The very mention of them was grateful to him: it is a pleasure to hear of the welfare of an absent friend. II. He remembered them with joy. At Philippi he was maltreated; there he was scourged and put into the stocks, and for the present saw little of the fruit of his labour; and yet he remembers Philippi with joy. He looked upon his sufferings for Christ as his credit, his comfort, his crown, and was pleased at every mention of the place where he suffered. So far was he from being ashamed of them, or loth to hear of the scene of his sufferings, that he remembered it with joy. III. He remembered them in prayer: Always in every prayer of mine for you all, Phi 1:4. The best remembrance of our friends is to remember them at the throne of grace. Paul was much in prayer for his friends, for all his friends, for these particularly. It should seem, by this manner of expression, that he mentioned at the throne of grace the several churches he was interested in and concerned for particularly and by name. He had seasons of prayer for the church at Philippi. God gives us leave to be thus free with him, though, for our comfort, he knows whom we mean when we do not name them. IV. He thanked God upon every joyful remembrance of them. Observe, Thanksgiving must have a part in every prayer; and whatsoever is the matter of our rejoicing ought to be the matter of our thanksgiving. What we have the comfort of, God must have the glory of. He thanked God, as well as made requests with joy. As holy joy is the heart and soul of thankful praise, so thankful praise is the lip and language of holy joy. V. As in our prayers, so in our thanksgiving, we must eye God as our God: I thank my God. It encourages us in prayer, and enlarges the heart in praise, to see every mercy coming from the hand of God as our God. - I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. We must thank our God for others' graces and comforts, and gifts and usefulness, as we receive the benefit of them, and God receives glory by them. But what is the matter of this thanksgiving? 1. He gives thanks to God for the comfort he had in them: for your fellowship in the gospel, from the first day until now, Phi 1:5. Observe, Gospel fellowship is a good fellowship; and the meanest Christians have fellowship in the gospel with the greatest apostles, for the gospel salvation is a common salvation (Jde 1:3), and they obtain like precious faith with them, Pe2 1:1. Those who sincerely receive and embrace the gospel have fellowship in it from the very first day: a new-born Christian, if he is true-born, is interested in all the promises and privileges of the gospel from the first day of his becoming such. - Until now. Observe, It is a great comfort to ministers when those who begin well hold on and persevere. Some, by their fellowship in the gospel, understand their liberality towards propagating the gospel, and translate koinōnia, not communion, but communication. But, comparing it with Paul's thanksgiving on the account of other churches, it rather seems to be taken more generally for the fellowship which they had, in faith, and hope, and holy love, with all good Christians - a fellowship in gospel promises, ordinances, privileges, and hopes; and this from the first day until now. 2. For the confidence he had concerning them (Phi 1:6): Being confident of this very thing, etc. Observe, The confidence of Christians is the great comfort of Christians, and we may fetch matter of praise from our hopes as well as from our joys; we must give thanks not only for what we have the present possession and evidence of, but for what we have the future prospect of. Paul speaks with much confidence concerning the good estate of others, hoping well concerning them in the judgment of charity, and being confident in the judgment of faith that if they were sincere they would be happy: That he who has begun a good work in you will perform it unto the day of Jesus Christ. A good work among you - En humin, so it may be read: understand it, in the general, of the planting of the church among them. He who hath planted Christianity in the world will preserve it as long as the world stands. Christ will have a church till the mystery of God shall be finished and the mystical body completed. The church is built upon a rock, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. But it is rather to be applied to particular persons, and then it speaks of the certain accomplishment of the work of grace wherever it is begun. Observe here, (1.) The work of grace is a good work, a blessed work; for it makes us good, and is an earnest of good to us. It makes us like God, and fits us for the enjoyment of God. That may well be called a good work which does us the greatest good. (2.) Wherever this good work is begun it is of God's beginning: He has begun a good work in you. We could not begin it ourselves, for we are by nature dead in trespasses and sins: and what can dead men do towards raising themselves to life; or how can they begin to act till they are enlivened in the same respect in which they are said to be dead? It is God who quickens those who are thus dead, Eph 2:1; Col 2:13. (3.) The work of grace is but begun in this life; it is not finished here; as long as we are in this imperfect state there is something more to be done. (4.) If the same God who begins the good work did not undertake the carrying on and finishing of it, it would lie for ever unfinished. He must perform it who began it. (5.) We may be confident, or well persuaded, that God not only will not forsake, but that he will finish and crown the work of his own hands. For, as for God, his work is perfect. (6.) The work of grace will never be perfected till the day of Jesus Christ, the day of his appearance. When he shall come to judge the world, and finish his mediation, then this work will be complete, and the top-stone will be brought forth with shouting. We have the same expression, Phi 1:10.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:3-11 Following his usual practice, Paul thanks God for the recipients and prays for them.
Philippians 1:3
Thanksgiving and Prayer
2Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.3I thank my God every time I remember you.4In every prayer for all of you, I always pray with joy,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Communion
By Norman Meeten2.2K54:25CommunionPHP 1:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the inadequacy of human language to describe the depth and significance of the preaching of the word of God. The sermon focuses on four aspects of this truth as found in the Philippian epistle. The first aspect is the fellowship of the gospel, which goes beyond mere words and doctrines and involves partaking of divine nature. The speaker encourages the audience to engage in Bible study by reading the book, allowing the Spirit of God to absorb it and write it upon their hearts. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the simplicity of the gospel and the need to continually declare the inward reality of God's presence in our lives.
We Have the Worlds Only Good News
By Conrad Mbewe1.9K51:21PHP 1:1PHP 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that without the good news of God's love and salvation, human beings are in a state of sorrow and misery. He highlights that even with economic empowerment, people cannot truly enjoy it because God's wrath hangs over them. The preacher then shares the good news of John 3:16, where God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son for whoever believes in Him to have everlasting life. He also mentions the Apostle Paul's ability to rejoice in the midst of imprisonment, showing the transformative power of the gospel. The sermon concludes with the preacher discussing the importance of not becoming familiar or contemptuous towards the message of God's love and obedience.
The Christian View of Sports (To the Parents)
By Alex Marini1.6K1:29:37MAT 7:21PHP 1:3JAS 1:27In this sermon, Brother Alex discusses the Christian view of sports and emphasizes the need for the church to reevaluate its relationship with sports. He shares his personal background in sports, highlighting his involvement in various sports throughout his life. However, he argues that sports can become an idol and a danger to one's spiritual strength. He challenges the notion that participating in church sports teams or serving as a coach or referee equates to serving the Lord, stating that true service to God involves visiting the fatherless and widows and keeping oneself unspotted by the world. He also acknowledges that while the Bible does use sports to illustrate spiritual truth, it does not justify an unhealthy obsession with sports.
Waterloo Conference - Part 4
By Colin Anderson1.3K46:36CommunityGratitudeBible ConferencePSA 107:1EPH 5:20PHP 1:3COL 3:151TH 5:18Colin Anderson emphasizes gratitude in his sermon, repeatedly expressing thanks to the audience for their presence and engagement. He highlights the importance of acknowledging others and fostering a sense of community through appreciation. The repetitive nature of his thanks serves to reinforce the value of connection and support among individuals. Anderson's message encourages listeners to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness in their own lives.
Letter - to Gerrit Parmele Judd
By Charles Finney0Missionary WorkThe Power of PrayerPHP 1:3Charles Finney expresses deep affection and concern in his letter to Gerrit Parmele Judd and his family, lamenting their separation and the inability to meet before their departure. He shares his joy about the work of the gospel and the involvement of Miss Fanny Thomas in missionary efforts, emphasizing the importance of prayer and support for one another in their spiritual journeys. Finney's heartfelt words reflect a strong bond of love and commitment to the mission of spreading the gospel, urging them to stay connected through prayer and correspondence.
Intercession, Every Chritian's Duty. (1 Thess. 5:25)
By George Whitefield0GEN 18:23MAT 5:44ROM 8:34EPH 6:18PHP 1:3COL 4:21TH 5:251TI 2:1HEB 7:25JAS 5:16George Whitefield preaches on the importance of intercession in prayer, emphasizing the duty of Christians to pray for others as well as for themselves. He highlights the need for universal intercession, including praying for all men, kings, ministers, friends, enemies, and those afflicted. Whitefield urges believers to pray with specific regard to the circumstances of those they intercede for, citing biblical examples of the power and efficacy of intercessory prayer. He encourages a daily practice of intercession, noting its ability to cultivate love, promote spiritual growth, and align believers with the continuous intercession of Jesus in heaven.
Letter: 31f 63 Mrs Monthenez, London, August 3rd, 1843
By John Nelson Darby0Faithfulness in ServiceUnity in ChristPSA 37:4MAT 6:33ROM 12:102CO 12:9EPH 4:3PHP 1:3COL 3:231TH 5:16HEB 10:241PE 4:10John Nelson Darby shares his experiences in London, expressing a deep sense of connection to Switzerland and the work God is doing there. He acknowledges the warmth of the brethren in London but feels more at home in Switzerland, where he believes God has raised a significant testimony. Despite feeling unworthy and weak, Darby is committed to serving God and desires to bear witness to Christ's glory. He expresses gratitude for the affection shown to him by the sisters in Lausanne and hopes to unite the brethren more closely. His reflections emphasize the importance of God's will and the joy found in serving Him.
A Tribute to Leaders in the Past and Present
By A.B. Simpson0GratitudeHonoring LeadersPSA 100:4PRO 3:27ROM 13:7EPH 1:16PHP 1:3COL 3:151TH 5:181TI 5:17HEB 13:71PE 2:17A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of gratitude towards both past and present leaders, highlighting that expressing gratitude is a powerful force for healing and growth within our souls. He encourages us to be generous in our appreciation, suggesting that it is better to mistakenly credit someone than to overlook the contributions of those who deserve recognition. Simpson reflects on the profound debt we owe to the holy men who delivered the Scriptures and the saints who risked their lives to preserve them, urging us to honor their sacrifices and contributions.
Intercession
By Richard E. Bieber0PSA 67:5MAT 18:18LUK 22:31JHN 17:20ROM 8:26ROM 8:33EPH 1:16EPH 6:18PHP 1:3COL 4:3HEB 7:25Richard E. Bieber emphasizes the importance of intercession in our ministry, highlighting that our true calling and ministry began the moment we started walking with Jesus. He stresses that our primary ministry is hidden before the eyes of God, consisting of service to God in worship and service to man in intercession. Bieber urges believers to prioritize intercession, as it is the foundation upon which all other outward ministries rest, drawing examples from Jesus' prayer life and the apostle Paul's relentless intercession for others.
Helping by Prayer
By J.R. Miller0The Power of PrayerIntercession for OthersMAT 5:44LUK 6:28PHP 1:31TI 2:1JAS 5:16J.R. Miller emphasizes the vital role of prayer in helping others, asserting that it is one of life's highest duties. He highlights that prayer is not just a wish but a powerful means of invoking God's help for those we care about, including friends and even enemies. Miller warns against the dangers of neglecting prayer, equating it to a sin against both our friends and God, and stresses that true love must include intercession for all, regardless of their treatment towards us. He encourages believers to pray for everyone, as prayer is a reflection of God's love and grace. Ultimately, Miller calls for a commitment to pray for others, especially those who may have wronged us, as a demonstration of Christ-like love.
Ye Are Initiated Into the Mysteries of the Gospel
By Ignatius of Antioch0GEN 4:10ACT 9:15ROM 8:34PHP 1:3HEB 12:1Ignatius of Antioch, in his letter, acknowledges his own insignificance and imminent danger, contrasting it with the mercy and establishment in Christ of his audience. He humbly considers himself the least among those who have suffered for Christ, from Abel to himself. He encourages his audience to follow the example of Paul, the holy martyr, and expresses his desire to be found at the feet of Jesus Christ alongside all the saints. Ignatius assures them of Jesus' constant prayers for them.
Letters: Rev. d.m.m'intyre, College Park, on His Acceptance of the Call to Finnieston (1)
By Andrew Bonar0Faithfulness in MinistryThe Shepherd's CareJHN 10:11ROM 8:282CO 9:8PHP 1:31TH 5:17Andrew Bonar expresses gratitude for Rev. D.M. M'Intyre's acceptance of the call to Finnieston, recognizing it as an answer to prayer. He reflects on the bittersweet experience of leaving a beloved congregation, noting that this transition may lead to greater sanctification. Bonar shares testimonies of blessings that occurred after his departure, emphasizing that the Lord, as the true Shepherd, continues to gather His flock. He encourages ongoing prayer and support for one another in their ministry endeavors, affirming that God equips those He calls.
The Prayer of Intercession
By F.B. Meyer0Intercessory PrayerCultivating a Prayer LifePHP 1:3F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of intercessory prayer, drawing from Paul's epistles to illustrate how prayer should be a constant and joyful practice for believers. He encourages Christians to cultivate habits of prayer, setting aside specific times and places for communion with God, and to approach prayer with a spirit of joy and faith. Meyer highlights the importance of praying for both the saved and unsaved, and the necessity of relying on the Holy Spirit to guide and empower our prayers. He concludes that effective prayer requires a deep faith in God's willingness to hear and respond to our requests.
Levi Burnell
By Charles Finney0Communication in LeadershipBrotherhood in ChristPRO 27:17GAL 6:2PHP 1:31TH 5:11HEB 10:24In his correspondence to Levi Burnell, Charles Finney discusses the ongoing developments at Oberlin College and the challenges of securing suitable professors. He shares updates about his own situation, including a recent illness that prevented him from attending a meeting, and expresses gratitude for the financial support received. Finney emphasizes the importance of communication and collaboration among the college's leadership as they navigate these transitions, highlighting the bonds of brotherhood in Christ that unite them.
Ministry of Intercession
By Zac Poonen0MAT 5:44JHN 3:17JHN 20:21ROM 1:81CO 1:42CO 7:8EPH 1:15PHP 1:3COL 1:3COL 3:151TH 1:22TH 1:32TI 1:3HEB 7:25Zac Poonen preaches on the ministry of intercession and salvation, emphasizing that God sent His Son not to condemn but to save the world. Believers are called to have a full-time ministry of intercession, following the example of Jesus. By replacing the spirit of accusation with the spirit of intercession, believers can be effective instruments in God's hands and overcome Satan in the church. Paul's practice of thanking God for fellow believers before correcting them serves as a model for appreciating and interceding for one another.
Letter: 5e 15 G v Wigram, -, 1833
By John Nelson Darby0Spiritual AwakeningDivine GuidancePSA 37:4ISA 40:31MAT 28:19ROM 12:122CO 5:7PHP 1:31TH 5:16HEB 10:24JAS 1:21PE 5:7John Nelson Darby writes to G V Wigram, reflecting on his recent travels and the work of the Lord in Ireland. He shares about the spiritual awakening among the people, including readings with Roman Catholics and the formation of a new church body. Despite the challenges and fatigue he faces, Darby expresses gratitude for the blessings and the growth in affection and devotion among the believers. He emphasizes the importance of being led by the Lord, even when it leads to unexpected paths and difficulties. Darby concludes with a hopeful anticipation of reuniting with Wigram and the joy it will bring.
Letter: 4e 12 Miss Kingdom, Limerick, 1832
By John Nelson Darby0Importance of PrayerMinistry ChallengesISA 58:10MAT 25:40ROM 12:132CO 9:7GAL 6:9EPH 4:12PHP 1:31TH 5:172TI 4:2JAS 1:27John Nelson Darby writes to Miss Kingdom about his laborious ministry in Limerick, expressing the challenges of preaching the gospel amidst opposition and the need for constant prayer and support from fellow believers. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining communion with God and the church while working among the poor and those in need. Darby reflects on the blessings and struggles of his mission, urging Miss Kingdom to remain focused on serving others and to pray for the Spirit's guidance in their efforts. He shares his longing for the church in Plymouth and the joy he finds in their fellowship, despite the distance and challenges he faces.
Letter: 3e 9 Brother, -, 1832
By John Nelson Darby0Walking In The SpiritUnity in ChristPHP 1:3John Nelson Darby expresses his heartfelt thoughts to a dear brother, emphasizing the importance of maintaining communion with God amidst the distractions of ministry. He encourages the brethren at Plymouth to walk in humility and righteousness, relying on the Holy Spirit for strength and discernment against the challenges posed by the flesh and the enemy. Darby highlights the need for prayer and vigilance, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith and to be a model of believers growing in grace. He reassures them of his prayers and affection, while also acknowledging the struggles faced by other brethren in different locations. Ultimately, he calls for unity and a focus on Christ as they navigate their spiritual journey together.
St. Paul a Pendulum Between Praise and Prayer.
By Daniel Steele0ROM 8:261CO 13:13GAL 5:22EPH 3:16EPH 5:9PHP 1:31TH 5:16HEB 5:14JUD 1:24Daniel Steele preaches on the blending of prayer and praise in higher states of Christian experience, exemplified by St. Paul, where thanksgiving leads to prayer and prayer leads to praise. True prayer is not a burden but a joyous communion with God, contrasting with the practice of treating prayer as a punishment by some. The transformation of prayer from duty to delight is possible through a baptism of the Spirit and fullness of love, leading to unspeakable joy. Paul's prayer for the Philippians to abound in love, knowledge, and discernment emphasizes the continuous growth in love and the importance of spiritual perception in distinguishing good from evil.
Letter: 28e 54 G v Wigram, Lausanne, January 21st, 1843
By John Nelson Darby0Faithfulness in MinistryOvercoming TrialsMAT 28:19ROM 12:122CO 12:9GAL 6:9PHP 1:31TH 5:112TI 4:2HEB 10:24JAS 1:21PE 5:10John Nelson Darby expresses gratitude for the prayers and support of his brethren while sharing his experiences of trials and blessings in his ministry. He reflects on the challenges faced in maintaining faith amidst opposition, yet rejoices in the conversions and spiritual awakenings occurring among young believers. Darby notes the importance of responsibility and zeal among the brethren, highlighting the growth of their faith and the spread of truth despite external challenges. He emphasizes the joy and freedom he feels in his work, trusting in the Lord's guidance and provision. Overall, he conveys a message of hope and encouragement for continued faithfulness in the face of adversity.
Remember Me, as Jesus Christ Also Remembers You
By Ignatius of Antioch0ROM 15:302CO 13:14PHP 1:3HEB 10:341PE 3:14Ignatius of Antioch expresses gratitude and love to the recipients of his letter, urging them to remember him in prayer as he faces persecution and imprisonment for the sake of God. He asks for prayers for the Church of Antioch and sends his blessings in the name of God the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Ignatius acknowledges the honor of suffering for God and encourages the believers to hold on to their common hope in Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Upon every remembrance - As often as you recur to my mind, so often do I thank God for the great work wrought among you. Some think that the words should be translated, for all your kind remembrance; referring to their kind attention to the apostle, in supplying his wants, etc.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Translate, "In all my remembrance of you."
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle proceeds after the inscription and benediction to thanksgiving for the saints at Philippi. He tells them what it was he thanked God for, upon their account. Observe here, I. Paul remembered them: he bore them much in his thoughts; and though they were out of sight, and he was at a distance from them, yet they were not out of his mind: or, Upon every mention of you - epi pasē tē mneia. As he often thought of them, so he often spoke of them, and delighted to hear them spoken of. The very mention of them was grateful to him: it is a pleasure to hear of the welfare of an absent friend. II. He remembered them with joy. At Philippi he was maltreated; there he was scourged and put into the stocks, and for the present saw little of the fruit of his labour; and yet he remembers Philippi with joy. He looked upon his sufferings for Christ as his credit, his comfort, his crown, and was pleased at every mention of the place where he suffered. So far was he from being ashamed of them, or loth to hear of the scene of his sufferings, that he remembered it with joy. III. He remembered them in prayer: Always in every prayer of mine for you all, Phi 1:4. The best remembrance of our friends is to remember them at the throne of grace. Paul was much in prayer for his friends, for all his friends, for these particularly. It should seem, by this manner of expression, that he mentioned at the throne of grace the several churches he was interested in and concerned for particularly and by name. He had seasons of prayer for the church at Philippi. God gives us leave to be thus free with him, though, for our comfort, he knows whom we mean when we do not name them. IV. He thanked God upon every joyful remembrance of them. Observe, Thanksgiving must have a part in every prayer; and whatsoever is the matter of our rejoicing ought to be the matter of our thanksgiving. What we have the comfort of, God must have the glory of. He thanked God, as well as made requests with joy. As holy joy is the heart and soul of thankful praise, so thankful praise is the lip and language of holy joy. V. As in our prayers, so in our thanksgiving, we must eye God as our God: I thank my God. It encourages us in prayer, and enlarges the heart in praise, to see every mercy coming from the hand of God as our God. - I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. We must thank our God for others' graces and comforts, and gifts and usefulness, as we receive the benefit of them, and God receives glory by them. But what is the matter of this thanksgiving? 1. He gives thanks to God for the comfort he had in them: for your fellowship in the gospel, from the first day until now, Phi 1:5. Observe, Gospel fellowship is a good fellowship; and the meanest Christians have fellowship in the gospel with the greatest apostles, for the gospel salvation is a common salvation (Jde 1:3), and they obtain like precious faith with them, Pe2 1:1. Those who sincerely receive and embrace the gospel have fellowship in it from the very first day: a new-born Christian, if he is true-born, is interested in all the promises and privileges of the gospel from the first day of his becoming such. - Until now. Observe, It is a great comfort to ministers when those who begin well hold on and persevere. Some, by their fellowship in the gospel, understand their liberality towards propagating the gospel, and translate koinōnia, not communion, but communication. But, comparing it with Paul's thanksgiving on the account of other churches, it rather seems to be taken more generally for the fellowship which they had, in faith, and hope, and holy love, with all good Christians - a fellowship in gospel promises, ordinances, privileges, and hopes; and this from the first day until now. 2. For the confidence he had concerning them (Phi 1:6): Being confident of this very thing, etc. Observe, The confidence of Christians is the great comfort of Christians, and we may fetch matter of praise from our hopes as well as from our joys; we must give thanks not only for what we have the present possession and evidence of, but for what we have the future prospect of. Paul speaks with much confidence concerning the good estate of others, hoping well concerning them in the judgment of charity, and being confident in the judgment of faith that if they were sincere they would be happy: That he who has begun a good work in you will perform it unto the day of Jesus Christ. A good work among you - En humin, so it may be read: understand it, in the general, of the planting of the church among them. He who hath planted Christianity in the world will preserve it as long as the world stands. Christ will have a church till the mystery of God shall be finished and the mystical body completed. The church is built upon a rock, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. But it is rather to be applied to particular persons, and then it speaks of the certain accomplishment of the work of grace wherever it is begun. Observe here, (1.) The work of grace is a good work, a blessed work; for it makes us good, and is an earnest of good to us. It makes us like God, and fits us for the enjoyment of God. That may well be called a good work which does us the greatest good. (2.) Wherever this good work is begun it is of God's beginning: He has begun a good work in you. We could not begin it ourselves, for we are by nature dead in trespasses and sins: and what can dead men do towards raising themselves to life; or how can they begin to act till they are enlivened in the same respect in which they are said to be dead? It is God who quickens those who are thus dead, Eph 2:1; Col 2:13. (3.) The work of grace is but begun in this life; it is not finished here; as long as we are in this imperfect state there is something more to be done. (4.) If the same God who begins the good work did not undertake the carrying on and finishing of it, it would lie for ever unfinished. He must perform it who began it. (5.) We may be confident, or well persuaded, that God not only will not forsake, but that he will finish and crown the work of his own hands. For, as for God, his work is perfect. (6.) The work of grace will never be perfected till the day of Jesus Christ, the day of his appearance. When he shall come to judge the world, and finish his mediation, then this work will be complete, and the top-stone will be brought forth with shouting. We have the same expression, Phi 1:10.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:3-11 Following his usual practice, Paul thanks God for the recipients and prays for them.