Philippians 2:17
Verse
Context
Lights in the World
16as you hold forth the word of life, in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.17But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.18So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service - The metaphor appears to be still carried on. As it was customary for the weather-beaten mariner, when he had gained his port, to offer a sacrifice, θυσια, to God, of some particular animal which he had vowed while in his state of danger, and this was considered to be a religious service, λειτουργια· the apostle, pursuing the idea, states himself to be willing to become the libation, (for so much the word σπενδομαι imports), that was to be poured upon the sacrifice. Parkhurst observes that the apostle compares the faith of the Philippians to the sacrificial victim, and his own blood shed in martyrdom to the libation, i.e. the wine poured out on occasion of the sacrifice. Raphelius observes that Arrian uses the phrase σπενδειν επι τῃ θυσιᾳ for pouring out the libation after the sacrifice. The apostle had guided them safely into port; their faith in the atoning death of Christ was their sacrifice; and he was willing that his blood in martyrdom should be poured out as a libation on that sacrificial offering.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Yea, and if--rather as Greek, "Yea, if even"; implying that he regarded the contingency as not unlikely: He had assumed the possibility of his being found alive at Christ's coming (for in every age Christ designed Christians to stand in preparedness for His coming as at hand): he here puts a supposition which he regards as more likely, namely, his own death before Christ's coming. I be offered--rather as Greek, "I am poured out." "I am made a libation." Present, not future, as the danger is threatening him now. As in sacrifices libations of wine were "poured upon" the offerings, so he represents his Philippian converts, offered through faith (or else their faith itself), as the sacrifice, and his blood as the libation "poured upon" it (compare Rom 15:16; Ti2 4:6). service--Greek, "priest's ministration"; carrying out the image of a sacrifice. I joy--for myself (Phi 1:21, Phi 1:23). His expectation of release from prison is much fainter, than in the Epistles to Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon, written somewhat earlier from Rome. The appointment of Tigellinus to be PrÃ&brvbrtorian Prefect was probably the cause of this change. See Introduction. rejoice with you all--ALFORD translates, "I congratulate you all," namely on the honor occurring to you by my blood being poured out on the sacrifice of your faith. If they rejoiced already (as English Version represents), what need of his urging them, "Do ye also joy."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Yea, and if I be offered,.... Or "poured out", as the drink offerings of wine or oil were; meaning the effusion of his blood, which he compares to a libation, or drink offering, which was poured upon the sacrifice; and the laying down of his life for the sake of Christ, and his Gospel: which he knew not how soon might be, though he was in some hopes of a deliverance for the present, and therefore speaks of it in an hypothetical way: yet he expected it sooner or later; and that whenever it was, it would be as the libation upon the offering, Upon the sacrifice and service of your faith; he had been the means of bringing them to the faith of Christ, in which they were an offering acceptable to God, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost; see Rom 15:16; and should he suffer and shed his blood in the cause of Christ, it would be as a libation on them, as a sacrifice; it would be for the sake of preaching the doctrine of faith, by which they were brought to believe on Christ; and it would be for the further confirmation of their faith, and as a drink offering acceptable unto God; upon all which accounts it would be matter of joy to him, I joy and rejoice with you all; meaning at his sufferings and death, and the advantages thereof to Christ, to his churches, and to himself.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:17-18 I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God: Both Jews and pagans often poured out a libation of wine either on a sacrifice or at the base of the altar in honor of the deity. Paul’s entire life was an offering to God (cp. Rom 12:1; 15:16). • Faithful service is a cause for rejoicing, because nothing done for God is in vain (see 1 Cor 15:58).
Philippians 2:17
Lights in the World
16as you hold forth the word of life, in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.17But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.18So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Genesis) Genesis 35:14-29
By J. Vernon McGee4.5K03:35SacrificeGenesisFamily DynamicsGEN 35:14PHP 2:17J. Vernon McGee discusses the significance of Jacob's actions in Genesis 35:14-29, particularly the establishment of a drink offering and the naming of his son Benjamin. He highlights the deep emotional moment of Rachel's death during childbirth and Jacob's choice to name their son in honor of her. McGee emphasizes the importance of Jacob's family dynamics, noting the challenges that arose from having multiple wives, and concludes with the death of Isaac, marking a poignant moment of reconciliation between Jacob and Esau. The sermon reflects on the themes of sacrifice, legacy, and the complexities of family relationships.
(Pdf Book) the Royal Priesthood
By Basilea Schlink2.4K00:00EbooksBlessing OthersPriestly MinistryNUM 6:272CH 30:27ISA 59:2MAT 5:21MRK 11:25PHP 2:17JAS 5:161PE 2:91JN 3:22REV 1:6Basilea Schlink emphasizes the significance of the priestly ministry of blessing, illustrating how blessings can transform lives, as exemplified by Father Bodelschwingh's blessing of a child. She highlights that as members of the royal priesthood, Christians are called to bless others rather than criticize, and that true blessings come from a life of holiness and repentance. Schlink warns against the hindrances to effective prayer and blessing, urging believers to cleanse themselves daily to fulfill their priestly duties with authority. The sermon calls for a return to a life of sacrificial love and intercession, reflecting the heart of Jesus in a world in need of salvation. Ultimately, she challenges the church to rise up as a royal priesthood, ready to bless and intercede for a world facing divine judgment.
The Life of Abandonment
By Stephen Kaung2.4K1:02:39AbandonmentPHP 2:7PHP 2:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of considering Jesus Christ as the apostle and high priest of our confession. He highlights that when we focus on ourselves and our circumstances instead of considering God, we become more self-centered and hold on tightly to things. The speaker encourages the audience to see the invisible Lord and abandon themselves to Him, as this is the logical and reasonable thing to do. He also emphasizes the need to be constrained by the love of Christ and to find rest in our souls by learning from His lowly and meek heart.
Leonard Ravenhill on Wotm Radio Program
By Compilations1.6K03:07MAT 7:21MAT 16:26MAT 25:21MRK 8:36LUK 9:23JHN 14:15PHP 2:171TI 6:5JAS 4:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of sacrificial living and true devotion to God over material prosperity. It challenges believers to focus on eternal impact rather than temporary gains, highlighting the significance of selfless sacrifice and obedience in the Christian walk. The speaker warns against complacency and the danger of living a life without actively pursuing God's will, stressing the eternal consequences of neglecting spiritual growth and service.
Suffering Connected With the Deposit
By Stephen Kaung1.5K1:08:31SufferingPHP 2:172TI 1:122TI 2:12TI 3:162TI 4:2In this sermon, the speaker recounts the story of an old man who was betrayed and captured by soldiers. Despite having the opportunity to escape, the old man chose to wait for the soldiers and welcomed them when they arrived. He asked for one hour to pray before being taken away. The speaker emphasizes the importance of remaining faithful to the Lord in times of change and adversity. He encourages the audience to have a strong deposit of faith in Christ, knowing that He is able to keep them safe. The speaker also warns against self-confidence and urges the audience to be prepared for persecution and to persevere in their faith.
Philippians: The Ministry of Christ
By Stephen Kaung1.4K59:44Ministry Of ChristMAT 6:33PHP 1:27PHP 2:1PHP 2:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the principle of emptying oneself and humbling oneself in order to receive from God. He uses the example of the apostle Paul, who considered the church in Philippi as a sacrifice and offering to God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of unity and selflessness within the church, urging the congregation to think the same thing and have the same love. He also highlights the repeated use of the word "all" in the letter to the Philippians, indicating the need for the church to stand firm together in one spirit and soul.
The Great Suffering of North Korean Christians
By Edgar Reich1.0K37:49North KoreaMAT 5:11MAT 28:19ACT 4:29PHP 2:17In this sermon transcript, the speaker discusses the persecution and martyrdom of Christians in various countries, including North Korea. The speaker shares stories of believers who faced imprisonment, torture, and death for their faith in Jesus Christ. The transcript highlights the courage and resilience of these Christians, who remained steadfast in their devotion to Christ even in the face of extreme suffering. The speaker calls on listeners to pray for persecuted believers, asking for God's protection, provision, and the opportunity to share the Gospel with others.
Proclaiming the Gospel Through the Sacraments
By Hans Boersma4801:29:25SacramentsPSA 80:9MAT 6:33JHN 15:4ROM 12:1PHP 2:171PE 2:5In this sermon, the speaker explores the connection between the act of eating and drinking in the Eucharist and the proclamation of the Lord's death. He uses a story from the early church about martyrdom to illustrate how the sacrifice of a few individuals became a ransom for the sins of the nation. The speaker emphasizes the importance of Christians being prepared to proclaim the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, even if it requires personal sacrifice. He concludes by stating that when Christians participate in the Eucharist, they are proclaiming Jesus Christ and participating in his sacrifice.
Lookout mtn.conference 1973-05 Philippians
By Stan Ford47338:03ACT 1:1PHP 2:1PHP 2:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of harmony among believers and encourages them to look out for the interests of others rather than just their own. He highlights the difficulty of practicing selflessness and sympathy but emphasizes that it is necessary for unity among the saints. The preacher then shifts to discussing the humility of Jesus Christ, who exemplified this selflessness by willingly taking on the form of a servant. He urges the listeners to have the mind of Christ and requests that they strive for unity and humility in their own lives.
Lookout mtn.conference 1973-07 the Apostle Paul
By Stan Ford39138:04JOB 1:21MAT 6:33PHP 2:17PHP 4:41TH 5:23JAS 1:27REV 3:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of rejoicing in the Lord always, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. He uses the story of Job, who lost everything, to illustrate this point. Despite his losses, Job was able to find joy in his relationship with God. The preacher also emphasizes the need to focus on positive and virtuous thoughts, as outlined in Philippians 4:8. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to find joy and peace in their faith, even in the face of adversity.
The Missing Mark of Apostolic Ministry
By Keith Malcomson0MAT 10:40MAT 20:16LUK 10:16JHN 20:271CO 4:92CO 4:12EPH 5:1PHP 2:171PE 2:211PE 4:12Keith Malcomson emphasizes the importance of discerning true apostles from false ones in the Church, highlighting the need for the entire congregation to test those who claim to be apostles based on their qualities and qualifications, not just their titles. He points out that the primary mark of a true apostle is death to self, where they have surrendered their own desires, motives, and needs for the sake of God's work. Drawing from Paul's example, he explains that apostolic ministry involves enduring trials, persecution, and being a spectacle for all to see, ultimately leading to life in the Church through death to self.
"So Spake"
By Samuel Logan Brengle0The Power of the SpiritEffective PreachingPRO 16:24JHN 3:16ACT 14:1ACT 20:21ROM 1:142CO 4:132CO 5:14PHP 2:172TI 1:121PE 3:15Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the profound impact of the apostles' preaching in Iconium, attributing their success to three key elements: their manner, matter, and spirit. He highlights that their gracious and persuasive manner won the hearts of many, while their message was filled with the joy and seriousness of the Gospel, calling for repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Brengle asserts that the right spirit, fueled by love and faith, was the driving force behind their ability to inspire a multitude to believe. He encourages preachers to cultivate a heartfelt connection to God, as it shapes both their message and delivery. Ultimately, Brengle concludes that a heart filled with love for God and others is essential for effective ministry.
Thoughts on Numbers Vi, Vii - Part Iii. Princely Service: Numbers Vii.
By Hudson Taylor0SacrificeServiceMAT 5:16MRK 12:41JHN 3:16ROM 12:12CO 5:152CO 9:7GAL 6:14PHP 2:17HEB 13:161PE 2:9Hudson Taylor emphasizes the significance of princely service as depicted in Numbers 7, illustrating how God's blessings compel His people to give freely in service. He highlights that true offerings stem from love and gratitude, as seen in the examples of Mary and the widow who gave all they had. The lengthy account of offerings in this chapter serves to reveal God's delight in the loving gifts of His servants, showcasing that each act of giving is precious to Him. Taylor encourages believers to recognize the importance of the altar and the sacrificial nature of their offerings, urging them to live lives that reflect their love for Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a selfless commitment to service, reminding that our true value lies in our relationship with God and our willingness to serve others.
Philippians 2:12-16
By St. John Chrysostom0JOB 1:21JOB 6:7PSA 2:11PSA 69:20EPH 6:12PHP 2:12PHP 2:172TI 4:6HEB 4:12John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of working out one's salvation with fear and trembling, emphasizing the need for personal responsibility and diligence in following God's will. He encourages believers to do all things without murmuring and disputings, to be blameless and harmless, shining as lights in a dark world, holding forth the word of life. Chrysostom reminds the audience to rejoice in suffering for Christ's sake, to find joy in presenting themselves as sacrifices to God, and to maintain a spirit of gratitude and thanksgiving in all circumstances.
A Living Sacrifice
By Thomas Cook0MAT 16:25JHN 12:24ROM 6:41CO 10:312CO 4:10GAL 2:20PHP 2:17Thomas Cook preaches about the two kinds of sacrifice in the Levitical economy - of atonement and of acknowledgement. While the former found fulfillment in the Lamb of Calvary, the sacrifice of acknowledgement is perpetual in the Church, requiring a living sacrifice of service and noblest life. Practical holiness is built upon doctrinal truths, with the apostle emphasizing that morality is rooted in theology. The essence of sacrifice is highlighted, showing that to save others, one must be willing to sacrifice oneself, echoing Christ's teaching of dying to live.
Victorious Suffering
By Charles E. Cowman01CH 26:27PSA 40:32CO 12:9PHP 2:171PE 4:13Charles E. Cowman preaches about finding spiritual force through the pain and trials we face, likening it to the physical force stored in coal mines. He emphasizes that the spoils won from our trials are preparing us to become strong leaders, guiding others through their own trials. Cowman highlights the importance of victorious suffering in helping others, contrasting it with whining and murmuring. He draws inspiration from Paul's attitude of victorious praise in the face of trials, encouraging listeners to find strength in all circumstances.
The Dignity of the Sacrament and of the Priesthood
By Thomas a Kempis01CO 11:23EPH 6:18PHP 2:171TI 4:12HEB 4:16HEB 5:4JAS 5:161PE 2:91PE 4:10Thomas a Kempis emphasizes the sacredness and dignity of priests in administering the Sacrament of Christ, highlighting that it is a divine calling rather than a human merit. He stresses the importance of priests believing in God above all else, conducting themselves blamelessly, and leading a life adorned with virtues and sanctity. The priest is called to act in Christ's place, praying for both himself and all people, and to remember the Passion of Christ through the sacred vestments and the sign of the Lord's cross. By faithfully celebrating Mass, the priest honors God, brings comfort to the Church, and obtains grace and mercy through prayer and offering.
It Shall Be Recompensed Unto Him Again
By A.B. Simpson0SacrificeGenerosityMAT 16:24MAT 19:29MRK 12:41LUK 6:38JHN 15:13ROM 12:12CO 9:7GAL 6:7PHP 2:171JN 3:16A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound impact of sacrifice in the Christian life, urging believers to joyfully give up their resources for the sake of Jesus. He highlights that even small sacrifices can contribute significantly to God's work, and that true joy comes from giving. Simpson points out that the foundation of redemption is rooted in sacrifice, exemplified by Abraham and David, and ultimately by Christ on the cross. He asserts that a life dedicated to sacrifice and self-renunciation is the one that pleases God and leads to true glory and usefulness. The act of giving is portrayed as an expression of love, which is essential to the Christian faith.
Living, Spiritual Sacrifices
By G.W. North0Spiritual SacrificeDevotion to GodPSA 51:17ACT 7:59ROM 12:1EPH 5:2PHP 2:17COL 3:171TH 5:16HEB 13:10HEB 13:151PE 2:5G.W. North emphasizes that while Jesus' sacrifice for sin is complete and eternal, believers are called to offer living spiritual sacrifices to God. He explains that under the New Covenant, these sacrifices are not for atonement but are expressions of our devotion and service, akin to the offerings made by the priests in the Old Testament. North highlights the importance of presenting our bodies as living sacrifices and offering praise, drawing parallels with the lives of early Christians like Paul and Stephen. He challenges the congregation to reflect on what they are sacrificing their lives for and to ensure they are wholly presented to God. Ultimately, he calls for a life of continuous sacrifice and praise as a reasonable service to God.
The Urgency of Evangelism
By Lottie Moon0PRO 11:25ISA 6:8MAT 25:40MAT 28:19MRK 10:29ACT 20:241CO 9:222CO 9:7PHP 2:17Lottie Moon, in her letters, emphasizes the urgency and importance of missionary work, urging young individuals to heed the command to 'Go' and spread the word of God. She highlights the challenges faced in reaching out to native women and the necessity of sowing God's word despite the resistance encountered. Moon's dedication to evangelistic work over running a school showcases her commitment to fulfilling God's calling, even at the risk of her own health. She encourages the sending of more missionaries, stressing the hardships and sacrifices involved but also the joy and blessings found in serving the Lord wholeheartedly.
The Joyous Life
By C.I. Scofield0PSA 16:11ISA 53:3MAT 25:21LUK 15:7JHN 17:13ROM 15:13PHP 2:17HEB 12:21PE 4:13C.I. Scofield preaches on the profound joy of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that His joy stemmed from bearing the sorrows of others and fulfilling the will of God, even amidst His own sorrows. Jesus' joy increased as He approached the cross, showcasing a triumphant joy that surpassed His sorrows. Believers are called to partake in the joy of the Lord by sharing in the burdens of others, rejoicing in the salvation of the lost, and looking forward to the eternal joys promised in heaven, understanding that true joy comes from selflessly following Christ's example of sacrificial love and obedience.
Making Disciples of All Nations
By Peter Hammond0MAT 16:26MAT 28:191CO 15:58PHP 2:17HEB 6:10Peter Hammond preaches about the incredible impact and sacrifices of Christian pioneers in the 19th century missionary movement, highlighting their unwavering faith, courage, and perseverance in the face of overwhelming obstacles and dangers. He emphasizes the need to learn from these missionary pioneers to be more effective in world evangelism and to honor their legacy. Despite facing slander and misconceptions, these pioneers brought faith, liberation, and transformation to nations plagued by heathenism, human sacrifices, and atrocities, demonstrating sacrificial love and service in the name of Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service - The metaphor appears to be still carried on. As it was customary for the weather-beaten mariner, when he had gained his port, to offer a sacrifice, θυσια, to God, of some particular animal which he had vowed while in his state of danger, and this was considered to be a religious service, λειτουργια· the apostle, pursuing the idea, states himself to be willing to become the libation, (for so much the word σπενδομαι imports), that was to be poured upon the sacrifice. Parkhurst observes that the apostle compares the faith of the Philippians to the sacrificial victim, and his own blood shed in martyrdom to the libation, i.e. the wine poured out on occasion of the sacrifice. Raphelius observes that Arrian uses the phrase σπενδειν επι τῃ θυσιᾳ for pouring out the libation after the sacrifice. The apostle had guided them safely into port; their faith in the atoning death of Christ was their sacrifice; and he was willing that his blood in martyrdom should be poured out as a libation on that sacrificial offering.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Yea, and if--rather as Greek, "Yea, if even"; implying that he regarded the contingency as not unlikely: He had assumed the possibility of his being found alive at Christ's coming (for in every age Christ designed Christians to stand in preparedness for His coming as at hand): he here puts a supposition which he regards as more likely, namely, his own death before Christ's coming. I be offered--rather as Greek, "I am poured out." "I am made a libation." Present, not future, as the danger is threatening him now. As in sacrifices libations of wine were "poured upon" the offerings, so he represents his Philippian converts, offered through faith (or else their faith itself), as the sacrifice, and his blood as the libation "poured upon" it (compare Rom 15:16; Ti2 4:6). service--Greek, "priest's ministration"; carrying out the image of a sacrifice. I joy--for myself (Phi 1:21, Phi 1:23). His expectation of release from prison is much fainter, than in the Epistles to Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon, written somewhat earlier from Rome. The appointment of Tigellinus to be PrÃ&brvbrtorian Prefect was probably the cause of this change. See Introduction. rejoice with you all--ALFORD translates, "I congratulate you all," namely on the honor occurring to you by my blood being poured out on the sacrifice of your faith. If they rejoiced already (as English Version represents), what need of his urging them, "Do ye also joy."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Yea, and if I be offered,.... Or "poured out", as the drink offerings of wine or oil were; meaning the effusion of his blood, which he compares to a libation, or drink offering, which was poured upon the sacrifice; and the laying down of his life for the sake of Christ, and his Gospel: which he knew not how soon might be, though he was in some hopes of a deliverance for the present, and therefore speaks of it in an hypothetical way: yet he expected it sooner or later; and that whenever it was, it would be as the libation upon the offering, Upon the sacrifice and service of your faith; he had been the means of bringing them to the faith of Christ, in which they were an offering acceptable to God, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost; see Rom 15:16; and should he suffer and shed his blood in the cause of Christ, it would be as a libation on them, as a sacrifice; it would be for the sake of preaching the doctrine of faith, by which they were brought to believe on Christ; and it would be for the further confirmation of their faith, and as a drink offering acceptable unto God; upon all which accounts it would be matter of joy to him, I joy and rejoice with you all; meaning at his sufferings and death, and the advantages thereof to Christ, to his churches, and to himself.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:17-18 I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God: Both Jews and pagans often poured out a libation of wine either on a sacrifice or at the base of the altar in honor of the deity. Paul’s entire life was an offering to God (cp. Rom 12:1; 15:16). • Faithful service is a cause for rejoicing, because nothing done for God is in vain (see 1 Cor 15:58).