King James Version

What Does Philippians 1:15 Mean?

“Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:”

Context

So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; in Christ: or, for Christ the palace: or, Csar's court in all other: or, to all others

And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:

The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:

But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(15) **Of envy and strife.**—Explained below as of “contention,” or, more properly (as in Philippians 2:3, and in Romans 2:8; 2Corinthians 12:20; Galatians 5:20), of *factiousness, *or “party spirit.” It seems impossible to doubt that this refers to the Judaising party, St. Paul’s old antagonists. The whole tenor of the Epistle to the Romans shows how strong a Judaic element there was in Roman Christianity. Even in approaching Rome, we may gather from Acts 28:15, that the Apostle had felt doubtful of his reception there by the Church. His formal renunciation of the obstinate Jews, and proclamation that the Gentiles would hear what they had rejected, might excite against him not only the unbelieving Jews, but the Jewish and still more the Judaising Christians. The party “of Cephas” and the party “of Paul” might be placed in strong antagonism more easily than even at Corinth.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Philippians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Philippians 1:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.