Philippians 1:18d-19a – Alive and Well

picture of a sailboat on the water illustrating that God's Spirit is like the wind (pixabay)

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ… 

Summary: In this passage, Paul points to a higher power: the Spirit of Jesus. 

In this passage, Paul summarizes his letter so far and adds one important point: Success does not depend on him. 

The nature of God is defined by love (agapẽ). The Apostle John tells us, “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love” (1 John 4:8). 

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Philippians 1:18c – Rejoice!

Picture of Paul in a Roman jail cell, looking up to heaven with joy on his face (Grok)

And because of this I rejoice.

Summary: In the face of adversity Paul defies the temptation to despair and instead finds reason to rejoice in the knowledge that Jesus Christ is alive and well. 

Why is Paul rejoicing? 

He has just listed a litany of reasons to be glum. First and foremost, he is in prison: literally in chains. Then, while he is chained, all his rivals are free to do their dastardly deeds unfettered by Paul’s presence to restrain them. 

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