Philippians 1:15
Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:
Philippians 1:15 (KJV)
Context
The Apostle Paul wrote the letter to the Philippians while in prison, likely in Rome around AD 61-62. He addressed believers in Philippi, a Roman colony in Macedonia, to thank them for their partnership in the gospel and to encourage their faith. In this verse, Paul honestly acknowledges that not all who proclaim Christ do so with pure motives.
Meaning
Paul identifies two groups of preachers. The first group preaches Christ out of envy and strife. The Greek words behind these terms, phthonos and eris, point to jealousy and contentious rivalry. These individuals were likely motivated by personal conflict or a desire to diminish Paul’s influence while he was imprisoned. The second group preaches out of good will, from the Greek eudokia, meaning sincere favor and genuine good intent. Paul does not specify the exact source of this envy, but he clearly distinguishes between those who act from selfish ambition and those who act from love for God and others.
Biblical connections
This verse belongs to a larger passage, Philippians 1:14-18, where Paul expresses joy that Christ is proclaimed even by those whose motives are impure. He refuses to let human failings overshadow the advance of the gospel.
Application
Examine your motives: This verse calls us to reflect on our own hearts when serving God. Even in gospel ministry, wrong motives such as jealousy or competition can creep in. We should seek to align our intentions with a genuine love for God and others.
Let love be the foundation: Paul’s mention of those who preach out of good will emphasizes that love should drive our actions. Whether in sharing the message of Christ or in daily interactions, love should characterize our relationships, service, and speech.
Trust God’s sovereignty: Although some preached from envy and strife, Paul recognized that God could still use their message for His purposes. This reminds us that even in imperfect situations, God can work through His Word to bring transformation and salvation.
Reflection
Paul’s realism here is both sobering and freeing. It is sobering because it shows that human weakness can accompany even the proclamation of Christ. It is freeing because it assures us that God’s purposes do not depend on our perfection. We are called to guard our own motives, to love sincerely, and to trust that God remains sovereign over His Word.
