SIL Translator’s Notes on Philippians 1:25

1:25a

Convinced of this: Paul meant “Since I am sure of this….” Most commentators think that the word this refers to Paul’s conclusion in 1:24. The phrase would then mean “Since I am sure that it is more important for your sake that I continue to live.” See 1:25a in the Display.

1:25b

will remain and will continue: The two Greek words that the Berean Standard Bible translates as remain and continue are from the same basic Greek word. Some commentators think that the word continue only adds emphasis to the word remain. But there are two main ideas here: Paul expected to remain alive and Paul expected to be able to remain with the Philippian believers. So in most languages this phrase is translated using two separate verbs. Some ways to do this are:

…my life will not end yet and I will still be with you
-or-
…I will continue living and I will still be able to help you.

1:25c

for your progress and joy in the faith: This means “[I shall remain with you ] in order that your faith and your joy in the faith will progress.” Paul believed that he would continue living in order to help the Philippian believers believe more and be more joyful as they trusted Christ. Another way you could express this is:

⌊ I shall continue to live⌋to help you believe more strongly and to help you rejoice because of your believing.

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