Christ our Life—Chapter 1

Paul does not use the title “Apostle” in his address to the Philippians, but rather “bondmen of Jesus Christ” (Phil. 1:1 JND). The Philippian saints were dear to him. They were partakers in the gospel, “from the first day unto now” (Phil. 1:5). At times we know that this fellowship had taken the form of practical gifts. Though they had lacked opportunity, they once again flourished in their care for him and had sent a gift by the hand of Epaphroditus (Phil. 2:25; 4:10).
Through their prayer and the abundant supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, this would be to his salvation. As to what form his release from bonds would take, either life or death, it didn’t matter. “Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:20-21). Christ is our life.
He desired that their walk would be found worthy of the gospel of Christ, not terrified by their adversaries, for it is given to us to suffer for Christ (Phil. 1:27-30).