What does Philippians 1:15 mean?

Explanation

Philippians 1:15 highlights a reality known to believers in the early Christian church and even relevant today: different motives can drive individuals to preach about Christ.

The Apostle Paul distinguishes between those who preach Christ from pure motives (good will) and those who do so out of less noble reasons, such as envy and strife.

The reference to preaching "Christ even of envy and strife" suggests that some individuals were using the proclamation of the gospel as a means to create discord or to position themselves competitively against others, potentially even against Paul himself.

Conversely, those "of good will" are understood to share the gospel with genuine love for Jesus and for the sake of advancing His kingdom.

Historical Context

Philippians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Philippi while he was imprisoned (most scholars believe in Rome).

During this period (likely 60-62 AD), Christianity was not yet widespread, and those who preached Christ did so at personal risk.

The scenario Paul paints indicates that while he was incarcerated, different individuals took up the task of preaching, some with pure intentions and others with impure ones.

Cultural and historical influences include the establishment of the early church in a largely polytheistic society and an environment where rivalries between different leaders or factions were common.

Theological Insights

There are several theological insights we can garner from this verse:

• Divine sovereignty over human action: Even when humans have impure motives, God can still use their actions to further the gospel.

This speaks to the sovereignty of God over all things, including human weakness.

• Christian ethics and motives: The verse implicitly teaches about the importance of examining one’s motives in ministry, highlighting that not all service that appears fruitful is honored by God.
• The unity of the church: This passage could be seen as an early reference to the need for unity in the church.

It warns against letting personal differences impede the collective mission of spreading the gospel.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied in various ways:

• Self-reflection: Individuals engaged in ministry should reflect on their motives, questioning whether they serve out of love for Christ or from selfish ambition.
• Conflict resolution: In church and group settings, this verse can invoke discussions on how to approach conflict and competition, emphasizing collaboration over contention.
• Discernment: Believers should be cautious and discerning consumers of spiritual teachings, understanding that not all who preach have pure intentions.

Cross-References

• Galatians 6:12-13: "As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ.

For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh."

• 2 Corinthians 4:2: "But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God."
• Romans 16:17-18: "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the key words of interest are:

• “Envy” (φθόνος, phthonos): Often conveys feelings of jealousy or resentfulness over someone else's achievements.
• “Strife” (ἔρις, eris): Refers to contention, rivalry, or discord, usually driven by ego or self-serving goals.
• “Good will” (εὐδοκία, eudokia): Implies favorable disposition, pleasure, or approval, often indicating the positive intentions of the preachers.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient religions, including Greco-Roman mythology, envy and strife were common motifs among the gods, reflecting the human experience. The preaching of Christ out of envy could find parallels in the way religious figures in other myths seek personal glory.

However, Christianity's emphasis on pure-hearted ministry is a distinct feature that sets it apart from many other religious traditions, where motives are not as heavily scrutinized.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, motives and intent are studied within the field of psychology.

Cognitive dissonance theory might explain why individuals with impure motives continue to preach Christ; they might be attempting to maintain a positive self-image despite internal conflicts.

Evolutionary psychology could view such competitive preaching as an extension of natural selection, with individuals competing for social status or resources within a group.

Commentaries

Various Biblical commentators have provided insights on this verse:

• John Chrysostom, an early Church Father, suggested that the verse shows that Paul rejoiced because Christ was preached regardless of the motives.
• Matthew Henry's Commentary views it as a demonstration of human depravity that even the noblest cause can be preached with impure motives, but also it underscores the triumph of the gospel that it can advance despite such obstacles.
• The Expositor's Bible Commentary notes that this verse reflects a reality that not all who serve in the church have the purest of motives, but the focus should be on the promotion of the gospel rather than personal gain or recognition.