Philippians 1:13 - Printer Friendly

ESV: so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ.

NIV: As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.

NASB: so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the praetorian guard and to everyone else,

CSB: so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard, and to everyone else, that my imprisonment is because I am in Christ.

NLT: For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ.

KJV: So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;

NKJV: so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ;

This advance of the gospel, mentioned in verse 12, included even the guards who were part of Paul's Roman imprisonment. The imperial guard was literally the praitorion: soldiers assigned to guard high–ranking officials in Rome, who now had some exposure to Paul's teachings. Paul's captivity gave him the opportunity to interact with these men on a regular basis. As a result, many of them had been converted. It was of great significance that some of the most revered soldiers of Rome had become followers of Jesus.

In addition, Paul mentions "all the rest." This is likely a general reference to both Jews and Gentiles living in Rome who heard about Paul's gospel message. Acts 28:30–31 says of Paul, "He lived there [Rome] two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance."

Critically, Paul notes that these people are all aware that he is a prisoner for one reason only: his witness for Christ. Neither the guards, nor "all the rest," are under any illusions. Paul is no criminal or rebel. He is guilty of nothing more or less than preaching the gospel.

Philippians 1:12–18 explains Paul's perspective on his imprisonment. Specifically, Paul sees the many hardships of his life as a good thing, for one reason: they have led to the spread of the gospel. Paul has been held captive; this has allowed him to preach to his jailers. Paul has seen others repeat his own message in an effort to harm him; this has caused even more people to hear the gospel. This passage sets up Paul's upcoming argument that, whether by life or death, he intends to bring glory to God.

In chapter 1, Paul thanks the Philippian believers for supporting his ministry. Even when Paul was jailed, or persecuted, they had been generous and loyal. Paul encourages these Christians by explaining that all of his suffering has been for a good cause. Even better, these attempts to persecute Paul have actually caused the gospel to spread. For this, Paul is grateful. He fully expects to be released, and to see the believers of Philippi again.

Chapter 1 introduces the major themes of Paul's letter. A large proportion of the passage is given to thanking the Philippian church for their loyal support of Paul. Paul also encourages them with a reminder that, good or bad, anything a Christian experiences can be used for the glory of God. This sets the tone for the rest of the letter, where Paul will continue to stress the importance of living out the Christian life. This, he says, starts with having a proper attitude and approach.

Philippians is Paul's discussion of living the Christian life. In this letter to the church of Philippi, Paul highlights themes such as joy and glory. He also puts great emphasis on how a Christian's thinking—their attitude—affects the way they live out their faith. Paul is very thankful for the support of the Philippian church, but is also concerned about the influence of various false teachers. This letter is less theological than most of his other writings, and more practical.