Philippians 1:21

To me. Paul emphasizes his own outlook, which differs from that of most men, who selfishly cling to life and dread death.

To live. The Greek verb is a present infinitive and refers to the continuous, daily act of living.

Christ. That is, Paul’s existence was comprehended in, and bounded by, Jesus. His thinking was completely wrapped up in his Saviour. His plans, his hopes, his every aspiration, centered in Christ. Every thought was brought into subjection to Him (2 Corinthians 10:5). Therefore, his thoughts were not selfish, or earthly; they were under the control of his Master (see on Romans 6:11; 14:7, 8; 2 Corinthians 5:15; Galatians 2:20; Philippians 3:7-11; Colossians 3:3).

To die. The Greek tenses used in this verse contrast the continuous act of living with the instantaneous termination of life that comes at the moment of death.

Gain. This assertion is not reconcilable with mere human feeling. Death always involves loss of some sort. To the saint it involves the loss of many pure enjoyments of life, of happy domestic ties, of means and opportunities of working for Christ. But Paul’s assertion is not that of a pessimist who says, “Life is not worth living.” It is not that of one who is worn out, who has outlived the very sensation of enjoyment. Nor is it that of a holy man wearied with exhausting labors and anxious to be finished with trials and persecutions. Paul was not sour, morose, or cynical. He possessed hearty human sympathies and entered with spirit into the balanced activities of a true Christian life. But his present declaration deals with a higher topic than his own prospects. He is concerned with magnifying Christ. If his Lord saw best for him to bear testimony through living and ministering, he would rightly represent Him. But the death of a righteous man can also be a powerful affirmation of the efficacy of the gospel of grace. The contrast between his death and the death of one who dies without hope would be so marked that its influence would bring gain for the kingdom of Christ. Hearts are touched and softened by the calm assurance and confidence of the one whose trust is completely in his God, even in the hour of death.

A further interpretation is also worthy of consideration. The Christian has nothing worthwhile to lose by death, but he has much to gain. He loses temptation, trial, toil, sorrow. He gains, at the resurrection, glorious immortality.