Philippians 1:22

If live. The construction of this verse has perplexed commentators. Three possible interpretations, depending on varying shades of translation, merit consideration: (1) The second section of the verse is an explanation of the first, whereas the third serves as a conclusion, as if Paul said: “But if to live in the flesh — if this be fruitful to me through hard toil — then I cannot say which state I shall choose, life or death.” (2) The second section is part of the conclusion: “But if to live in the flesh be my present destiny, then my toil will be fruitful, and so what I shall choose I cannot say.” (3) The “if” is interrogative, and poses a question: “But what if my continuing to live in the flesh shall prove fruitful? then what I shall choose I cannot say.”

The verse must be considered in its context, and this concerns Christ’s being magnified. Paul is puzzled, for he cannot decide whether he will better glorify Christ by life or by death. As he ponders the problem he sees that a continuation of life has every prospect of being fruitful, and this makes a strong appeal to him. But death also has its compensations. But whether the future held for him life or death troubled him not so long as he could be of help to the Philippians.

In the flesh. Literally, “in flesh.” Paul is referring to his continued physical existence.

Fruit of my labour. That is, fruit resulting from my life of hardship.

What I shall choose. Are not Christians often in this state, that if it were left to themselves they would not know which to choose, life or death? But God, who knows the end from the beginning, leads as we would choose to be led if we could see as He sees.

I wot not. That is, I know not. The Greek may also be translated, “I declare not,” in the sense of being unable to say.