Philippians 1:28

Terrified. Gr. ekpturō, “to startle,” “to affright,” “to intimidate.” The Christian, knowing that his times are in God’s hands, and that all things work together for good to them that love God (see on Romans 8:28), should not be intimidated.

Adversaries. The enemies of the good are the enemies of God. The good man, with God on his side, need not fear either their numbers or their ferocity.

Which. That is, the Christian’s unflinching boldness.

To them. That is, to the adversaries.

Evident token. Gr. endeixeis, “manifestation,” “proof.”

Perdition. Gr. apoleia, “destruction,” here contrasted with “salvation” in the next clause. Even though their adversaries do not perceive or acknowledge it, the fact that the church is unterrified is an evidence of the future destruction of their enemies. It shows that the Christians are supported by supernatural power, and implies that opponents will eventually be called into judgment on account of their persecuting activities. Punishment for the wicked and consolation for the righteous are both prefigured in the relation of the Christian to his adversaries.

Salvation. The calm strength and assurance of the true Christian in the face of the severest opposition or persecution is one of God’s ways of revealing Himself to us. It serves as a pledge of the full salvation that He has provided.

That of God. That is, the “evident token,” or proof, of the destruction of the adversaries and the salvation of the faithful comes from God.