Philippians 1:24

24 but because of you, the greater need is to stay on in the body.

Philippians 1:24 Meaning and Commentary

Philippians 1:24

Nevertheless to abide in the flesh
To continue in the body, not always, but a little longer,

[is] more needful for you;
for their comfort, edification, and instruction, their further profiting: and increase in faith, and the joy of it. The Syriac version renders the words thus, "but business for you", or "a good will towards you compels me to abide in the body"; and the Arabic version thus, "notwithstanding I choose to remain in the flesh, and this I think very necessary for you"; so that upon the whole, the argument for living longer on consideration of glorifying Christ, and of being more useful to the good of souls, preponderated with him; inclined him to desire rather to live than die; though the latter was better for him, and more to his personal advantage; and thus, like a brave and good man, he prefers a public good to a private one.

Philippians 1:24 In-Context

22 But if by living on in the body I can do fruitful work, then I don't know which to choose.

23 I am caught in a dilemma: my desire is to go off and be with the Messiah - that is better by far -

24 but because of you, the greater need is to stay on in the body.

25 Yes, I am convinced of this; so I know I will stay on with you in order to help you progress in the faith and have joy in it.

26 Then, through my being with you again, you will have even greater reason for boasting about the Messiah Yeshua.