Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.
All Commentaries on Philippians 1:24 Go To Philippians 1
John Chrysostom
AD 407
And what excuse is left to us? ofttimes it happens that a man who possesses a little and poor city, chooses not to depart to another place, preferring his own rest. Paul might depart to Christ, and would not, (Christ whom he so desired, as for his sake to choose even hell, ) but still remained in the contest on behalf of man. What excuse shall we have? May we then even make mention of Paul? Look to his deeds. He showed that to depart was better, persuading himself not to grieve: he showed them, that if he remained, he remained for their sake, that it proceeded not from wickedness of those who plotted against him. He subjoined also the reason, that he might secure their belief. For if this is necessary, that is, I shall by all means remain, and I will not remain simply, but will remain with you. For this is the meaning of the word, and I shall abide with, i.e. I shall see you. For what cause? For your progress and joy in the faith. Here too he rouses them, to take heed unto themselves. If, says he, for your sakes I abide, see that you shame not my abiding. For your progress, I have chosen to remain, when I was about to see Christ. I have chosen to remain, because my presence advances both your faith and your joy. What then? Did he remain for the sake of the Philippians only? He stayed not for their sake only; but this he says, that he may show regard to them. And how were they to progress in the faith ? That you may be more strengthened, like young fowl, who need their mother until their feathers are set. This is a proof of his great love. In like sort, we also rouse some of you, when we say, for your sake have I remained, that I may make you good.
