“But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.”
The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, thinking that they will cause me trouble in my imprisonment — those motivated by eritheia (selfish ambition, faction) are not insincere about Christ but about their motives: they preach from personal advantage-seeking. 'Thinking they will cause me trouble' (oiomenoi thlipsin egeirein) suggests they hope rival preaching will distress Paul in his chains. Yet Paul's response will be remarkable: he rejoices anyway.
Church Fathers on Philippians 1:17
“But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the Gospel.” What means, “that I am set for the defense of the Gospel”? It is, They are preparing for the account which I must give to God, and assisting me. What is meant by “for the defense”? I have been appointed to preach, I must give account, and answer for the work to which I have been appointed; they assist me, that my defense may be easy; for if there be found many who have been instructed and have…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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