New Testament
Philippians 1:22
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But if I go on living in this body, that means fruitful work for me. Honestly, I don't know which I would choose.
Compare translations
But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.
What Philippians 1:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul reflects on the tension between life and death. He acknowledges that living in his physical body allows him to continue his work for Christ, which he finds fulfilling and productive. However, he is also aware that death could bring him closer to Christ, which he sees as a gain. This internal struggle highlights the value he places on both his earthly mission and the hope of eternal life. Paul is torn between the desire to continue serving others and the longing for the ultimate reward of being with Christ. His honesty about not knowing which option to choose reveals his deep commitment to his faith and his mission, as well as the profound nature of his relationship with God. This verse encourages believers to consider the purpose of their lives and the impact of their choices, emphasizing that both living for Christ and the hope of eternal life are significant.
How to apply Philippians 1:22 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the work we do. We should consider how our actions can bear fruit for others and for God. Balancing our earthly responsibilities with our spiritual aspirations can help us live more purposefully.
Curated for this public verse page. Philippians Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Philippians 1:22
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Philippians 1:22
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Philippians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 61
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Philippi
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Philippians 1:22 mean about life and death?
In Philippians 1:22, Paul expresses a deep internal conflict between the desire to continue living and serving Christ versus the longing for death, which he views as a gain because it brings him closer to Christ. This verse illustrates the tension between earthly responsibilities and the hope of eternal life, emphasizing that both aspects are valuable in a believer's journey.
How can I apply Philippians 1:22 to my life?
To apply Philippians 1:22, reflect on your own life and consider how your daily actions contribute to your spiritual purpose. Strive to find a balance between fulfilling your earthly responsibilities and nurturing your relationship with God. This verse encourages you to live intentionally, ensuring that your work bears fruit for both yourself and others while keeping the hope of eternal life in perspective.
What does Paul mean by 'fruitful work' in this verse?
When Paul refers to 'fruitful work' in Philippians 1:22, he is talking about the positive impact and contributions he makes through his ministry and service to others. This work is not just about personal achievement but about advancing the message of Christ and helping others grow in their faith. It highlights the importance of living a life that is productive and meaningful in the context of one's faith.
Why does Paul say he doesn't know which to choose?
Paul's uncertainty about whether to choose life or death in Philippians 1:22 reflects his deep commitment to both his mission on earth and his desire for eternal life with Christ. He recognizes the value of continuing his work for the benefit of others, yet he also sees death as a gain because it would bring him into closer communion with Christ. This honest struggle showcases the complexity of faith and the weight of significant life choices.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.