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Bible >Philippians >Chapter 1 > Verse 17

◄ Philippians 1:17►

New International Version
The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.

New Living Translation
Those others do not have pure motives as they preach about Christ. They preach with selfish ambition, not sincerely, intending to make my chains more painful to me.

English Standard Version
The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment.

Berean Standard Bible
The former, however, preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can add to the distress of my chains.

Berean Literal Bible
but theothers are proclaiming Christ out of selfish ambition, not purely, supposing to add tribulation to my chains.

King James Bible
But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.

New King James Version
but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel.

New American Standard Bible
the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition rather than from pure motives, thinking that they are causing me distress in my imprisonment.

NASB 1995
the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition rather than from pure motives, thinking to cause me distress in my imprisonment.

NASB 1977
the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, rather than from pure motives, thinking to cause me distress in my imprisonment.

Legacy Standard Bible
the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition rather than from pure motives, thinking to cause me affliction in my chains.

Amplified Bible
but the former preach Christ [insincerely] out of selfish ambition [just self-promotion], thinking that they are causing me distress in my imprisonment.

Christian Standard Bible
the others proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, thinking that they will cause me trouble in my imprisonment.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
the others proclaim Christ out of rivalry, not sincerely, seeking to cause me anxiety in my imprisonment.

American Standard Version
but the other proclaim Christ of faction, not sincerely, thinking to raise up affliction for me in my bonds.

Contemporary English Version
But the ones who are jealous of us are not sincere. They just want to cause trouble for me while I am in jail.

English Revised Version
but the other proclaim Christ of faction, not sincerely, thinking to raise up affliction for me in my bonds.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
But the others are insincere. They tell the message about Christ out of selfish ambition in order to stir up trouble for me while I'm in prison.

Good News Translation
The others do not proclaim Christ sincerely, but from a spirit of selfish ambition; they think that they will make more trouble for me while I am in prison.

International Standard Version
The former proclaim the Messiah because they are selfishly ambitious and insincere, thinking that they will stir up trouble for me during my imprisonment.

NET Bible
The former proclaim Christ from selfish ambition, not sincerely, because they think they can cause trouble for me in my imprisonment.

New Heart English Bible
The former insincerely proclaim Christ from selfish ambition, thinking that they add affliction to my chains.

Webster's Bible Translation
But the other from love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the gospel.

Weymouth New Testament
while the others proclaim Him from motives of rivalry, and insincerely, supposing that by this they are embittering my imprisonment.

Majority Text Translations

Majority Standard Bible
The latter do so in love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel.

World English Bible
but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the Good News.

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
and the other out of love, having known that I am set for defense of the good news:

Berean Literal Bible
but theothers are proclaiming Christ out of selfish ambition, not purely, supposing to add tribulation to my chains.

Young's Literal Translation
and the other out of love, having known that for defence of the good news I am set:

Smith's Literal Translation
And some of love, knowing that I am placed for justification of the good news:

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
And some out of contention preach Christ not sincerely: supposing that they raise affliction to my bands.

Catholic Public Domain Version
But others, out of contention, announce Christ insincerely, claiming that their difficulties lift them up to my chains.

New American Bible
the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not from pure motives, thinking that they will cause me trouble in my imprisonment.

New Revised Standard Version
the others proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but intending to increase my suffering in my imprisonment.

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
But those who preach Christ out of contention, do it not sincerely, but do it expecting to increase the hardship of my imprisonment.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
But those who preach The Messiah by contention, insincerely, only hope to add suffering to my imprisonment.

NT Translations

Anderson New Testament
those preach Christ from a contentious disposition, not sincerely, thinking that they will add affliction to my bonds.

Godbey New Testament
the former from self-seeking are proclaiming Christ insincerely, thinking that they will add affliction to my bonds.

Haweis New Testament
but the others of love, knowing that I am exposed for the defence of the gospel.

Mace New Testament
the others act from affection, as knowing that I suffer for having defended the gospel.

Weymouth New Testament
while the others proclaim Him from motives of rivalry, and insincerely, supposing that by this they are embittering my imprisonment.

Worrell New Testament
but the other proclaim Christ of contention, not sincerely, thinking to add tribulation to my bonds.

Worsley New Testament
the others out of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

Paul's Trials Advance the Gospel
…16The latter do so in love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel.17The former,however,preach Christ out of selfish ambition,not sincerely,supposing that they can add to the distress of my chains.18What then is the issue? Just this: that in every way, whether by false motives or true, Christ is preached. And in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,…

Berean Standard Bible ·Download

Cross References

Acts 28:22
But we consider your views worth hearing, because we know that people everywhere are speaking against this sect.”

2 Corinthians 2:17
For we are not like so many others, who peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as men sent from God.

Galatians 1:7
which is not even a gospel. Evidently some people are troubling you and trying to distort the gospel of Christ.

1 Thessalonians 2:3-5
For our appeal does not arise from deceit or ulterior motives or trickery. / Instead, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, not in order to please men but God, who examines our hearts. / As you know, we never used words of flattery or any pretext for greed. God is our witness!

2 Timothy 1:15
You know that everyone in the Province of Asia has deserted me, including Phygelus and Hermogenes.

2 Timothy 4:14-15
Alexander the coppersmith did great harm to me. The Lord will repay him according to his deeds. / You too should beware of him, for he has vigorously opposed our message.

Romans 16:18
For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

1 Corinthians 1:17
For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with words of wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.

1 Corinthians 9:17
If my preaching is voluntary, I have a reward. But if it is not voluntary, I am still entrusted with a responsibility.

2 Corinthians 11:13-15
For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. / And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. / It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their actions.

2 Corinthians 12:10
That is why, for the sake of Christ, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Galatians 2:4
This issue arose because some false brothers had come in under false pretenses to spy on our freedom in Christ Jesus, in order to enslave us.

Galatians 4:17
Those people are zealous for you, but not in a good way. Instead, they want to isolate you from us, so that you may be zealous for them.

1 Timothy 1:5-7
The goal of our instruction is the love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and a sincere faith. / Some have strayed from these ways and turned aside to empty talk. / They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not understand what they are saying or that which they so confidently assert.

1 Timothy 6:3-5
If anyone teaches another doctrine and disagrees with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and with godly teaching, / he is conceited and understands nothing. Instead, he has an unhealthy interest in controversies and disputes about words, out of which come envy, strife, abusive talk, evil suspicions, / and constant friction between men of depraved mind who are devoid of the truth. These men regard godliness as a means of gain.

Treasury of Scripture

But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the gospel.

that.

Philippians 1:7
Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.

Romans 1:13-17
Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles…

1 Corinthians 9:16,17
For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! …

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Afflict Affliction Ambition Appointed Bonds Cause Chains Christ Competition Defence Defense Distress Faction Former Good Gospel Hearts Imprisonment Insincerely Latter Motives News Others Pain Preach Preaching Proclaim Pure Purpose Raise Rather Rivalry Selfish Sincerely Spirit Stir Supposing Thinking

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Philippians 1

1.Paul testifies his thankfulness to God, and his love toward the Philippians,
9.daily praying for their increase in grace;
12.he shows what good the faith of Christ had received by his troubles at Rome;
21.and how ready he is to glorify Christ either by his life or death;
27.exhorting them to unity;
28.and to fortitude in persecution.

Study Bible

Book ◦ Chapter

The former, however, preach Christ out of selfish ambition
This phrase refers to individuals who are spreading the message of Christ, but their motives are not pure. In the context of Philippians, Paul is addressing the mixed motivations of those who preach the gospel. Selfish ambition, or "eritheia" in Greek, implies a desire for personal gain or advancement, often at the expense of others. This reflects a broader biblical theme where God examines the heart (1 Samuel 16:7) and warns against doing righteous acts for the wrong reasons (Matthew 6:1-2). The competitive nature of these preachers contrasts with the humility and selflessness that Paul advocates inPhilippians 2:3-4.

not sincerely
The lack of sincerity indicates that these preachers are not genuine in their intentions. Sincerity in the biblical sense involves purity of heart and alignment with God's will (2 Corinthians 1:12). The insincerity here suggests a facade of piety, which is condemned throughout scripture (Isaiah 29:13,Matthew 23:27-28). This insincerity can lead to division and strife within the church, which Paul often warns against (1 Corinthians 1:10).

supposing that they can add to the distress of my chains
Paul is imprisoned, likely in Rome, and these preachers believe their actions will increase his suffering. The "chains" symbolize not only his physical imprisonment but also his commitment to the gospel despite adversity (Ephesians 6:20). The historical context of Roman imprisonment involved harsh conditions, and the added emotional or spiritual distress from fellow believers would be particularly painful. This reflects the broader theme of suffering for Christ, which Paul embraces as part of his mission (Philippians 1:29-30,2 Timothy 2:9). The irony is that while these preachers intend harm, Paul finds joy in the fact that Christ is preached regardless of their motives (Philippians 1:18).

Persons / Places / Events

1.Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to the Philippians while imprisoned. He is addressing the motives of those preaching Christ.

2.Philippians
The recipients of the letter, a Christian community in Philippi, a city in Macedonia.

3.Preachers with Selfish Ambition
Individuals who are preaching Christ but with impure motives, aiming to cause distress to Paul.

4.Chains/Imprisonment
Refers to Paul's physical imprisonment, which he mentions to highlight his circumstances and the challenges he faces.

5.Christ
Central to the message being preached, regardless of the motives behind the proclamation.

Teaching Points

Motives Matter
While the message of Christ is powerful, the motives behind sharing it are significant. We should examine our hearts to ensure we are serving God sincerely.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the impure motives of some, God can use all situations for His glory. This should encourage us to trust in His overarching plan.

Responding to Opposition
Like Paul, we may face opposition or challenges from others, even within the church. Our response should be rooted in love and patience.

Focus on the Gospel
Regardless of others' intentions, our primary focus should remain on the advancement of the Gospel and the truth of Christ.

Encouragement in Trials
Paul's example shows that even in difficult circumstances, we can find joy and purpose in serving Christ.

Bible Study Questions and Answers

1.What is the meaning of Philippians 1:17?

2.How can we defend the gospel with pure motives like Philippians 1:17 suggests?

3.What does Philippians 1:17 teach about intentions behind preaching Christ?

4.How does Philippians 1:17 connect with 1 Peter 3:15 on defending faith?

5.In what ways can we ensure our motives align with Philippians 1:17?

6.How can Philippians 1:17 guide us in addressing false motives in ministry?

7.What does Philippians 1:17 reveal about Paul's motivations for preaching the gospel?

8.How does Philippians 1:17 challenge our understanding of sincerity in spreading the Christian message?

9.Why does Paul emphasize defense of the gospel in Philippians 1:17?

10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Philippians 1?

11.What is the Bible's view on selfishness?

12.What does the Bible teach about healthy competition?

13.How can we achieve unity without divisions?

14.What defines having Christian swagger?

What Does Philippians 1:17 Mean

The former, however

Paul has just distinguished two groups of preachers (Philippians 1:15-16). “The former” points back to those whose motives are suspect. Even so, they still belong to the visible church, much like the mixed multitude that Moses led (Exodus 12:38) or the tares among the wheat Jesus described (Matthew 13:24-30). Scripture frequently warns that not everyone ministering in God’s name does so with pure hearts (2 Corinthians 11:13-15;1 John 2:19), yet God remains sovereign over all voices that call Jesus Lord (Numbers 22:38).

preach Christ

Remarkably, Paul acknowledges that the content of their message is orthodox: they “preach Christ.” That mirrors Jesus’ own response to the unnamed exorcist: “Do not stop him… whoever is not against us is for us” (Mark 9:39-40). Even when imperfect people share the gospel, God’s truth stands (Isaiah 55:11). Paul refuses to dismiss a true proclamation of Christ, recallingGalatians 2:20 and1 Corinthians 15:3-4, which anchor faith in the crucified and risen Savior, not in the preacher’s personality.

out of selfish ambition

The problem lies in motive. Self-promotion corrodes ministry (James 3:14-16). These preachers measure success by rivalry and comparison rather than by faithfulness, echoing Diotrephes, “who loves to be first” (3John 9) and the “self-seeking” whom Paul condemns inRomans 2:8. Selfish ambition turns service into a platform and converts into trophies, forgetting that true greatness comes through humble obedience (Mark 10:42-45).

not sincerely

Their hearts lack integrity. Just as Simon the sorcerer sought apostolic power for personal gain (Acts 8:18-23), these ministers pursue ministry for ulterior motives. Paul contrasts such duplicity with the transparent sincerity God desires (2 Corinthians 2:17;1 Thessalonians 2:3-5). A message can be factually correct yet spiritually hollow when the messenger is double-minded (Psalm 12:2).

supposing that they can add to the distress of my chains

They imagine their popularity will intensify Paul’s suffering, perhaps by making Roman authorities view him as the ringleader of a growing movement or by undermining his credibility among believers. Yet their scheme backfires. Paul’s chains may limit him, but “the word of God is not bound” (2 Timothy 2:9). God often turns intended harm into ultimate good, as Joseph affirmed: “You meant evil against me, but God intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20). Thus, even ill-motivated preaching advances the gospel and deepens Paul’s joy (Philippians 1:18).

summary

Philippians 1:17 exposes a sobering reality: people can proclaim accurate doctrine while driven by pride and rivalry. Yet God’s sovereign hand ensures that Christ is still preached, the gospel still saves, and the very schemes meant to hurt Christ’s servants end up magnifying His name.

Parallel Commentaries ...

Greek

The [former],
οἱ(hoi)
Article - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

however,
δὲ(de)
Conjunction
Strong's 1161:A primary particle; but, and, etc.

preach
καταγγέλλουσιν(katangellousin)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 2605:To declare openly, proclaim, preach, laud, celebrate. From kata and the base of aggelos; to proclaim, promulgate.

Christ
Χριστὸν(Christon)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 5547:Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.

out of
ἐξ(ex)
Preposition
Strong's 1537:From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out.

selfish ambition,
ἐριθείας(eritheias)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 2052:Perhaps as the same as erethizo; properly, intrigue, i.e. faction.

not
οὐχ(ouch)
Adverb
Strong's 3756:No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.

sincerely,
ἁγνῶς(hagnōs)
Adverb
Strong's 55:Purely, sincerely, with pure motives, honestly. Adverb from hagnos; purely, i.e. Honestly.

supposing
οἰόμενοι(oiomenoi)
Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3633:To think, suppose, expect, imagine. Or oimai middle voice apparently from hoios; to make like, i.e. Imagine.

they can add to
ἐγείρειν(egeirein)
Verb - Present Infinitive Active
Strong's 1453:(a) I wake, arouse, (b) I raise up. Probably akin to the base of agora; to waken, i.e. Rouse.

[the] distress
θλῖψιν(thlipsin)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 2347:Persecution, affliction, distress, tribulation. From thlibo; pressure.

of my
μου(mou)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1473:I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.

chains.
δεσμοῖς(desmois)
Noun - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 1199:Or desmos des-mos' neuter and masculine respectively from deo; a band, i.e. Ligament or shackle; figuratively, an impediment or disability.

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NT Letters: Philippians 1:17 But the latter out of love knowing (Philipp. Phil. Php.)