'To Live Is Christ and to Die Is Gain' — Philippians 1:20-24
Philippians 1:20-24 · Berean Standard Bible
Writing from prison and facing possible execution, Paul says, 'For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.' He is genuinely torn between two goods — departing to be with Christ, which is 'better by far,' and remaining to serve others. It is the Bible's clearest example of a believer facing death without fear, treating it not as the end but as gain.
20I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have complete boldness so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
21For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
22But if I go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. So what shall I choose? I do not know.
23I am torn between the two. I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better indeed.
24But it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
Read the wider context: Philippians 1.
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