The Pulpit Commentary - Philippians 1:29
Suffering in behalf of Christ. St. Paul feels peculiar sympathy for the Philippians on account of the fact that they are like himself in suffering persecution on account of Christ. Common sufferings promote common sympathies. Only they who have suffered themselves can understand the sufferings of others. Thus it seems to be part of the mission of pain to enlarge and deepen our sympathies. I. CHRISTIANS MAY BE CALLED TO SUFFER IN BEHALF OF CHRIST . Let a man count... read more
The Pulpit Commentary - Philippians 1:29
For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake . On you it was conferred ( ἐχαρίσθη ) as a gracious gift, a free spontaneous act of Divine bounty. Faith in Christ is the gift of God, so is "the fellowship of his sufferings." It is not a burden, but a privilege:" In all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us." read more