Philippians 1:12-26

C. Progress report 1:12-26

Paul proceeded from his introductory comments to explain his personal circumstances because these were of interest to his readers and profitable for them to understand. In relating them the apostle revealed a spiritual viewpoint that is a model for all believers for all time. This "biographical prologue" [Note: Swift, p. 241.] illustrates how the principles for effective partnership in the gospel that Paul introduced in Philippians 1:3-11 were working out for the furtherance of the gospel in his own circumstances.

He began by relating what had happened because of his imprisonment in the past (Philippians 1:12-18) and then explained what was happening in the present (Philippians 1:19-26).

"In spite of the hostility of his enemies outside the church and the evil designs of his detractors within, the apostle is greatly encouraged by one overriding fact: Christ is being proclaimed." [Note: Martin, p. 67.]