But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. — Philippians 1:22
Paul now explains the tension in his heart. If he remains alive in the flesh, that means continued opportunity for fruitful labor. Notice that expression carefully: “live in the flesh.” Paul understood that even after physical death, he would still be alive. Death is not extinction. It is transition. So if he goes on living in this earthly body, then there is still more fruit to bear for Christ.
That fruit would be Gospel fruit, ministry fruit, and spiritual fruit in the lives of others. Jesus said in John 15:8, “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit.” Paul saw life as an investment opportunity for eternity. Every extra day meant another day to preach, teach, pray, encourage, suffer faithfully, and see others strengthened in Christ.
Then he says, “yet what I shall choose I wot not.” He is being deeply honest. Humanly speaking, he feels the pull in both directions. To remain means more usefulness. To depart means the presence of Christ. He feels the weight of both.
Paul now explains the tension in his heart. If he remains alive in the flesh, that means continued opportunity for fruitful labor. Notice that expression carefully: “live in the flesh.” Paul understood that even after physical death, he would still be alive. Death is not extinction. It is transition. So if he goes on living in this earthly body, then there is still more fruit to bear for Christ.
That fruit would be Gospel fruit, ministry fruit, and spiritual fruit in the lives of others. Jesus said in John 15:8, “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit.” Paul saw life as an investment opportunity for eternity. Every extra day meant another day to preach, teach, pray, encourage, suffer faithfully, and see others strengthened in Christ.
Then he says, “yet what I shall choose I wot not.” He is being deeply honest. Humanly speaking, he feels the pull in both directions. To remain means more usefulness. To depart means the presence of Christ. He feels the weight of both.