Albert Barnes Commentary Philippians 1:15

"Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:" — Philippians 1:15 (ASV)

Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife. The apostle does not mention what the basis of this "envy and strife" was. It would seem, however, that even in Rome there was a party which was jealous of the influence of Paul, and which supposed that this was a good opportunity to diminish his influence, and to strengthen their own cause.

He was not then free to meet and refute them. They had access to the mass of the people. It was easy, under plausible pretenses, to insinuate hints about the ambitious aims or improper influence of Paul, or to take a strong stand against him and in favor of their own views, and they took advantage of this opportunity.

It would seem most probable, though this is not mentioned, that these persons were Judaizing teachers, professing Christianity, and who supposed that Paul's views were derogatory to the honor of Moses and the law.

And some also of good will. From pure motives, having no party aims to accomplish, and not intending in any way to give me trouble.