Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Philippians 1:22

"But if to live in the flesh, --[if] this shall bring fruit from my work, then what I shall choose I know not." — Philippians 1:22 (ASV)

If, however, he continued to live as a result of a favorable disposition of his case in Rome, he would have continuing opportunity to labor fruitfully in the cause of Christ. For Paul this never meant an easy life. His labors in establishing churches and nurturing them toward maturity were characterized by frequent opposition, physical hardships, and much spiritual anguish (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:23–29). Yet he looked on his apostolic ministry as a challenge to be grasped and as fruit to be harvested.

Paul did not know which option he would “choose” (GK 145) if he could.

This word is used of the election of believers by God (2 Thessalonians 2:13) and of Moses’ choice in aligning himself with his own people (Hebrews 11:25). It does not mean that Paul could actually choose his fate, but it refers to his personal preference. The verb “know” (GK 1192) means “to make known” in all other NT occurrences, and it seems to have this sense here. Thus, the meaning is, “I cannot tell [you]” or “I cannot declare [to you].” Paul was so positively committed to the will of God that both life and death held certain attractions. If the choice were left to him, he would not be able to tell what he would decide. How fortunate that God does not force us to make such choices!