Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Philippians 1:23

"But I am in a strait betwixt the two, having the desire to depart and be with Christ; for it is very far better:" — Philippians 1:23 (ASV)

As Paul thought of his prospects, he felt himself in a dilemma (“I am torn”; GK 5309), though in his case either alternative (continued life or sudden death inflicted by Rome) was a good one. The verb used here is sometimes used of diseases that control their victims. Here the idea of distress seems to be present (cf. Lk 4:38).

From his view of what would be most advantageous to him, Paul desired to leave this life and “be with Christ.” Death for him would not be a catastrophe. Paul’s expression here indicates that he did not foresee a soul-sleep while awaiting the resurrection, nor any purgatory. As he had already explained to the Corinthians, absence from the body means immediate presence with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8). This was undoubtedly “better by far,” because it would bring him rest from his labors (Revelation 14:13) and the joy of eternal fellowship in the very presence of the Lord whom he loved.