John Calvin Commentary Philippians 1:14

"and that most of the brethren in the Lord, being confident through my bonds, are more abundantly bold to speak the word of God without fear." — Philippians 1:14 (ASV)

Many of the brethren. By this example, we are taught that the tortures of the saints, endured by them on behalf of the gospel, are a ground of confidence for us. It would indeed be a dreadful spectacle, and one that might tend to dishearten us, if we saw nothing but the cruelty and rage of the persecutors. When, however, we see at the same time the hand of the Lord, which makes his people unconquerable under the infirmity of the Cross and causes them to triumph, relying on this, we ought to venture further than we have been accustomed, now having a pledge of our victory in the persons of our brothers. The knowledge of this ought to overcome our fears, so that we may speak boldly in the midst of dangers.