John Calvin Commentary Philippians 1:25

"And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide, yea, and abide with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith;" — Philippians 1:25 (ASV)

And having this confidence. Some, considering it inconsistent that the Apostle should acknowledge himself to have been disappointed in his expectation, believe that he was later freed from bonds and traveled through many countries of the world. Their fears, however, regarding this are groundless, for the saints are accustomed to regulate their expectations according to the word of God, so that they do not promise themselves more than God has promised.

Thus, when they have a sure sign of God’s will, they then also rely on a firm conviction, which allows for no hesitation. Such is a conviction concerning a perpetual remission of sins, concerning the aid of the Spirit for the grace of final perseverance (as it is called), and concerning the resurrection of the flesh.

Such also was the assurance of the Prophets concerning their prophecies. Regarding other things, they expect nothing except conditionally, and so they subject all events to the providence of God, who, they acknowledge, sees more clearly than they do. To remain here means to stay for a short time; to continue means to remain for a long time.