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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comVincent Word Studies - Philippians 2:17 - 2:17
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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
I am offered (σπένδομαι)
Lit., I am poured out as a libation. The figure is that of a sacrifice, in which the Philippians are the priests, offering their faith to God, and Paul's life is the libation poured out at this offering. Compare 2Co 12:15; 2Ti 4:6. Ignatius: “Brethren, I am lavishly poured out in love for you” (Philadelphia, 5).
Upon the sacrifice, etc. (ἐπί)
The image is probably drawn from heathen rather than from Jewish sacrifices, since Paul was writing to converted heathen. According to Josephus, the Jewish libation was poured round and not upon the altar; but the preposition ἐπί used here, was also used to describe it. At all events, ἐπί may be rendered at, which would suit either.
Sacrifice and service (θυσίᾳ καὶ λειτουργίᾳ)
Sacrifice, as uniformly in the New Testament, the thing sacrificed. Service, see on ministration, Luk 1:23, and see on ministered, Act 13:2. In the Old Testament, used habitually of the ministry of priests and Levites; also of Samuel's service to God; 1Sa 2:18; 1Sa 3:1. Of service to men, 1Ki 1:4, 1Ki 1:15. In the apostolic writings this and its kindred words are used of services to both God and man. See Rom 13:6; Rom 15:16; Luk 1:23; Rom 15:27; 2Co 9:12; Phi 2:25.
Of your faith
Offered by you as a sacrifice to God.
Rejoice with (συγχαίρω)
There seems to be no sufficient reason for rendering congratulate.