But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.

PHILIPPIANS 1:22KJV
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Philippians 1:22 (KJV)

What does Philippians 1:22 mean?

Philippians 1:22 means that Paul is considering the value of continuing to live in his physical body, recognizing that his ongoing life would result in more fruitful work, but he is uncertain about what he would choose if given the option. Paul is weighing the benefits of living and serving others against the desire to depart and be with Christ.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Philippi while he is in prison, reflecting on the possibility of his death or release. He honestly shares his inner struggle: staying alive would mean more opportunities to help others grow in faith, but he does not know what he would choose if it were up to him. This verse shows Paul’s deep commitment to his mission and his trust in God’s plan, even when the future is unclear.

The Greek behind Philippians 1:22

  • "σάρξ" (sarx, G4561) means "flesh" or "body." Paul uses this word to emphasize his physical, earthly life as opposed to spiritual existence with Christ.
  • "καρπός" (karpos, G2590) means "fruit." Here, it refers to the results or outcomes of Paul’s labor—specifically, the positive impact of his ministry.
  • "ἐργον" (ergon, G2041) means "work" or "labor." Paul is highlighting that his continued life would allow him to keep working for the benefit of others.
  • "αἱρέω" (haireo, G138) means "choose." Paul is expressing uncertainty about what he would prefer if he actually had a choice in the matter.
  • "οἶδα" (oida, G1107) means "know" or "understand," translated here as "wot." Paul admits he does not know or cannot decide what he would choose.

Why Philippians 1:22 matters

  • This verse shows Paul’s honesty about his own feelings and uncertainties, making his faith and struggles relatable to readers.
  • Paul’s focus on the "fruit" of his labor highlights the importance he places on serving others, even when facing personal hardship.
  • The verse connects to the larger theme of Philippians 1, where Paul discusses life, death, and the purpose of Christian living, helping readers see the bigger picture of his message.

Where else these words appear

“choose” Greek G138 · used in 3 verses

  • 2 Thessalonians 2:13 But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:
  • Hebrews 11:25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;

“wot” Greek G1107 · used in 23 verses

  • Luke 2:15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
  • 1 Corinthians 12:3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.
  • Ephesians 3:10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

“fruit” Greek G2590 · used in 56 verses

  • Matthew 3:8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:
  • Mark 12:2 And at the season he sent to the husbandmen a servant, that he might receive from the husbandmen of the fruit of the vineyard.
  • John 15:16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

“live” Greek G2198 · used in 127 verses

  • Matthew 4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
  • Romans 1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
  • 1 Timothy 3:15 But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.