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Philippians 1:23-24
I am torn between the two:
I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;
but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
[New International Verison]
This verse expresses the Apostle Paul’s deep internal conflict between two desires.
First, he longs to “depart and be with Christ,” indicating his readiness to leave this earthly life for the eternal joy of being with Jesus, which he considers “better by far.”
Second, he recognizes that “it is more necessary” for him to remain alive “in the body” to continue supporting and nurturing the believers’ faith.
This tension highlights Paul’s selfless commitment to others over his desires. The passage also underscores themes of duty versus personal fulfillment and illustrates the sacrificial nature of Paul’s ministry for the benefit of others.
