But it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
We have here an account of the life and death of blessed Paul: his life was Christ, and his death was gain. Observe, 1. It is the undoubted character of every good Christian that to him to live is Christ. The glory of Christ ought to be the end of our life, the grace of Christ the principle of our life, and the word of Christ the rule of it.
Commenting on Philippians 1:21-26
Nevertheless to abide in the flesh,.... To continue in the body, not always, but a little longer, is more needful for you; for their comfort, edification, and instruction, their further profiting: and increase in faith, and the joy of it.
Verse 24. Nevertheless to abide in the flesh. To live. All this is language derived from the belief that the soul will be separate from the body at death, and will occupy a separate state of existence. Is more needful for you. Another object that was dear to the heart of Paul.