Philippians 1:9

I pray He takes up the words, Philippians 1:4, "in every requestfor you all."

that Lit., by classical rules, "in order that." But in later Greek the phrase has lost its more precise necessary reference to purpose, and may convey (as here) the idea of purport, significance. So we say, "a message to this effect," meaning, "in these terms." In John 17:3 (where lit., "in order to know, &c."), the phrase conveys the kindred idea of equivalence, synonymous description; "life eternal" is, in effect, "to know God."

your love Perhaps in its largest reference; Christian love, however directed, whether to God or man, to brethren or aliens. But the previous context surely favours a certain speciality of reference to St Paul; as if to say, "your Christian love, of which Ihave such warm evidence." Still, this leaves a larger reference also quite free.

abound A favourite word with St Paul. In this Ep. it occurs again, Philippians 1:26; Philippians 4:12; Philippians 4:18. Cp. 1 Thessalonians 4:1 for a near parallel here. Nothing short of spiritual growthever satisfies St Paul. "The fire in the Apostle never says, Enough" (Bengel).

in As a man"abounds in" e.g. "hope" (Romans 15:13). He prays that their love may richly possess knowledge and perception as its attendants and aids.

knowledge Greek, epignôsis, more than gnôsis. The structure of the word suggests developed, full knowledge; the N.T. usage limits the thought to spiritualknowledge. It is a frequent word with St Paul.

all judgment "All":with reference to the manifold needs and occasions for its exercise; judgment developed, amplified to the full for full use. "Judgment":lit. "sensation, perception." The word occurs here only in N.T., and cognates to it only Luke 9:45; Hebrews 5:14. R.V., "discernment." But the word "judgment" (in the sense e.g. of criticism of works of art, or of insight into character) is so fair an equivalent to the Greek that the A.V. may well stand. In application, the "judgment" would often appear as delicate perception, fine tact; a gift whose highest forms are nowhere so well seen as in some Christians, even poor Christians.