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Philippians 1:24

But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. (Philippians 1:24, ESV)
In this phrase, I believe that we are hearing Paul come to the conclusion that he may have known all along. He is seeing the benefits of being done with this world, of heading to those heavenly places to be with Christ, of finishing his course... He can see it... almost taste it.

At the same time he is recognizing that there is still need here. There is still need with the Philippian Christians. There is still teaching that must be done, evangelism that needs to happen, training for future generations, writing that needs to be accomplished.

Remaining in the flesh is truly more necessary, not only for those Philippian Christians but also for us. There are several of Paul's letters that were written after this imprisonment.

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