Now I desire to have you know, brothers, that the things which happened to me have turned out rather to the progress of the Good News;
God has blessed my imprisonment in such a way that I have become more famous, and the dignity of the Gospel greatly enlarged by this occasion, though not all men are pleased with it. My persecution is turned to the furtherance of His Word.
AI summary
understand--Greek, "know." The Philippians probably had feared that his imprisonment would hinder the spread of the Gospel; he therefore removes this fear. the things which happened unto me--Greek, "the things concerning me." rather--so far is my imprisonment from hindering the Gospel. Faith takes in a favorable light even what seems adverse [BENGEL] (Phi 1:19, Phi 1:28; Phi 2:17).
The flesh recoils from the cross as though thunderstruck by something strange and fearsome. Those who watch for any advantage will seize on my imprisonment to mock the gospel and make you dread association with me. But God has advanced His Word through my bonds, not hindered it. Do not let Satan's usual tricks turn you aside.
AI summary