Philippians 1:21 net — For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain.

NET Bible

"For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain."

— Philippians 1:21, NET Bible

Read in Another Translation

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Philippians 1:21 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Philippians 1 — Context

18

What is the result? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is being proclaimed, and in this I rejoice.Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,

19

for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ.

20

My confident hope is that I will in no way be ashamed but that with complete boldness, even now as always, Christ will be exalted in my body, whether I live or die.

21

For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain.

22

Now if I am to go on living in the body, this will mean productive work for me, yet I don’t know which I prefer:

23

I feel torn between the two, because I have a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far,

24

but it is more vital for your sake that I remain in the body.

Philippians 1:21 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Philippians 1:21 say?
Philippians 1:21 in the NET Bible reads: “For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain.”
Where is Philippians 1:21 in the Bible?
Philippians 1:21 is found in the New Testament, in the book of Philippians, chapter 1, verse 21.
Who wrote Philippians?
Philippians is traditionally attributed to Paul the Apostle (from prison). It was written c. AD 60–62.
What is the book of Philippians about?
Written from prison, Philippians is the most joyful letter in the New Testament — a tender thank-you to a beloved church and a call to humble unity, modeled supremely by Christ who "emptied himself" and was exalted as Lord. Joy in any circumstance is its heartbeat.
What are the major themes of Philippians?
Philippians explores themes including Joy, Humility, Christ-likeness, Contentment, Citizenship in Heaven. These themes shape the meaning and context of Philippians 1:21.
What translation should I read Philippians 1:21 in?
Philippians 1:21 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Philippians 1:21?
Philippians 1:21 reads (NET): “For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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