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Verse

Philippians 1:13

ESV so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ.
NIV As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.
NASB so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the praetorian guard and to everyone else,
CSB so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard, and to everyone else, that my imprisonment is because I am in Christ.
NLT For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ.
KJV So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;
NKJV so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ;

What does Philippians 1:13 mean?

This advance of the gospel, mentioned in verse 12, included even the guards who were part of Paul's Roman imprisonment. The imperial guard was literally the praitorion: soldiers assigned to guard high–ranking officials in Rome, who now had some exposure to Paul's teachings. Paul's captivity gave him the opportunity to interact with these men on a regular basis. As a result, many of them had been converted. It was of great significance that some of the most revered soldiers of Rome had become followers of Jesus.

In addition, Paul mentions "all the rest." This is likely a general reference to both Jews and Gentiles living in Rome who heard about Paul's gospel message. Acts 28:30–31 says of Paul, "He lived there [Rome] two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance."

Critically, Paul notes that these people are all aware that he is a prisoner for one reason only: his witness for Christ. Neither the guards, nor "all the rest," are under any illusions. Paul is no criminal or rebel. He is guilty of nothing more or less than preaching the gospel.
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