What does Philippians 1:25 mean?

Paul doesn't merely hope that he will remain alive to continue ministering. He is "convinced of this." He gives two specific reasons why he feels this way, as they apply to the Philippian believers. First, though the Philippian church was growing more and more mature, Paul could continue to serve them. His purpose is to assist the Philippians to great maturity. While it is not noted in the New Testament whether Paul ever returned to Philippi again, Paul appears confident he would return (Philippians 1:26).

Second, Paul would remain for their "joy in the faith." Faith involves both growth and joy. First Peter 1:8–9 says, "Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls." The continued presence of a man like Paul would certainly encourage the people he had been ministering to.