In the previous section, we saw Paul rejoicing in the progress of the gospel (1:18a) even despite malicious intent by some. Immediately after this, he assures his audience that his joy will continue into the future. He says, "Yes, and I will rejoice" (1:18b). And with this statement, Paul shifts his focus away from what has transpired to what he expects will occur in the future.

After his prayer, Paul gives an update on his circumstances. His audience already knew of his imprisonment and even sent to minister to him. But he now wanted them to know something unexpected about his incarceration: "that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel" (1:12). How did Paul's jail time lead to an advancement of the gospel? Paul explains in the remainder of this passage.

In the last section, Paul mentioned that he prayed for the Philippians. In these verses we find out exactly what it is that he prayed for.