Paul has not just been sitting around in prison. Still, it would appear that there were two factors that may have hindered the progress of the proclamation of the gospel: his chains (Philippians 1:12–14) and a flawed disposition on the part of some of the brothers who are also preaching the gospel (Philippians 1:15–17). Nonetheless the apostle is not at all perturbed about these things. On the contrary, he rejoices because the gospel continues to advance (Philippians 1:18). And he longs for the Philippians to share in this joy.¹