2 Corinthians 1:14
14. in part—In contrast to "even to the end": the testimony of his life was not yet completed [THEOPHYLACT and BENGEL]. Rather, "in part," that is, some of you, not all [GROTIUS, ALFORD]. So in 2Co 2:5; Ro 11:25. The majority at Corinth had shown a willing compliance with Paul's directions in the first Epistle: but some were still refractory. Hence arises the difference of tone in different parts of this Epistle. See Introduction.
your rejoicing—your subject of glorying or boast. "Are" (not merely shall be) implies the present recognition of one another as a subject of mutual glorying: that glorying being about to be realized in its fulness "in the day (of the coming) of the Lord Jesus." Philippians 2:16
16. Holding forth—to them, and so applying it (the common meaning of the Greek; perhaps here including also the other meaning, "holding fast"). The image of light-bearers or luminaries is carried on from Php 2:15. As the heavenly luminaries' light is closely connected with the life of animals, so ye hold forth the light of Christ's "word" (received from me) which is the "life" of the Gentiles (Joh 1:4; 1Jo 1:1, 5-7). Christ is "the Light of the world" (Joh 8:12); believers are only "light-bearers" reflecting His light.
that I may rejoice in—literally, "with a view to (your being) a subject of rejoicing to me against the day of Christ" (Php 4:1; 2Co 1:14; 1Th 2:19). that I have not run in vain—that it was not in vain that I labored for your spiritual good. Philippians 4:1
1. "Wherefore"; since we have such a glorious hope (Php 3:20, 21).
dearly beloved—repeated again at the close of the verse, implying that his great love to them should be a motive to their obedience. longed for—"yearned after" in your absence (Php 1:8). crown—in the day of the Lord (Php 2:16; 1Th 2:19). so—as I have admonished you. stand fast— (Php 1:27).