10. But--transitional conjunction. But "now" to pass to another
subject.
in the Lord--He views everything with reference to Christ.
at the last--"at last"; implying he was expecting their gift, not
from a selfish view, but as a "fruit" of their faith, and to "abound" to
their account
(Php 4:11, 17).
Though long in coming, owing to Epaphroditus' sickness and other
delays, he does not imply their gift was too late.
your care . . . hath flourished again--Greek, "Ye have flourished
again (revived, as trees sprouting forth again in spring) in
your care for me."
wherein ye were also careful--in respect to which
(revival, namely, the sending of a supply to me) "ye were also
(all along) careful, but ye lacked opportunity"; whether from want of
means or want of a messenger. Your "lack of service"
(Php 2:30),
was owing to your having "lacked opportunity."
JFB.
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