Rather, “God is my witness.” Paul appeals to God in confirmation of his deep love for, and desire to see, the Philippians. Since his longing is hidden in his heart, only God can know and testify to its reality.
Bowels.
See on Jer. 4:19. In olden times the bowels were regarded as the seat of affection, sympathy, and compassion, as is the heart with us.
Of Jesus Christ.
The allusion here is to the sympathy, tenderness, and love of the Redeemer. Paul regarded the Philippian believers with affection akin to that which the Lord Jesus had for them. This was the tenderest and strongest expression that he could find to denote the ardor of his attachment. Here is a hint of the inner unity that is to exist in the church: the members cherish one another in their hearts; they love one another with the strong affection and tender sympathy of Christ Himself; they are conscious of an all-inclusive fellowship; they have a common duty; they pray and give thanks for one another; they find in their own mutual love a witness and pledge of God’s love and purpose.