Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:
Ver. 24. And fill up that which is behind] Christ suffered much for Paul; it is but meet therefore that Paul should suffer somewhat for Christ. All our troubles are but the slivers and chips, as it were, of his cross. a When the Jews offered our Saviour gall and vinegar, he tasted it, but would not drink. He left the rest for his Church, and they must pledge him, not to expiate sin, but for their trial and exercise.
Of the afflictions of Christ] That is (say some) of the Church; the afflictions whereof are said to be the afflictions of Christ, by reason of the sympathy between the head and the members, Acts 9:4; 2 Corinthians 1:5; Hebrews 11:26 .
For his body's sake] For the confirmation of men's minds in the truth of the gospel.
a υστερηματα, non προτεπηματα. ανταναπλησω. Vicissim rursum impleo.