In this verse Paul states the other side of the dilemma. But here has the force of “on the other hand” (Phillips Bruce).

The Greek comparative translated it is much more important can also be rendered “it is more urgent” (New American Bible cf. Jerusalem Bible Knox), “it is probably more necessary” (Phillips), or “there is greater need” (New English Bible). I remain alive represents a Greek expression which is literally “to remain in the flesh.” Obviously “to remain in the flesh” in this context does not mean “to live in sin” (cf. Rom 7.5, 18).

For your sake may be expressed in some cases as “in order to help you.” This may be combined with the rest of the verse as “but in order to help you, it is much more important that I remain alive,” or “… continue to live.”

Quoted with permission from Luo, I-Jin. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on Paul’s Letter to the Philippians. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1977. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .