What does Philippians 4:16 mean?
Paul will soon refer to recent gifts the Philippians had sent him through Epaphroditus (Philippians 4:18). He has also mentioned their earlier giving in verse 15, which is likely the same gift mentioned in 2 Corinthians 11:8. In this verse, Paul adds other times they had supported his work. Even when Paul was serving in other areas, these Christians were willing to aid him.Paul's work in Thessalonica is described in Acts 17:1–9 with some additional details in 1 and 2 Thessalonians. His ministry in this city was brief, less than a year. Even so, it was apparently long enough for the Philippian believers to send at least two gifts and perhaps more. In total, the Philippian church had sent Paul gifts on a minimum of four occasions. This makes the Philippian church the most giving towards Paul's ministry, at least based on specific occasions mentioned in the New Testament. An interesting note is that Paul's most "joyful" letter is also credited to his most giving church.