Philippians 1:4 - Printer Friendly

ESV: always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy,

NIV: In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy

NASB: always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all,

CSB: always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer,

NLT: Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy,

KJV: Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,

NKJV: always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy,

Paul extends the thanks he began in verse 3. Specifically, he thanks God constantly, in every prayer, for what the Philippian church has been able to do. His expression of thanksgiving is all–inclusive, using "always," "every," and "all." Again, prayer is key, mentioned twice in this verse. This thanks is not only based in the success of the gospel in Philippi, but also in the generosity shown by the church in their support of Paul (Philippians 1:5).

In addition, Paul prays "with joy." Paul's focus on joy in this letter is clearly seen. Philippians 1:25 notes, "I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith." He will again mention joy in Philippians 2:2, 29 and 4:1. Joy comes to Paul from the Philippians in this verse as well as in Philippians 2:2 and 4:1; his work gives them joy in the faith (Philippians 1:25) and they are to receive Epaphroditus with joy (2:29).

Philippians 1:3–11 is Paul's expression of thanks and gratitude for the believers of Philippi. Not only have they been generous in their support of Paul, they have been faithful even when he was imprisoned. Paul claims to thank God for these Christians in all of his prayers. At the same time, Paul has high hopes that the church of Philippi will continue to mature and strengthen their relationship with Christ.

In chapter 1, Paul thanks the Philippian believers for supporting his ministry. Even when Paul was jailed, or persecuted, they had been generous and loyal. Paul encourages these Christians by explaining that all of his suffering has been for a good cause. Even better, these attempts to persecute Paul have actually caused the gospel to spread. For this, Paul is grateful. He fully expects to be released, and to see the believers of Philippi again.

Chapter 1 introduces the major themes of Paul's letter. A large proportion of the passage is given to thanking the Philippian church for their loyal support of Paul. Paul also encourages them with a reminder that, good or bad, anything a Christian experiences can be used for the glory of God. This sets the tone for the rest of the letter, where Paul will continue to stress the importance of living out the Christian life. This, he says, starts with having a proper attitude and approach.

Philippians is Paul's discussion of living the Christian life. In this letter to the church of Philippi, Paul highlights themes such as joy and glory. He also puts great emphasis on how a Christian's thinking—their attitude—affects the way they live out their faith. Paul is very thankful for the support of the Philippian church, but is also concerned about the influence of various false teachers. This letter is less theological than most of his other writings, and more practical.

Accessed 5/1/2024 6:21:56 PM