Philippians 4:16 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.

NIV: for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need.

NASB: for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs.

CSB: For even in Thessalonica you sent gifts for my need several times.

NLT: Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once.

KJV: For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.

NKJV: For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities.

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.

Philippians 4:10–20 describes how Christians can overcome worry and worldly desires, regardless of their circumstances. By making a purposeful decision to be content, a believer can trust God to provide our true needs, and not be consumed with materialism or anxiety. Paul has learned this skill through his many trials and ministry experiences. Paul also thanks the Philippians for their generosity, and expresses his confidence that God will bless them for it.

Paul specifically asks two Christian women, Euodia and Syntyche, to settle their personal dispute. Other Christians are encouraged to act as reasonable, Christ-filled people. Paul notes that his experiences have taught him to be content with whatever material blessings he has. This reliance on the power of Christ not only allows believers to be content, it produces peace in our relationships to other Christians. This also requires a deliberate choice to set our attention on positive things. Paul extends sincere thanks to the Philippians for their generous support.

After putting suffering and hardship into perspective in the previous three chapters, Paul now gives specific thanks to the Philippians for their support and generosity. Prior passages in this letter have explained concepts like humility and hope, as well as a focus on Christ. Positive attitudes, and beneficial thinking, are especially important. In this concluding section, Paul calls on the Philippians to act with ''reasonableness,'' especially as they handle disagreements within the church. Paul is confident that God will bless these faithful Christians for their generous support.

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 5/6/2024 10:30:01 AM