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2PHPfrontintropv9j0# Introduction to Philippians<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of the Philippians<br><br>1. Greeting, thanksgiving and prayer (1:1-11)<br>1. Pauls report on his ministry (1:12-26)<br>1. Instructions<br>- To be steadfast (1:27-30)<br>- To be united (2:1-2)<br>- To be humble (2:3-11)<br>- To work out our salvation with God working in you (2:12-13)<br>- To be innocent and light (2:14-18)<br>1. Timothy and Epaphroditus (2:19-30)<br>1. Warning about false teachers (3:1-4:1)<br>1. Personal instruction (4:2-5)<br>1. Rejoice and do not be anxious (4:4-6)<br>1. Final remarks<br>- Values (4:8-9)<br>- Contentment (4:10-20)<br>- Final Greetings (4:21-23)<br><br>### Who wrote the Book Philippians?<br><br>Paul wrote Philippians. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.<br><br>Paul wrote this letter while in prison in Rome.<br><br>### What is the Book of Philippians about?<br><br>Paul wrote this letter to the believers in Philippi, a city in Macedonia. He wrote it to thank the Philippians for the gift they had sent him. He wanted to tell them about how he was doing in prison and to encourage them to rejoice even if they are suffering. He also wrote to them about a man named Epaphroditus. He was the one who brought the gift to Paul. While visiting Paul, Epaphroditus became ill. So, Paul decided to send him back to Philippi. Paul encouraged the believers in Philippi to welcome and to be kind to Epaphroditus when he returns.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Philippians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Pauls Letter to the Church in Philippi,” or “A Letter to the Christians in Philippi.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What was the city of Philippi like?<br><br>Philip, the father of Alexander the Great, founded Philippi in the region of Macedonia. This meant that the citizens of Philippi were also considered citizens of Rome. The people of Philippi were proud of being citizens of Rome. But Paul told the believers that they are citizens of heaven (3:20).<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### Singular and plural “you”<br><br>In this book, the word “I” refers to Paul. The word “you” is almost always plural and refers to the believers in Philippi. The exception to this is 4:3. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])<br><br>### Who were the “enemies of the cross of Christ” (3:18) in this letter?<br><br>The “enemies of the cross of Christ” were probably people who called themselves believers, but they did not obey Gods commands. They thought that freedom in Christ meant that believers could do whatever they desired and God would not punish them (3:19).<br><br>### Why were the words “joy” and “rejoice” frequently used in this letter?<br><br>Paul was in prison when he wrote this letter (1:7). Even though he suffered, Paul said many times that he was joyful because God had been kind to him through Jesus Christ. He wanted to encourage his readers to have the same trust in Jesus Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])<br><br>### What does Paul mean by the expression “in Christ,” “in the Lord,” etc.?<br><br>This kind of expression occurs in 1:1, 8, 13, 14, 26, 27; 2:1, 5, 19, 24, 29; 3:1, 3, 9, 14; 4:1, 2, 4, 7, 10, 13, 19, 21. Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. See the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.<br><br>### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of Philippians?<br><br>* Some versions have “Amen” at the end of the final verse in the letter (4:23). The ULT, UST, and other many modern versions do not. If “Amen” is included, it should be put inside square brackets ([]) to indicate that it is probably not original to the Book of Philippians.<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])<br>
3PHP1introkd3g0# Philippians 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul includes a prayer in the beginning of this letter. At that time, religious leaders sometimes began informal letters with a prayer.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The day of Christ<br>This probably refers to the day when Christ returns. Paul often connected the return of Christ with motivating godly living. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Paradox<br><br>A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. This statement in verse 21 is a paradox: “to die is gain.” In verse 23 Paul explains why this is true. ([Philippians 1:21](../../php/01/21.md))<br>
4PHP11c255figs-you0General Information:Paul and Timothy wrote this letter to the church at Philippi. Because Paul writes later in the letter saying “I,” it is generally assumed that he is the author and that Timothy, who is with him, writes as Paul speaks. All instances of “you” and “your” in the letter refer to the believers in the Philippian church and are plural. The word “our” probably refers to all believers in Christ, including Paul, Timothy, and the Philippian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
5PHP11kze2Παῦλος καὶ Τιμόθεος…καὶ διακόνοις1Paul and Timothy…and deaconsIf your language has a particular way of introducing the authors of a letter, use it here.
6PHP11kx8hΠαῦλος καὶ Τιμόθεος, δοῦλοι Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus“Timothy, who are servants of Christ Jesus”
7PHP11na5jπᾶσιν τοῖς ἁγίοις ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1all those set apart in Christ JesusThis refers to those whom God chose to belong to him by being united to Christ. Alternate translation: “all Gods people in Christ Jesus” or “all those who belong to God because they are united with Christ”
8PHP11im6vἐπισκόποις καὶ διακόνοις1the overseers and deacons“the leaders of the church”
9PHP13ntp5ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ μνείᾳ ὑμῶν1every time I remember youHere “remember you” means when Paul thinks about the Philippians while he is praying. Alternate translation: “every time I think of you”
10PHP15yi9lfigs-metonymyἐπὶ τῇ κοινωνίᾳ ὑμῶν εἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον1because of your partnership in the gospelPaul is expressing thanks to God that the Philippians have joined him in teaching people the gospel. He may have been referring to them praying for him and sending money so that he could travel and tell others. Alternate translation: “because you are helping me proclaim the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
11PHP16s1l8πεποιθὼς1I am confident“I am sure”
12PHP16jf4xὁ ἐναρξάμενος1he who began“God, who began”
13PHP17v7yuἐστιν δίκαιον ἐμοὶ1It is right for me“It is proper for me” or “It is good for me”
14PHP17fmc6figs-metonymyτὸ ἔχειν με ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ ὑμᾶς1I have you in my heartHere “heart” is a metonym for a persons emotions. This idiom expresses strong affection. Alternate translation: “I love you very much” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
15PHP17jn2sσυνκοινωνούς μου τῆς χάριτος…ὄντας1have been my partners in grace“have been partakers of grace with me” or “have shared in grace with me”
16PHP18sf3aμάρτυς…μου ὁ Θεός1God is my witness“God knows” or “God understands”
17PHP18xun1figs-abstractnounsἐν σπλάγχνοις Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1with the compassion of Christ JesusThe abstract noun “compassion” can be translated with the verb “love.” Alternate translation: “and I love you as Christ Jesus dearly loves us all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
18PHP19v2rw0Connecting Statement:Paul prays for the believers in Philippi and talks about the joy there is in suffering for the Lord.
19PHP19l2jlfigs-metaphorἔτι…περισσεύῃ1may aboundPaul speaks of love as if it were objects that people could obtain more of. Alternate translation: “may increase” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
20PHP19l1cyfigs-explicitἐν ἐπιγνώσει καὶ πάσῃ αἰσθήσει1in knowledge and all understandingHere “understanding” refers to understanding about God. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “as you learn and understand more about what pleases God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
21PHP110e17gδοκιμάζειν1approveThis refers to examining things and taking only those that are good. Alternate translation: “test and choose”
22PHP110s4ecτὰ διαφέροντα1what is excellent“what is most pleasing to God”
23PHP110siv8figs-doubletεἰλικρινεῖς καὶ ἀπρόσκοποι1sincere and blamelessThe words “sincere” and “without offense” mean basically the same thing. Paul combines them to emphasize moral purity. Alternate translation: “completely blameless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
24PHP111lu5nfigs-metaphorπεπληρωμένοι καρπὸν δικαιοσύνης τὸν διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus ChristBeing filled with something is a metaphor that represents being characterized by it or by habitually doing it. Possible meanings of “fruit of righteousness” are that 1) it is a metaphor that represents righteous behavior. Alternate translation: “habitually doing what is righteous because Jesus Christ enables you” or 2) it is a metaphor that represents good deeds as a result of being righteous. Alternate translation: “habitually doing good works because Jesus makes you righteous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
25PHP111hwg1εἰς δόξαν καὶ ἔπαινον Θεοῦ1to the glory and praise of GodPossible meanings are 1) “Then other people will see how you honor God” or 2) “Then people will praise and give honor to God because of the good things they see you do.” These alternate translations would require a new sentence.
26PHP112uyc60General Information:Paul says that two things have happened because of “the progress of the gospel”: many people inside and outside the palace have found out why he is in prison, and other Christians are no longer afraid to proclaim the good news.
27PHP112yrp2δὲ…βούλομαι1Now I wantHere the word “Now” is used to mark a new part of the letter.
28PHP112tu2tἀδελφοί1brothersHere this means fellow Christians, including both men and women, because all believers in Christ are members of one spiritual family, with God as their heavenly Father.
29PHP112zy4gfigs-explicitὅτι τὰ κατ’ ἐμὲ1that what has happened to mePaul is talking about his time in prison. Alternate translation: “that the things I suffered because I was put into prison for preaching about Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
30PHP112q288μᾶλλον εἰς προκοπὴν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου ἐλήλυθεν1has really served to advance the gospel“has caused more people to hear the gospel”
31PHP113h1lyfigs-metaphorτοὺς δεσμούς μου φανεροὺς ἐν Χριστῷ1my chains in Christ came to light“Chains in Christ” here is a metonym for being in prison for the sake of Christ. “Came to light” is a metaphor for “became known.” Alternate translation: “It became known that I am in prison for the sake of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
32PHP113wi6nfigs-activepassiveτοὺς δεσμούς μου φανεροὺς ἐν Χριστῷ…τῷ πραιτωρίῳ…τοῖς λοιποῖς πᾶσιν1my chains in Christ came to light…guard…everyone elseThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the palace guards and many other people in Rome know that I am in chains for the sake of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
33PHP113f8azτοὺς δεσμούς μου…ἐν Χριστῷ1my chains in ChristHere Paul uses the preposition “in” to mean “for the sake of.” Alternate translation: “my chains for the sake of Christ” or “my chains because I teach people about Christ”
34PHP113i46jfigs-metonymyτοὺς δεσμούς μου1my chainsHere the word “chains” is a metonym for imprisonment. Alternate translation: “my imprisonment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
35PHP113dm1mπραιτωρίῳ1palace guardThis is a group of soldiers that helped protect the Roman emperor.
36PHP114gy47ἀφόβως τὸν λόγον λαλεῖν1fearlessly speak the word“fearlessly speak Gods message”
37PHP115vw1sτινὲς μὲν καὶ…τὸν Χριστὸν κηρύσσουσιν1Some indeed even proclaim Christ“Some people preach the good news about Christ”
38PHP115f32hδιὰ φθόνον καὶ ἔριν1out of envy and strife“because they do not want people listening to me, and they want to cause trouble”
39PHP115v1sbτινὲς δὲ καὶ δι’ εὐδοκίαν1and also others out of good will“but other people do it because they are kind and they want to help”
40PHP116qf4pοἱ1The latter“Those who proclaim Christ out of good will”
41PHP116ttr2figs-activepassiveεἰς ἀπολογίαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου κεῖμαι1I am put here for the defense of the gospelThis can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) “God chose me to defend the gospel” or 2) “I am in prison because I defend the gospel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
42PHP116st7kεἰς ἀπολογίαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1for the defense of the gospel“to teach everyone that the message of Jesus is true”
43PHP117eq7sοἱ δὲ1But the former“But the others” or “But the ones who proclaim Christ out of envy and strife”
44PHP117z8tyfigs-metonymyτοῖς δεσμοῖς μου1while I am in chainsHere the phrase “in chains” is a metonym for imprisonment. Alternate translation: “while I am imprisoned” or “while I am in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
45PHP118z5iafigs-rquestionτί γάρ1What then?Paul uses this question to tell how he feels about the situation he wrote about in [Philippians 15-17](./15.md). Possible meanings are 1) this is an idiom that means “It does not matter.” or 2) the words “shall I think about this” are understood as part of the question. Alternate translation: “What then shall I think about this?” or “This is what I think about it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
46PHP118ah9vπλὴν ὅτι παντὶ τρόπῳ, εἴτε προφάσει εἴτε ἀληθείᾳ, Χριστὸς καταγγέλλεται1Only that in every way—whether from false motives or from true—Christ is proclaimed“As long as people preach about Christ, it does not matter if they do it for good reasons or for bad reasons”
47PHP118c8trἐν τούτῳ χαίρω1in this I rejoice“I am happy because people are preaching about Jesus”
48PHP118cf58χαρήσομαι1I will rejoice“I will celebrate” or “I will be glad”
49PHP119qp81τοῦτό μοι ἀποβήσεται εἰς σωτηρίαν1this will result in my deliverance“because people proclaim Christ, God will deliver me”
50PHP119h9hffigs-abstractnounsμοι…εἰς σωτηρίαν1in my deliverance“Deliverance” here is an abstract noun that refers to one person bringing another person to a safe place. You may have to specify that it is God whom Paul expects to deliver him. Alternate translation: “in my being brought to a safe place” or “in God bringing me to a safe place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
51PHP119x3fsδιὰ τῆς ὑμῶν δεήσεως, καὶ ἐπιχορηγίας τοῦ Πνεύματος Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ“because you are praying and the Spirit of Jesus Christ is helping me”
52PHP119c48jΠνεύματος Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1Spirit of Jesus Christ“Holy Spirit”
53PHP120fh48figs-doubletκατὰ τὴν ἀποκαραδοκίαν καὶ ἐλπίδα μου1It is my eager expectation and certain hopeHere the word “expectation” and the phrase “certain hope” mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them together to emphasize how strong his expectation is. Alternate translation: “I eagerly and confidently hope” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
54PHP120tk7lἀλλ’ ἐν πάσῃ παρρησίᾳ1but that I will have complete boldnessThis is part of Pauls expectation and hope. Alternate translation: “but that I will be very bold”
55PHP120jz1zfigs-metonymyμεγαλυνθήσεται Χριστὸς ἐν τῷ σώματί μου1Christ will be exalted in my bodyThe phrase “my body” is a metonym for what Paul does with his body. This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) “I will honor Christ by what I do” or 2) “people will praise Christ because of what I do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
56PHP120y78kεἴτε διὰ ζωῆς εἴτε διὰ θανάτου1whether by life or by death“whether I live or die” or “if I go on living or if I die”
57PHP121p9b7ἐμοὶ γὰρ1For to meThese words are emphatic. They indicate that this is Pauls personal experience.
58PHP121sxt5figs-metaphorτὸ ζῆν Χριστὸς1to live is ChristHere pleasing and serving Christ is spoken of as Pauls only purpose for living. Alternate translation: “to go on living is an opportunity to please Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
59PHP121n3jdfigs-metaphorτὸ ἀποθανεῖν κέρδος1to die is gainHere death is spoken of as “gain.” Possible meanings for “gain” are 1) Pauls death will help spread the message of the gospel or 2) Paul will be in a better situation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
60PHP122a21cfigs-metonymyεἰ δὲ τὸ ζῆν ἐν σαρκί1But if I am to live in the fleshThe word “flesh” here is a metonym for the body, and “living in the flesh” is a metonym for being alive. Alternate translation: “But if I am to remain alive in my body” or “But if I continue to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
61PHP122y9fvκαὶ τί αἱρήσομαι1Yet which to choose?“But which should I choose?”
62PHP122mwl6figs-metaphorτοῦτό μοι καρπὸς ἔργου1that means fruitful labor for meThe word “fruit” here refers to the good results of Pauls work. Alternate translation: “that means I will be able to work and my work will produce good results” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
63PHP123tq29figs-metaphorσυνέχομαι δὲ ἐκ τῶν δύο1For I am hard pressed between the twoPaul speaks of how hard it is for him to choose between living and dying as if two heavy objects, like rocks or logs, were pushing on him from opposite sides at the same time. Your language might prefer the objects to pull rather than push. Alternate translation: “I am under tension. I do not know if I should choose to live or to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
64PHP123f7qgfigs-euphemismτὴν ἐπιθυμίαν ἔχων εἰς τὸ ἀναλῦσαι καὶ σὺν Χριστῷ εἶναι1My desire is to depart and be with ChristPaul uses a euphemism here to show that he is not afraid of dying. Alternate translation: “I would like to die because I will go to be with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
65PHP125bu8dτοῦτο πεποιθὼς1Being convinced of this“Since I am sure that it is better for you that I stay alive”
66PHP125kmp4οἶδα ὅτι μενῶ1I know that I will remain“I know that I will continue to live” or “I know that I will keep on living”
67PHP126i9clἵνα…ἐν ἐμοὶ1so that in me“so that because of me” or “so that because of what I do”
68PHP127cd3bfigs-parallelismὅτι στήκετε ἐν ἑνὶ πνεύματι, μιᾷ ψυχῇ συναθλοῦντες τῇ πίστει τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospelThe phrases “standing firm in one spirit” and “with one mind striving together” share similar meanings and emphasize the importance of unity. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
69PHP127jey6figs-metaphorμιᾷ ψυχῇ συναθλοῦντες1with one mind striving together“striving together with one mind.” Agreeing with one another is spoken of as having one mind. Alternate translation: “agreeing with one another and striving together” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
70PHP127ej2sσυναθλοῦντες1striving together“working hard together”
71PHP127ya3hτῇ πίστει τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1for the faith of the gospelPossible meanings are 1) “to spread the faith that is based on the gospel” or 2) “to believe and live as the gospel teaches us”
72PHP128i9ytfigs-youμὴ πτυρόμενοι ἐν μηδενὶ1Do not be frightened in any respectThis is a command to the Philippian believers. If your language has a plural command form, use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
73PHP128l495ἥτις ἐστὶν αὐτοῖς ἔνδειξις ἀπωλείας, ὑμῶν δὲ σωτηρίας, καὶ τοῦτο ἀπὸ Θεοῦ1This is a sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation—and this from God“Your courage will show them that God will destroy them. It will also show you that God will save you”
74PHP128nb4bκαὶ τοῦτο ἀπὸ Θεοῦ1and this from God“and this is from God.” Possible meanings are the word “this” refers to 1) the believers courage or 2) the sign or 3) destruction and salvation.
75PHP130x4z3τὸν αὐτὸν ἀγῶνα ἔχοντες, οἷον εἴδετε ἐν ἐμοὶ, καὶ νῦν ἀκούετε ἐν ἐμοί1having the same conflict which you saw in me, and now you hear in me“suffering in the same way that you saw me suffer, and that you hear I am still suffering”
76PHP2introixw80# Philippians 02 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations, like the ULT, set apart the lines of verses 6-11. These verses describe the example of Christ. They teach important truths about the person of Jesus.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Practical instructions<br>In this chapter Paul gives many practical instructions to the church in Philippi.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “If there is any”<br>This appears to be a type of hypothetical statement. However, it is not a hypothetical statement, because it expresses something that is true. The translator may also translate this phrase as “Since there is.”<br>
77PHP21xye50Connecting Statement:Paul advises the believers to have unity and humility and reminds them of Christs example.
78PHP21b1q7εἴ τις…παράκλησις ἐν Χριστῷ1If there is any encouragement in Christ“If Christ has encouraged you” or “If you are encouraged because of Christ”
79PHP21k1b2εἴ τι παραμύθιον ἀγάπης1if there is any comfort provided by loveThe phrase “by love” probably refers to Christs love for the Philippians. Alternate translation: “if his love has given you any comfort” or “if his love for you has comforted you in any way”
80PHP21m84kεἴ τις κοινωνία Πνεύματος1if there is any fellowship in the Spirit“if you have fellowship with the Spirit”
81PHP21l2pxεἴ τις σπλάγχνα καὶ οἰκτιρμοί1if there are any tender mercies and compassions“if you have experienced many of Gods acts of tender mercy and compassion”
82PHP22jxq2figs-metaphorπληρώσατέ μου τὴν χαρὰν1make my joy fullPaul speaks here of joy as if it were a container that can be filled. Alternate translation: “cause me to rejoice greatly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
83PHP23y1leμηδὲν κατ’ ἐριθείαν μηδὲ κατὰ κενοδοξίαν1Do nothing out of selfishness or empty conceit“Do not serve yourselves or think of yourselves as better than others”
84PHP24ezk6μὴ τὰ ἑαυτῶν ἕκαστος σκοποῦντες, ἀλλὰ καὶ τὰ ἑτέρων ἕκαστοι1Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others“Do not care only about what you need, but also about what others need”
85PHP25rh98τοῦτο φρονεῖτε ἐν ὑμῖν, ὃ καὶ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1Have this mind in yourselves which also was in Christ Jesus“Have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had” or “Think about one another the way Christ Jesus thought of people”
86PHP26hs4qἐν μορφῇ Θεοῦ ὑπάρχων1he existed in the form of God“everything that is true of God was true of him”
87PHP26els2figs-metaphorοὐχ ἁρπαγμὸν ἡγήσατο τὸ εἶναι ἴσα Θεῷ1did not consider his equality with God as something to hold on toHere “equality” refers to “equal status” or “equal honor.” Holding onto equality with God represents demanding that he continue to be honored as God is honored. Christ did not do that. Though he did not cease to be God, he ceased to act as God. Alternate translation: “did not think that he had to have the same status as God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
88PHP27yu25figs-metaphorἑαυτὸν ἐκένωσεν1he emptied himselfPaul speaks of Christ as if he were a container in order to say that Christ refused to act with his divine powers during his ministry on earth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
89PHP27tc8nἐν ὁμοιώματι ἀνθρώπων γενόμενος1he was born in the likeness of men“he was born a human being” or “he became a human being”
90PHP28t8a6figs-metaphorγενόμενος ὑπήκοος μέχρι θανάτου1became obedient to the point of deathPaul speaks of death here in a figurative way. The translator can understand “to the point of death” either as a metaphor of location (Christ went all the way to death) or as a metaphor of time (Christ was obedient even until the time that he died). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
91PHP28hi57θανάτου δὲ σταυροῦ1even death of a cross“even to dying on a cross”
92PHP29mvb7figs-metonymyτὸ ὄνομα τὸ ὑπὲρ πᾶν ὄνομα1the name that is above every nameHere “name” is a metonym that refers to rank or honor. Alternate translation: “the rank that is above any other rank” or “the honor that is above any other honor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
93PHP29qsy9figs-metaphorὑπὲρ πᾶν ὄνομα1above every nameThe name is more important, more to be praised than any other name. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
94PHP210tk45figs-synecdocheἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ, πᾶν γόνυ κάμψῃ1in the name of Jesus every knee should bendHere “knee” is a synecdoche for the whole person, and bending the knee to kneel on the ground is a metonym for worship. “In the name of” here is a metonym for the person, telling who it is they will worship. Alternate translation: “every person will worship Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
95PHP210kfb4καταχθονίων1under the earthPossible meanings are 1) the place where people go when they die or 2) the place where demons dwell.
96PHP211xy4ffigs-synecdocheπᾶσα γλῶσσα1every tongueHere “tongue” refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: “every person” or “every being” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
97PHP211mr2ifigs-metaphorεἰς δόξαν Θεοῦ Πατρὸς1to the glory of God the FatherHere the word “to” expresses result: “with the result that they will praise God the Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
98PHP212jnp30Connecting Statement:Paul encourages the Philippian believers and shows them how to live the Christian life before others and reminds them of his example.
99PHP212e359ἀγαπητοί μου1my beloved“my dear fellow believers”
100PHP212c1ixἐν τῇ παρουσίᾳ μου1in my presence“when I am there with you”
101PHP212u5ngἐν τῇ ἀπουσίᾳ μου1in my absence“when I am not there with you”
102PHP212j897figs-abstractnounsμετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου τὴν ἑαυτῶν σωτηρίαν κατεργάζεσθε1work out your own salvation with fear and tremblingThe abstract noun “salvation” can be expressed with a phrase about God saving people. Alternate translation: “with fear and trembling, continue to work hard to do what is proper for those whom God saves” or “with awe and reverence for God, work hard to do the good things that show that he has saved you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
103PHP212cm1sfigs-doubletμετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου1with fear and tremblingPaul uses the words “fear” and “trembling” together to show the attitude of reverence that people should have for God. Alternate translation: “trembling with fear” or “with deep reverence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
104PHP213m6b8καὶ τὸ θέλειν, καὶ τὸ ἐνεργεῖν, ὑπὲρ τῆς εὐδοκίας1both to will and to work for his good pleasure“so that you will want to do what pleases him and will be able to do what pleases him”
105PHP215z2lzfigs-doubletἄμεμπτοι καὶ ἀκέραιοι1blameless and pureThe words “blameless” and “pure” are very similar in meaning and are used together to strenghten the idea. Alternate translation: “completely innocent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
106PHP215p71ufigs-metaphorφαίνεσθε ὡς φωστῆρες ἐν κόσμῳ1you may shine as lights in the worldLight represents goodness and truth. Shining as lights in the world represents living in a good and righteous way so that people in the world can see that God is good and true. Alternate translation: “so that you will be like lights in the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
107PHP215jb7yfigs-doubletμέσον γενεᾶς σκολιᾶς καὶ διεστραμμένης…ἐν κόσμῳ1in the world, in the middle of a crooked and depraved generationHere the word “world” refers to the people of the world. The words “crooked” and “depraved” are used together to emphasize that the people are very sinful. Alternate translation: “in the world, among people who are very sinful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
108PHP216u3qbfigs-metaphorλόγον ζωῆς ἐπέχοντες1Hold on to the word of life“Hold on” represents firmly believing. Alternate translation: “Continue to firmly believe the word of life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
109PHP216eq86λόγον ζωῆς1the word of life“the message that brings life” or “the message that shows how to live the way God wants you to”
110PHP216q7y8εἰς ἡμέραν Χριστοῦ1on the day of ChristThis refers to when Jesus comes back to set up his kingdom and rule over the earth. Alternate translation: “when Christ returns”
111PHP216m5aqfigs-parallelismοὐκ εἰς κενὸν ἔδραμον, οὐδὲ εἰς κενὸν ἐκοπίασα1I did not run in vain or labor in vainThe phrases “run in vain” and “labor in vain” here mean the same thing. Paul uses them together to emphasize how hard he has worked to help people believe in Christ. Alternate translation: “I did not work so hard for nothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
112PHP216m1z7figs-metaphorἔδραμον1runThe scriptures often use the image of walking to represent conducting ones life. Running is living life intensively. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
113PHP217bky1figs-metaphorἀλλ’ εἰ καὶ σπένδομαι ἐπὶ τῇ θυσίᾳ καὶ λειτουργίᾳ τῆς πίστεως ὑμῶν, χαίρω καὶ συνχαίρω πᾶσιν ὑμῖν1But even if I am being poured out as an offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you allPaul speaks of his death as if he were a drink offering which is poured upon the animal sacrifice to honor God. What Paul means is that he would gladly die for the Philippians if that would make them more pleasing to God. Alternate translation: “But, even if the Romans kill me and it is as if my blood pours out as an offering, I will be glad and rejoice with you all if my death will make your faith and obedience more pleasing to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
114PHP219dr9c0Connecting Statement:Paul tells the Philippian believers about his plan to send Timothy soon and that they should treat Epaphroditus as special.
115PHP219gml9ἐλπίζω δὲ ἐν Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ1But I have hope in the Lord Jesus“But I confidently expect the Lord Jesus to allow me”
116PHP220d9mwοὐδένα γὰρ ἔχω ἰσόψυχον1For I have no one else with his same attitude“No one else here loves you as much as he does”
117PHP221b922οἱ πάντες γὰρ1For they allHere the word “they” refers to a group of people Paul does not feel he can trust to send to Philippi. Paul is also expressing his displeasure with the group, who should have been able to go, but Paul does not trust them to fulfill their mission.
118PHP222gm8ifigs-simileὡς πατρὶ τέκνον, σὺν ἐμοὶ ἐδούλευσεν1as a son with his father, so he served with meFathers and sons love each other and work together. Timothy was not really Pauls son, but he worked with Paul as a son works with his father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
119PHP222xdn5figs-metonymyεἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον1in the gospelHere “the gospel” stands for the activity of telling people about Jesus. Alternate translation: “in telling people about the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
120PHP224yn62πέποιθα…ἐν Κυρίῳ, ὅτι καὶ αὐτὸς ταχέως ἐλεύσομαι1I am confident in the Lord that I myself will also come soon“I am sure, if it is the Lords will, that I will also come soon”
121PHP225k4wztranslate-namesἘπαφρόδιτον1EpaphroditusThis is the name of a man sent by the Philippian church to minister to Paul in prison. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
122PHP225c3cefigs-metaphorσυνεργὸν καὶ συνστρατιώτην1fellow worker and fellow soldierHere Paul is speaking of Epaphroditus as if he were a soldier. He means that Epaphroditus is trained and is dedicated to serving God, no matter how great the hardship he must suffer. Alternate translation: “fellow believer who works and struggles along with us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
123PHP225qsd6ὑμῶν…ἀπόστολον καὶ λειτουργὸν τῆς χρείας μου1your messenger and servant for my needs“who brings your messages to me and helps me when I am in need”
124PHP226gxn9ἐπιποθῶν ἦν πάντας ὑμᾶς, καὶ ἀδημονῶν1he was very distressed, and he longed to be with you all“he was very worried and wanted to be with you all”
125PHP227itx2figs-explicitλύπην ἐπὶ λύπην1sorrow upon sorrowThe cause of the sorrow can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “the sorrow of losing him added to the sorrow I already have from being in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
126PHP228y5gcκἀγὼ ἀλυπότερος ὦ1I can be free from anxiety“I will be less anxious” or “I will not worry as much as I have been”
127PHP229y95xπροσδέχεσθε οὖν αὐτὸν1Welcome Epaphroditus“Gladly receive Epaphroditus”
128PHP229qx14ἐν Κυρίῳ μετὰ πάσης χαρᾶς1in the Lord with all joy“as a fellow believer in the Lord with all joy” or “with the great joy we have because the Lord Jesus loves us”
129PHP230ns1yfigs-metaphorμέχρι θανάτου ἤγγισεν1he came near deathPaul here speaks of death as if it were a place that one could go to. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
130PHP230g98zfigs-metaphorἀναπληρώσῃ τὸ ὑμῶν ὑστέρημα, τῆς πρός με λειτουργίας1fill up what you could not do in service to mePaul speaks of his needs as if they were a container that Epaphroditus filled with good things for Paul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
131PHP3introbtx30# Philippians 03 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>In verses 4-8, Paul lists how he qualifies for being considered a righteous Jew. In every way, Paul was an exemplary Jew. But he contrasts this with the greatness of knowing Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Dogs<br>The people of the ancient Near East used dogs as an image to refer to people in a negative way. Not all cultures use the term “dogs” in this way.<br><br>### Resurrected Bodies<br>We know very little about what people will be like in heaven. Paul teaches here that Christians will have some kind of glorious body and will be free from sin. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Prize<br>Paul uses an extended illustration to describe the Christian life. The goal of the Christian life is attempting to grow to be like Christ until a person dies. We can never achieve this goal perfectly, but we must strive for it.<br>
132PHP31e79h0Connecting Statement:In order to warn his fellow believers about Jews who would try to get them to follow the old laws, Paul gives his own testimony about when he persecuted believers.
133PHP31s3bxτὸ λοιπόν, ἀδελφοί μου1Finally, my brothers“Now moving along, my brothers” or “Concerning other matters, my brothers”
134PHP31zu9lἀδελφοί1brothersSee how you translated this in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md).
135PHP31ymm2χαίρετε ἐν Κυρίῳ1rejoice in the Lord“be happy because of all the Lord has done”
136PHP31q4ptτὰ αὐτὰ γράφειν ὑμῖν, ἐμοὶ μὲν οὐκ ὀκνηρόν1For me to write these same things again to you is no trouble for me“It is no trouble for me to write these things again to you”
137PHP31qb78figs-explicitὑμῖν δὲ ἀσφαλές1and it keeps you safeHere “these things” refers to Pauls teachings. You can add this alternate translation to the end of the previous sentence. Alternate translation: “because these teachings will protect you from those who teach what is not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
138PHP32ny6yβλέπετε1Watch out for“Beware of” or “Look out for”
139PHP32zin8τοὺς κύνας…τοὺς κακοὺς ἐργάτας…τὴν κατατομήν1the dogs…those evil workers…those who mutilate the fleshThese are three different ways of describing the same group of false teachers. Paul is using strong expressions to convey his feeling about these Jewish Christian teachers.
140PHP32yr9nfigs-metaphorτοὺς κύνας1dogsThe word “dogs” was used by the Jews to refer to those who were not Jews. They were considered unclean. Paul speaks of the false teachers as though they were dogs, to insult them. If you have a different animal in your culture that is considered unclean or whose name is used as an insult, you could use this animal instead. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
141PHP32cka6figs-hyperboleτὴν κατατομήν1mutilatePaul is exaggerating about the act of circumcision to insult the false teachers. The false teachers said God will only save a person who is circumcised, who cuts off the foreskin. This action was required by the law of Moses for all male Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
142PHP33y8ytfigs-inclusiveἡμεῖς γάρ ἐσμεν1For it is we who arePaul uses “we” to refer to himself and all true believers in Christ, including the Philippian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
143PHP33xt5rἡ περιτομή1the circumcisionPaul uses this phrase to refer to believers in Christ who are not physically circumcised but are spiritually circumcised, which means they have received the Holy Spirit through faith. Alternate translation: “the truly circumcised ones” or “truly Gods people”
144PHP33k8phοὐκ ἐν σαρκὶ πεποιθότες1have no confidence in the flesh“do not trust that only cutting our flesh will please God”
145PHP34e346figs-hypoκαίπερ1Even so“Although if I wanted to.” Paul is introducing a hypothetical situation that could not possibly exist. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
146PHP34upw5figs-hypoἐγὼ ἔχων πεποίθησιν καὶ ἐν σαρκί. εἴ τις δοκεῖ ἄλλος πεποιθέναι ἐν σαρκί, ἐγὼ μᾶλλον1I myself could have confidence in the flesh. If anyone thinks he has confidence in the flesh, I could have even moreThis is a hypothetical situation that Paul does not believe is possible. Paul says if it were possible that God would save people based on what they did, then God would certainly have saved him. Alternate translation: “No one can do enough things to please God, but if anyone could do enough things to please God, I could do more good things and please God more than anyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
147PHP34u4f1figs-rpronounsἐγὼ1I myselfPaul uses “myself” for emphasis. Alternate translation: “certainly I” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
148PHP35yq98figs-activepassiveπεριτομῇ1I was circumcisedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “A priest circumcised me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
149PHP35am85ὀκταήμερος1the eighth day“seven days after I was born”
150PHP35p4ikἙβραῖος ἐξ Ἑβραίων1a Hebrew of HebrewsPossible meanings are 1) “a Hebrew son with Hebrew parents” or 2) “the purest Hebrew.”
151PHP35we4tκατὰ νόμον Φαρισαῖος1with regard to the law, a PhariseeThe Pharisees were committed to obeying all of the law. Being a Pharisee showed that Paul was committed to obeying all of the law. Alternate translation: “as a Pharisee, I was committed to obeying all of the law”
152PHP36ksr3κατὰ ζῆλος διώκων τὴν ἐκκλησίαν1As for zeal, I persecuted the churchPauls zeal was his enthusiasm for honoring God. He believed that by persecuting the church he proved how zealous he was for God. Alternate translation: “I had so much zeal for God that I persecuted the church” or “Because I wanted so much to honor God, I persecuted the church”
153PHP36n51bδιώκων τὴν ἐκκλησίαν1I persecuted the church“I attacked Christians”
154PHP36hln8κατὰ δικαιοσύνην τὴν ἐν νόμῳ γενόμενος ἄμεμπτος1as for righteousness under the law, I was blameless“Righteousness under the law” refers to being righteous by obeying the law. Paul obeyed the law so carefully that he believed that no one could find any part of it that he disobeyed. Alternate Translation: “I was so righteous by obeying the law that I was blameless”
155PHP37n4lgfigs-metaphorἅτινα ἦν μοι κέρδη1whatever things were a profit for mePaul is referring here to the praise he received for being an eager Pharisee. He speaks of this praise as if he had viewed it in the past as a businessmans profit. Alternate translation: “anything that other Jews praised me for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
156PHP37lb8fκέρδη…ζημίαν1profit…lossThese are common business terms. If many people in your culture do not understand formal business terms, you could translate these terms as “things that made my life better” and “things that made my life worse.”
157PHP37y1sgfigs-metaphorταῦτα ἥγημαι…ζημίαν1I have considered them as lossPaul speaks of that praise as if he were now viewing it as a business loss instead of a profit. In other words, Paul says that all his religious acts of righteousness are worthless before Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
158PHP38zi6fμενοῦνγε1In fact“Really” or “Truly”
159PHP38qdh7figs-explicitκαὶ ἡγοῦμαι1now I countThe word “now” emphasizes how Paul has changed since he quit being a Pharisee and became a believer in Christ. Alternate translation: “now that I have trusted in Christ, I count” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
160PHP38e1fpfigs-metaphorἡγοῦμαι πάντα ζημίαν εἶναι1I count all things to be lossPaul is continuing the business metaphor from [Philippians 3:7](../03/07.md), saying it is worthless to trust in anything other than Christ. Alternate translation: “I consider everything to be worthless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
161PHP38cv55διὰ τὸ ὑπερέχον τῆς γνώσεως Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου μου1because of the surpassing value of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord“because knowing Christ Jesus my Lord is worth so much more”
162PHP38afs4ἵνα Χριστὸν κερδήσω1so that I may gain Christ“so that I may have only Christ”
163PHP39iy4kfigs-idiomεὑρεθῶ ἐν αὐτῷ1be found in himThe phrase “be found” is an idiom that emphasizes the idea of “to be.” Alternate translation: “be truly united with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
164PHP39g9a9μὴ ἔχων ἐμὴν δικαιοσύνην, τὴν ἐκ νόμου1not having a righteousness of my own from the lawPaul knows that he cannot become righteous by obeying the law.
165PHP39qw6gἀλλὰ τὴν διὰ πίστεως Χριστοῦ1but that which is through faith in ChristThe word “that” refers to righteousness. Paul knows that he can become righteous only by believing in Christ. Alternate translation: “but having the righteousness that comes by believing in Christ”
166PHP310vj4sτὴν δύναμιν τῆς ἀναστάσεως αὐτοῦ1the power of his resurrection“his power that gives us life”
167PHP310xm68κοινωνίαν παθημάτων αὐτοῦ1the fellowship of his sufferings“what it is like to suffer as he suffered” or “what it is like to participate in suffering with him”
168PHP310xw42figs-activepassiveσυμμορφιζόμενος τῷ θανάτῳ αὐτοῦ1becoming like him in his deathPossible meanings are 1) Paul wants to be like Christ by dying as Christ died or 2) Paul wants his desire to sin to become as dead as Jesus was before he was raised. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
169PHP311l4rmεἴ πως καταντήσω εἰς τὴν ἐξανάστασιν τὴν ἐκ νεκρῶν1so somehow I may experience the resurrection from the deadThe word “somehow” means Paul does not know what is going to happen to him in this life, but whatever happens, it will result in eternal life. “so that, no matter what happens to me now, I will come back to life after I die”
170PHP312xk5q0Connecting Statement:Paul urges the believers at Philippi to follow his present example because of heaven and the new bodies that wait for believers. He speaks of how he works as hard as he can to be like Christ, knowing that God will allow him to live forever in heaven, as if he were a runner racing for the finish line.
171PHP312ms3vἔλαβον1received these thingsThese include knowing Christ, knowing the power of his resurrection, sharing in Christs suffering, and being united with Christ in his death and resurrection ([Philippians 3:8-11](./08.md)).
172PHP312h8p7ἢ…τετελείωμαι1or that I have become complete“so I am not yet perfect” or “so I am not yet mature”
173PHP312i5ldδιώκω δὲ1But I press on“But I keep trying”
174PHP312m52vfigs-metaphorκαταλάβω, ἐφ’ ᾧ…κατελήμφθην ὑπὸ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1I may grasp that for which I was grasped by Christ JesusReceiving spiritual things from Christ is spoken of as if Paul could grasp them with his hands. And, Jesus choosing Paul to belong to him is spoken of as if Jesus grasped Paul with his hands. This can be stated in an active form. Alternate translation: “I may receive these things because that is why Jesus claimed me as his own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
175PHP313tzg8ἀδελφοί1BrothersSee how you translated this in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md).
176PHP313kqk7figs-metaphorἐμαυτὸν…κατειληφέναι1I myself have yet grasped itReceiving spiritual things from Christ is spoken of as if Paul could grasp them with his hands. Alternate translation: “all these things belong to me yet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
177PHP313ia2bfigs-metaphorτὰ μὲν ὀπίσω ἐπιλανθανόμενος, τοῖς δὲ ἔμπροσθεν ἐπεκτεινόμενος1I forget what is behind and strain for what is aheadLike a runner in a race is no longer concerned about the part of the race that is completed but only focuses on what is ahead, Paul speaks of setting aside his religious works of righteousness and only focusing on the race of life that Christ has set before him to complete. Alternate translation: “I do not care what I have done in the past; I only work as hard as I can on what is ahead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
178PHP314z39sfigs-metaphorκατὰ σκοπὸν διώκω εἰς τὸ βραβεῖον τῆς ἄνω κλήσεως τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1I press on toward the goal to win the prize of the upward calling of God in Christ JesusAs a runner presses onward to win the race, Paul presses onward in serving and living in obedience to Christ. Alternate translation: “I do all I can to be like Christ, like a runner racing to the finish line, so that I may belong to him, and God may call me to himself after I die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
179PHP314lmr6figs-metaphorτῆς ἄνω κλήσεως1the upward callingPossible meanings are that Paul speaks of living eternally with God as if God were to call Paul to ascend 1) to heaven as Jesus did or 2) the steps to the podium where winners of races received prizes, as a metaphor for meeting God face to face and receiving eternal life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
180PHP315de4yὅσοι…τέλειοι, τοῦτο φρονῶμεν1All of us who are mature, let us think this wayPaul wants his fellow believers to have the same desires he listed in [Philippians 3:8-11](./08.md). Alternate translation: “I encourage all of us believers who are strong in the faith to think the same way”
181PHP315yy22καὶ τοῦτο ὁ Θεὸς ὑμῖν ἀποκαλύψει1God will also reveal that to you“God will also make it clear to you” or “God will make sure you know it”
182PHP316pxn9figs-inclusiveεἰς ὃ ἐφθάσαμεν, τῷ αὐτῷ στοιχεῖν1whatever we have reached, let us hold on to itPaul uses “we” to include the Philippian believers. Alternate translation: “let us all continue obeying the same truth we have already received” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
183PHP317jed4συνμιμηταί μου γίνεσθε1Be imitators of me“Do what I do” or “Live as I live”
184PHP317uxc5ἀδελφοί1brothersSee how you translated this in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md).
185PHP317h4tvτοὺς οὕτω περιπατοῦντας, καθὼς ἔχετε τύπον ἡμᾶς1those who are walking by the example that you have in us“those who already are living as I live” or “those who already are doing what I do”
186PHP318ab61πολλοὶ…περιπατοῦσιν…τοὺς ἐχθροὺς τοῦ σταυροῦ τοῦ Χριστοῦ1Many are walking…as enemies of the cross of ChristThese words are Pauls main thought for this verse.
187PHP318kr19figs-metaphorπολλοὶ…περιπατοῦσιν1Many are walkingA persons behavior is spoken of as if that person were walking along a path. Alternate translation: “Many are living” or “Many are conducting their lives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
188PHP318x2luοὓς πολλάκις ἔλεγον ὑμῖν, νῦν δὲ καὶ κλαίων, λέγω1those about whom I have often told you, and now I am telling you with tearsPaul interrupts his main thought with these words that describe the “many.” You can move them to the beginning or end of the verse if you need to.
189PHP318zwp3πολλάκις ἔλεγον ὑμῖν1I have often told you“I have told you many times”
190PHP318h6pcκλαίων, λέγω1am telling you with tears“am telling you with great sadness”
191PHP318n8q2figs-metonymyτοὺς ἐχθροὺς τοῦ σταυροῦ τοῦ Χριστοῦ1as enemies of the cross of ChristHere “the cross of Christ” refers to Christs suffering and death. The enemies are those who say they believe in Jesus but are not willing to suffer or die like Jesus did. Alternate translation: “in a way that shows they are actually against Jesus, who was willing to suffer and die on a cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
192PHP319v8gvὧν τὸ τέλος ἀπώλεια1Their end is destruction“Someday God will destroy them.” The last thing that happens to them is that God will destroy them.
193PHP319hn9ifigs-metaphorὧν ὁ Θεὸς ἡ κοιλία1their god is their stomachHere “stomach” refers to a persons desires for physical pleasure. Calling it their god means that they want these pleasures more than they want to obey God. Alternate translation: “they desire food and other physical pleasures more than they desire to obey God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
194PHP319u9clfigs-metonymyἡ δόξα ἐν τῇ αἰσχύνῃ αὐτῶν1their pride is in their shameHere “shame” stands for the actions that the people should be ashamed about but are not. Alternate translation: “they are proud of the things that should cause them shame” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
195PHP319sv5zfigs-metonymyοἱ τὰ ἐπίγεια φρονοῦντες1They think about earthly thingsHere “earthly” refers to everything that gives physical pleasure and does not honor God. Alternate translation: “All they think about is what will please themselves rather than what will please God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
196PHP320q1ccfigs-inclusive0General Information:By Pauls use of “our” and “we” here, he includes himself and the believers in Philippi. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
197PHP320n2lhἡμῶν…τὸ πολίτευμα ἐν οὐρανοῖς ὑπάρχει1our citizenship is in heavenPossible meanings are 1) “we are citizens of heaven” or 2) “our homeland is heaven” or 3) “our true home is heaven.”
198PHP321eye2ὃς μετασχηματίσει τὸ σῶμα τῆς ταπεινώσεως ἡμῶν1He will transform our lowly bodies“He will change our weak, earthly bodies”
199PHP321b2bcσύμμορφον τῷ σώματι τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ1into bodies formed like his glorious body“into bodies like his glorious body”
200PHP321qz6pfigs-activepassiveτῷ σώματι…κατὰ τὴν ἐνέργειαν τοῦ δύνασθαι αὐτὸν, καὶ ὑποτάξαι αὑτῷ τὰ πάντα1body, formed by the might of his power to subject all things to himselfThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “body. He will change our bodies with the same power he uses to control all things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
201PHP4introrp5c0# Philippians 04 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “My joy and my crown”<br>Paul had helped the Philippians become spiritually mature. As a result, Paul rejoiced and God honored him and his work. He considered discipling other Christians and encouraging them to grow spiritually as important to Christian living. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/disciple]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Euodia and Syntyche<br>Apparently, these two women disagreed with each other. Paul was encouraging them to agree. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
202PHP41zk6qfigs-you0General Information:When Paul says, “my true companion,” the word “you” is singular. Paul does not say the name of the person. He calls him that to show he worked with Paul to spread the gospel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
203PHP41xmc40Connecting Statement:Paul continues with some specific instructions to the believers in Philippi on unity and then gives instructions to help them live for the Lord.
204PHP41fe2yὥστε, ἀδελφοί μου ἀγαπητοὶ καὶ ἐπιπόθητοι1Therefore, my beloved brothers whom I long for“My fellow believers, I love you and I greatly desire to see you”
205PHP41ngs7ἀδελφοί1brothersSee how you translated this in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md).
206PHP41wx5wfigs-metonymyχαρὰ καὶ στέφανός μου1my joy and crownPaul uses the word “joy” to mean that the Philippian church is the cause of his happiness. A “crown” was made of leaves, and a man wore it on his head as a sign of honor after he won an important game. Here the word “crown” means the Philippian church brought honor to Paul before God. Alternate translation: “You give me joy because you have believed in Jesus, and you are my reward and honor for my work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
207PHP41dz44οὕτως στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ, ἀγαπητοί1in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved friends“so continue living for the Lord in the way that I have taught you, dear friends”
208PHP42x5qftranslate-namesΕὐοδίαν παρακαλῶ, καὶ Συντύχην παρακαλῶ1I am pleading with Euodia, and I am pleading with SyntycheThese are women who were believers and helped Paul in the church at Philippi. Alternate translation: “I beg Euodia, and I beg Syntyche” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
209PHP42iyq7figs-metonymyτὸ αὐτὸ φρονεῖν ἐν Κυρίῳ1be of the same mind in the LordThe phrase “be of the same mind” means to have the same attitude or opinion. Alternate translation: “agree with each other because you both believe in the same Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
210PHP43yb3ffigs-youναὶ, ἐρωτῶ…σέ, γνήσιε σύνζυγε1Yes, I ask you, my true companionHere “you” refers to the “true fellow worker” and is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
211PHP43hdz7figs-metaphorγνήσιε σύνζυγε1true companionThis metaphor is from farming, where two animals would be bound to the same yoke, and so they work together. Alternate translation: “fellow worker” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
212PHP43cm3utranslate-namesμετὰ…Κλήμεντος1along with ClementClement was a man who was a believer and worker in the church at Philippi. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
213PHP43s9h9ὧν τὰ ὀνόματα ἐν βίβλῳ ζωῆς1whose names are in the Book of Life“whose names God has written in the Book of Life”
214PHP44elt7χαίρετε ἐν Κυρίῳ1Rejoice in the Lord“be happy because of all the Lord has done.” See how you translated this in [Philippians 3:1](../03/01.md).
215PHP45snk5ὁ Κύριος ἐγγύς1The Lord is nearPossible meanings are 1) The Lord Jesus is near to the believers in spirit or 2) the day the Lord Jesus will return to the earth is near.
216PHP46h63gἐν παντὶ, τῇ προσευχῇ καὶ τῇ δεήσει μετὰ εὐχαριστίας, τὰ αἰτήματα ὑμῶν γνωριζέσθω πρὸς τὸν Θεόν1in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God“whatever happens to you, ask God for everything you need with prayer and thanks”
217PHP47u1szἡ εἰρήνη τοῦ Θεοῦ1the peace of God“the peace that God gives”
218PHP47zr4xἡ ὑπερέχουσα πάντα νοῦν1which surpasses all understanding“which is more than we can understand”
219PHP47sb6sfigs-personificationφρουρήσει τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν καὶ τὰ νοήματα ὑμῶν ἐν Χριστῷ1will guard your hearts and your thoughts in ChristThis presents Gods peace as a soldier who protects our hearts and thoughts from worrying. Here “hearts” is a metonym for a persons emotions. Alternate translation: “will be like a soldier and guard your emotions and thoughts in Christ” or “will protect you in Christ and will keep you from worrying about the troubles of this life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
220PHP48b8igτὸ λοιπόν1FinallyAs Paul ends his letter, he gives a summary of how believers should live to have peace with God.
221PHP48fxn5ἀδελφοί1brothersSee how you translated this in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md).
222PHP48r275ὅσα προσφιλῆ1whatever things are lovely“whatever things are pleasing”
223PHP48pv1iὅσα εὔφημα1whatever things are of good report“whatever thing people admire” or “whatever things people respect”
224PHP48i5glεἴ τις ἀρετὴ1if there is anything excellent“if they are morally good”
225PHP48e9ebεἴ τις ἔπαινος1if there is anything to be praised“and if they are things that people praise”
226PHP49m145καὶ ἐμάθετε καὶ παρελάβετε, καὶ ἠκούσατε καὶ εἴδετε, ἐν ἐμοί1that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me“that I have taught and shown you”
227PHP410pwh90Connecting Statement:Paul begins to thank the Philippians for a gift that they have sent him. He begins in verse 11 to explain that he is thanking them for this gift simply because he is grateful, not because he needs them to give him anything more.
228PHP411ts2kαὐτάρκης εἶναι1to be content“to be satisfied” or “to be happy”
229PHP411ew5eἐν οἷς εἰμι1in all circumstances“no matter what my situation is”
230PHP412lgp9figs-explicitοἶδα καὶ ταπεινοῦσθαι…περισσεύειν1I know what it is to be poor…to have plentyPaul knows how to live happily having either no possessions or many possessions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
231PHP412i9vpfigs-parallelismχορτάζεσθαι καὶ πεινᾶν, καὶ περισσεύειν καὶ ὑστερεῖσθαι1how to be well-fed or to be hungry, and how to have an abundance or to be in needThese two phrases mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize that he has learned how to be content in any situation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
232PHP413z1pbπάντα ἰσχύω ἐν τῷ ἐνδυναμοῦντί με1I can do all things through him who strengthens me“I can do all things because Christ gives me strength”
233PHP414bs720Connecting Statement:Paul continues explaining that he is thanking the Philippians for their gift to him simply because he is grateful, not because he needs them to give him anything more (see [Philippians 3:11](../03/11.md)).
234PHP414fe2zfigs-metaphorμου τῇ θλίψει1in my difficultiesPaul speaks of his hardships as if they were a place that he was in. Alternate translation: “when things became difficult” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
235PHP415w23wfigs-metonymyἀρχῇ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1the beginning of the gospelPaul refers to the gospel here as meaning his preaching of the gospel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
236PHP415dyf8figs-doublenegativesοὐδεμία μοι ἐκκλησία ἐκοινώνησεν εἰς λόγον δόσεως καὶ λήμψεως, εἰ μὴ ὑμεῖς μόνοι1no church supported me in the matter of giving and receiving except you aloneThis can be stated in the positive. Alternate translation: “you were the only church that sent me money or helped me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
237PHP417e9g9οὐχ ὅτι ἐπιζητῶ τὸ δόμα1It is not that I seek the giftPaul is explaining that his reason for writing about gifts is not that he hopes that they will give him more gifts. Alternate Translation: “My reason for writing this is not that I want you to give me more”
238PHP417bh3tfigs-metaphorἐπιζητῶ τὸν καρπὸν τὸν πλεονάζοντα εἰς λόγον ὑμῶν1I seek the fruit that increases to your creditPaul explains his reason for writing about gifts. Here “fruit that increases to you credit” is a metaphor for either 1) more good deeds that can be recorded for the Philippians. Alternate translation: “Rather I want God to recognize the increasing good deeds that you do” or 2) more blessings for the good things that the Philippians do. Alternate translation: “Rather I want God to bless you more because of the good deeds that you do”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
239PHP418p6y10Connecting Statement:Paul finishes thanking the Philippians for their gift (see [Philippians 3:11](../03/11.md)) and assures them that God will take care of them.
240PHP418fs44ἀπέχω…πάντα1I have received everything in fullPossible meanings are 1) Paul has received everything that the Philippians sent or 2) Paul is using humor to continue the business metaphor from [Philippians 3:8](../03/08.md) and saying that this part of the letter is a receipt for commercial goods that Epaphroditus delivered.
241PHP418en6tfigs-explicitπερισσεύω1even morePaul means plenty of the things that he needs for himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
242PHP418s68vfigs-metaphorὀσμὴν εὐωδίας, θυσίαν δεκτήν, εὐάρεστον τῷ Θεῷ1They are a sweet-smelling aroma, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to GodPaul speaks of the gift from the Philippian church as if it were a sacrifice offered to God on an altar. Paul implies that the churchs gift is very pleasing to God, like the sacrifices that the priests burned, which had a smell that pleased God. Alternate translation: “I assure you these gifts are very pleasing to God, like an acceptable sacrifice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
243PHP419r96pfigs-idiomπληρώσει πᾶσαν χρείαν ὑμῶν1will meet all your needsThis is the same word translated “have been well-supplied” in verse 18. It is an idiom meaning “will provide everything you need” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
244PHP419xmk2κατὰ τὸ πλοῦτος αὐτοῦ ἐν δόξῃ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus“from his glorious riches that he gives through Christ Jesus”
245PHP420fba5τῷ δὲ Θεῷ…ἡμῶν1Now to our GodThe word “Now” marks the closing prayer and the end of this section of the letter.
246PHP421h2jrοἱ…ἀδελφοί1The brothersThis refers to those people who were either ministering with or to Paul.
247PHP421z65aἀδελφοί1brothersSee how you translated this in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md).
248PHP421lq4eπάντα ἅγιον1every believerSome versions translate this as “every holy person.”
249PHP422bi8mπάντες οἱ ἅγιοι1All the believersSome versions translate this as “All the holy people.”
250PHP422rg96μάλιστα…οἱ ἐκ τῆς Καίσαρος οἰκίας1especially those of Caesars householdThis refers to servants who worked in Caesars palace. “especially the fellow believers who work in the palace of Caesar”
251PHP423a3f8figs-synecdocheμετὰ τοῦ πνεύματος ὑμῶν1with your spiritPaul refers to the believers by using the word “spirit,” which is what enables humans to relate to God. Alternate translation: “with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])