Philippians 1:25
What does Philippians 1:25 mean?
A plain-English look at Philippians 1:25 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Philippians 1:25 means
Paul, persuaded of what is best for the church, expresses confidence that he will remain and continue with all of them for their advancement and joy in the faith. He sees his ongoing presence as a means God will use to deepen their trust in Christ and increase their delight in Him. Progress and joy belong together: growth in sound doctrine and obedience fuels gladness in God. Paul’s expectation is pastoral, not self-serving. He anticipates that God will extend his ministry for the Philippians’ sake, so that their faith becomes more mature, resilient, and happy in Christ despite pressures around them.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide, yea, and abide with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith;
KJV
King James Version · 1611And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide, yea, and abide with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith;
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And being certain of this, I am conscious that I will go on, yes, and go on with you all, for your growth and joy in the faith;
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and of this being persuaded, I have known that I shall remain and continue with you all, to your advancement and joy of the faith,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all, for your furtherance and joy of faith:
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890and having confidence of this, I know that I shall remain and abide along with you all, for your progress and joy in faith;
Context
Following the recognition of their need (verse 24), Paul states his expectation to remain for their benefit. Verse 26 will add the purpose that their boasting in Christ might overflow because of his return to them. With his personal situation addressed, he will shift in verse 27 to exhortations about a manner of life worthy of the gospel, unity, and courage in the face of adversaries.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Romans 15:18
For I will not dare to speak of any things save those which Christ wrought through me, for the obedience of the Gentiles, by word and deed,
- Philippians 2:24
but I trust in the Lord that I myself also shall come shortly.
- Ephesians 4:11
And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
- Acts 11:23
who, when he was come, and had seen the grace of God, was glad; and he exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord:
- Psalms 60:6
God hath spoken in his holiness: I will exult; I will divide Shechem, and mete out the valley of Succoth.
- Romans 15:13
Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, in the power of the Holy Spirit.
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