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 · 2000

And 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 · 1611

And 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 · 1901

And 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 · 1949

And 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 · 1862

and 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) · 1752

And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all, for your furtherance and joy of faith:

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

and 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.

v.24yet to abide in the flesh is more needful for your sake.

v.25This passage

v.26that your glorying may abound in Christ Jesus in me through my presence with you again.

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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