Philippians 1:4
What does Philippians 1:4 mean?
A plain-English look at Philippians 1:4 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Philippians 1:4 means
Paul’s prayers for the Philippians are constant and joyful. He intercedes for all of them, not just a favored few. His joy is not shallow optimism; it springs from seeing God’s grace at work among them. Prayer is the channel by which his thanksgiving turns into petition. Even in chains, his heart is free to rejoice as he brings their needs to the Father. This models a Christlike posture: carrying others to God faithfully, with delight, and refusing to let hardship choke intercession. Their wellbeing and growth are the steady themes of his supplication, reflecting his pastoral care from a distance.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000always in every supplication of mine on behalf of you all making my supplication with joy,
KJV
King James Version · 1611Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901always in every supplication of mine on behalf of you all making my supplication with joy,
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And in all my prayers for you all, making my request with joy,
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862always, in every supplication of mine for you all, with joy making the supplication,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Always in all my prayers making supplication for you all with joy:
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890constantly in my every supplication, making the supplication for you all with joy,
Context
Building on verse 3’s thanksgiving, Paul explains that his gratitude is expressed through continual, joyful prayer. He emphasizes his concern for all of them, prefiguring his later calls to unity and humility. Verse 5 will give the specific reason for his joy—their partnership in the gospel—while verses 6–8 will deepen his confidence and affection. The movement continues toward a focused prayer for their growth in love and discernment in verses 9–11.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Philippians 4:1
Wherefore, my brethren beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my beloved.
- Romans 1:9
For God is my witness, whom I serve in my spirit in the gospel of his Son, how unceasingly I make mention of you, always in my prayers
- Philippians 1:9
And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and all discernment;
- Philippians 2:2
make full my joy, that ye be of the same mind, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind;
- Philemon 1:7
For I had much joy and comfort in thy love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through thee, brother.
- Colossians 2:5
For though I am absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.
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