Philippians 2:19
What does Philippians 2:19 mean?
A plain-English look at Philippians 2:19 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Philippians 2:19 means
Paul’s hope in the Lord Jesus is to send Timothy soon so he can be encouraged by news of the Philippians’ condition. His trust is not in circumstances but in the Lord’s ordering. Sending Timothy shows pastoral concern: Paul wants accurate insight into their spiritual health and unity. He believes their steadfastness will comfort him. Leadership in Christ’s church includes knowing people truly, not from rumors but through faithful messengers. Paul’s confidence that he will be cheered by their state hints at his expectation of their obedience to the exhortations he has given, especially regarding unity and selfless love.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.
KJV
King James Version · 1611But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949But I am hoping in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you before long, so that I may be comforted when I have news of you.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862And I hope, in the Lord Jesus, Timotheus to send quickly to you, that I also may be of good spirit, having known the things concerning you,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy unto you shortly, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know the things concerning you.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890But I hope in [the] Lord Jesus to send Timotheus to you shortly, that I also may be refreshed, knowing how ye get on.
Context
After calling the Philippians to rejoice with him (v. 18), Paul outlines plans to send Timothy (vv. 19–23). This section displays living examples of the Christlike mind: Timothy’s genuine care (vv. 20–22) and Paul’s own trust in the Lord (v. 19). Then Paul expresses hope to come himself (v. 24) and describes sending Epaphroditus immediately (vv. 25–30). The flow shifts from theological foundation and exhortation to concrete relational steps intended to strengthen the church’s unity and encourage their hearts.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 1 Thessalonians 3:6
But when Timothy came even now unto us from you, and brought us glad tidings of your faith and love, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, longing to see us, even as we also to see you;
- Colossians 4:8
whom I have sent unto you for this very purpose, that ye may know our state, and that he may comfort your hearts;
- Philippians 2:28
I have sent him therefore the more diligently, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful.
- 1 Thessalonians 3:2
and sent Timothy, our brother and God’s minister in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith;
- Romans 15:12
And again, Isaiah saith, There shall be the root of Jesse, And he that ariseth to rule over the Gentiles; On him shall the Gentiles hope.
- Romans 16:21
Timothy my fellow-worker saluteth you; and Lucius and Jason and Sosipater, my kinsmen.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Philippians 2
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Philippians 2.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Community
The Bible emphasizes the importance of community as a reflection of God's design for humanity and a source of strength and growth
Topic
Bible Verses About Complaining
The Bible consistently warns against complaining, portraying it as a sign of distrust in God and a hindrance to joy and spiritual growth
Topic
Bible Verses About Conflict Resolution
What does the Bible teach us about resolving conflicts and finding peace with others according to God's Word?
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for a Panic Attack at Night
Steady, slow verses to pray when your chest is tight and the house is dark.
Verses for
Bible Verses for Anxiety Before a Job Interview
Quiet your nerves and walk in with steady steps — six verses to pray on the way.
Verses for
Bible Verses for Fear of Failure
When the fear of failing is louder than the dream — verses to keep moving.