Devine Scripture

Philippians 2:20

What does Philippians 2:20 mean?

A plain-English look at Philippians 2:20 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Philippians 2:20 means

Paul highlights Timothy’s rare, like-minded heart. Among Paul’s companions, none shares his pastoral mindset to the same degree or will genuinely care for the Philippians’ welfare as Timothy will. This compliments Timothy’s character and underscores the scarcity of selfless shepherds. True concern is not flattery or mere duty; it is sincere, Christ-shaped interest in others’ spiritual good. Timothy embodies the mindset of verse 4—looking to the things of others. His example urges believers to value and cultivate leaders who mirror Christ’s care, and to imitate such concern in their own relationships within the body.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

For I have no man likeminded, who will care truly for your state.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

For I have no man likeminded, who will care truly for your state.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For I have no man of like mind who will truly have care for you.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for I have no one like-minded, who sincerely for the things concerning you will care,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For I have no man so of the same mind, who with sincere affection is solicitous for you.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

For I have no one like-minded who will care with genuine feeling how ye get on.

Context

Continuing his plan to send Timothy (v. 19), Paul explains why Timothy is uniquely suited (v. 20): he shares Paul’s heart and will truly look after them. Verse 21 will contrast this with those who seek their own interests, while verse 22 will recall Timothy’s proven service. This mini-portrait of Timothy serves the chapter’s theme by putting flesh on the call to Christlike humility and concern. It prepares the church to welcome Timothy’s ministry and to recognize in him a pattern worth following.

v.19But 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.

v.20This passage

v.21For they all seek their own, not the things of Jesus Christ.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Proverbs 31:29

    Many daughters have done worthily, But thou excellest them all.

  • 1 Samuel 18:1

    And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.

  • 2 Timothy 1:5

    having been reminded of the unfeigned faith that is in thee; which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and, I am persuaded, in thee also.

  • Philippians 2:22

    But ye know the proof of him, that, as a child serveth a father, so he served with me in furtherance of the gospel.

  • John 12:6

    Now this he said, not because he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and having the bag took away what was put therein.

  • 1 Corinthians 16:10

    Now if Timothy come, see that he be with you without fear; for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do:

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