Devine Scripture

Philippians 2:21

What does Philippians 2:21 mean?

A plain-English look at Philippians 2:21 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Philippians 2:21 means

Paul laments that many seek their own interests rather than the things of Jesus Christ. This stinging contrast sets Timothy apart. It echoes the earlier call to look to others’ needs and mirrors Christ’s own mindset. The verse warns that self-interest can infiltrate even ministry circles. Faithfulness is measured by alignment with Jesus’ priorities, not personal advantage or reputation. By highlighting the commonness of self-seeking, Paul both commends Timothy and challenges the church to evaluate motives. A Christ-first, others-serving heart is rare and precious, and it is essential for the unity and witness Paul desires for the Philippians.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

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

KJV

King James Version · 1611

For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

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

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For they all go after what is theirs, not after the things of Christ.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for the whole seek their own things, not the things of the Christ Jesus,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For all seek the things that are their own not the things that are Jesus Christ's.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

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

Context

After praising Timothy’s unique concern (v. 20), Paul notes the general problem: many prioritize themselves over Christ’s interests (v. 21). In verse 22, he will pivot back to Timothy’s proven track record as a faithful coworker. Together, these verses reinforce the chapter’s central ethic—selfless, Christlike service—and prepare the Philippians to receive Timothy’s ministry as a continuation of Paul’s own heart for them. The flow contrasts poor examples with a good one to sharpen the church’s discernment.

v.20For I have no man likeminded, who will care truly for your state.

v.21This passage

v.22But ye know the proof of him, that, as a child serveth a father, so he served with me in furtherance of the gospel.

Cross references

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

  • Luke 9:57

    And as they went on the way, a certain man said unto him, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.

  • Isaiah 56:11

    Yea, the dogs are greedy, they can never have enough; and these are shepherds that cannot understand: they have all turned to their own way, each one to his gain, from every quarter.

  • Philippians 2:4

    not looking each of you to his own things, but each of you also to the things of others.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:33

    even as I also please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of the many, that they may be saved.

  • Acts 13:13

    Now Paul and his company set sail from Paphos, and came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departed from them and returned to Jerusalem.

  • 2 Timothy 3:2

    For men shall be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, haughty, railers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,

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