Devine Scripture

Philippians 4:1

What does Philippians 4:1 mean?

A plain-English look at Philippians 4:1 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Philippians 4:1 means

Paul addresses the Philippians with warm affection, calling them his “beloved,” his “joy and crown.” He sees their steadfast faith as the prize of his ministry, like a runner’s wreath at the finish. On that basis he urges them to “stand fast in the Lord.” Stability is rooted not in favorable circumstances or strong personalities, but in their union with Christ. The command assumes pressures—persecution, false teaching, and internal tensions—that could unsettle them. By reminding them of their value to him and to God, Paul strengthens their resolve. Perseverance is not grim stubbornness but a confident, affectionate loyalty to the Lord who holds them fast and makes them fruitful.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Wherefore, my brethren beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my beloved.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Wherefore, my brethren beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my beloved.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

So my brothers, well loved and very dear to me, my joy and crown, be strong in the Lord, my loved ones.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

So then, my brethren, beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand ye in the Lord, beloved.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Therefore my dearly beloved brethren and most desired, my joy and my crown: so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

So that, my brethren, beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, thus stand fast in [the] Lord, beloved.

Context

The “wherefore” reaches back to chapter 3, where Paul contrasted heavenly citizenship with earthly-mindedness and promised the Savior’s transforming return. Because their hope is anchored in Christ’s coming, they must now live steady, anchored lives. This opening sets the tone for the chapter’s practical exhortations—unity, joy, prayer, and holy thinking. Immediately, Paul will apply this call to stand firm to a concrete situation in the church, addressing two women by name. The flow moves from big-picture identity and hope to specific relationships and habits that preserve the church’s stability and witness.

v.1This passage

v.2I exhort Euodia, and I exhort Syntyche, to be of the same mind in the Lord.

Cross references

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

  • Philippians 1:8

    For God is my witness, how I long after you all in the tender mercies of Christ Jesus.

  • Hebrews 3:14

    for we are become partakers of Christ, if we hold fast the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end:

  • Colossians 4:12

    Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, saluteth you, always striving for you in his prayers, that ye may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God.

  • Philippians 1:27

    Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ: that, whether I come and see you or be absent, I may hear of your state, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one soul striving for the faith of the gospel;

  • Hebrews 10:35

    Cast not away therefore your boldness, which hath great recompense of reward.

  • 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:

Related questions readers ask

Keep reading

Want to dig deeper? Explore Philippians 4

Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Philippians 4.

Keep exploring

Follow this verse across Scripture

Topics, devotionals, original-language word studies, and figures connected to Philippians 4:1.

Browse every hub

BibleTopicsBible answersDevotionalsFamous passagesWord studiesPeoplePlacesVerses for…Reading plansCommentary