Devine Scripture

Philippians 4:14

What does Philippians 4:14 mean?

A plain-English look at Philippians 4:14 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Philippians 4:14 means

Paul acknowledges that the Philippians did well to share in his affliction. Their generosity was more than a financial transaction; it was fellowship—participation in the hardships of gospel ministry. By standing with a suffering apostle, they bore reproach and cost with him. This commendation keeps gratitude personal and relational, not merely doctrinal. Even as Paul rests in Christ’s strength, he recognizes that God often supplies through the care of his people. Their act reflects the love of Christ and proves the authenticity of their partnership. Sharing burdens is at the heart of Christian community and mission, and Paul honors them for embracing that costly solidarity.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Howbeit ye did well that ye had fellowship with my affliction.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Howbeit ye did well that ye had fellowship with my affliction.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But you did well to have care for me in my need.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

but ye did well, having communicated with my tribulation;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Nevertheless, you have done well in communicating to my tribulation.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But ye have done well in taking part in my affliction.

Context

After asserting contentment in Christ, Paul affirms the goodness of the Philippians’ practical support. He will now remind them how singular and consistent that support has been since the early days (verses 15–16). Then he will clarify that his concern is not the gift itself but the spiritual fruit that accrues to them (verse 17), before describing their offering in worship terms and noting Epaphroditus’s role (verse 18). The section will culminate in a sweeping promise of God’s provision (verse 19).

v.13I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me.

v.14This passage

v.15And ye yourselves also know, ye Philippians, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church had fellowship with me in the matter of giving and receiving but ye only;

Cross references

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

  • 3 John 1:5

    Beloved, thou doest a faithful work in whatsoever thou doest toward them that are brethren and strangers withal;

  • 1 Timothy 6:18

    that they do good, that they be rich in good works, that they be ready to distribute, willing to communicate;

  • 2 Chronicles 6:8

    But Jehovah said unto David my father, Whereas it was in thy heart to build a house for my name, thou didst well that it was in thy heart:

  • 1 Kings 8:18

    But Jehovah said unto David my father, Whereas it was in thy heart to build a house for my name, thou didst well that it was in thy heart:

  • Galatians 6:6

    But let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

  • 1 Corinthians 9:10

    or saith he it assuredly for our sake? Yea, for our sake it was written: because he that ploweth ought to plow in hope, and he that thresheth, to thresh in hope of partaking.

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