Devine Scripture

Philippians 4:18

What does Philippians 4:18 mean?

A plain-English look at Philippians 4:18 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Philippians 4:18 means

Paul says he has all he needs and more, having received the Philippians’ gift through Epaphroditus. He interprets their generosity in priestly terms: an aromatic offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. This lifts their act from mere aid to worship. God notices and delights in sacrificial love expressed to his servants and his mission. By naming Epaphroditus, Paul acknowledges the costly service of the messenger who risked much to deliver the gift. The language assures the Philippians that their support truly honored God and tangibly refreshed Paul. Material sharing, offered in faith, becomes spiritual incense before the Lord.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

But I have all things, and abound: I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things that came from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

But I have all things, and abound: I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things that came from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

I have all things and more than enough: I am made full, having had from Epaphroditus the things which came from you, a perfume of a sweet smell, an offering well pleasing to God.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and I have all things, and abound; I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things from you--an odour of a sweet smell--a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God:

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But I have all and abound: I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things you sent, an odour of sweetness, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But I have all things in full supply and abound; I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things [sent] from you, an odour of sweet savour, an acceptable sacrifice, agreeable toGod.

Context

With motives clarified, Paul affirms he is amply supplied and frames their gift theologically. This prepares for the great promise in verse 19: as they have supplied Paul’s needs, God will supply theirs. The section then ascends to a doxology in verse 20, returning all glory to God. The chapter will close with greetings and a benediction that reinforce shared fellowship and grace.

v.17Not that I seek for the gift; but I seek for the fruit that increaseth to your account.

v.18This passage

v.19And my God shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

Cross references

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

  • Hebrews 13:16

    But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

  • 1 Peter 2:5

    ye also, as living stones, are built up a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

  • Romans 12:1

    I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service.

  • 2 Thessalonians 1:3

    We are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren, even as it is meet, for that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the love of each one of you all toward one another aboundeth;

  • 2 Corinthians 9:12

    For the ministration of this service not only filleth up the measure of the wants of the saints, but aboundeth also through many thanksgivings unto God;

  • Ephesians 5:2

    and walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for an odor of a sweet smell.

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