Devine Scripture

Philippians 4:20

What does Philippians 4:20 mean?

A plain-English look at Philippians 4:20 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Philippians 4:20 means

Paul erupts in doxology: glory belongs to “our God and Father” forever. The response to God’s generous care is worship. Calling God “our” Father underscores shared adoption and family identity. Glory is not merely verbal praise but the honor of lives that reflect his worth. The eternal horizon reinforces the earlier call to stand fast and rejoice; this God will never fail his people. By positioning praise immediately after the promise of provision, Paul guards against self-congratulation and centers gratitude where it belongs. All ministry, giving, and endurance return to the praise of God’s name without end. “Amen” seals the church’s agreement.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Now unto our God and Father be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Now unto our God and Father be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Now to God our Father be glory for ever and ever. So be it.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and to God, even our Father, <FI>is<Fi> the glory--to the ages of the ages. Amen.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Now to God and our Father be glory, world without end. Amen.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But to ourGod and Father [be] glory to the ages of ages. Amen.

Context

The assurance of verse 19 naturally leads to adoration. Doxology frames the entire letter—joy, unity, contentment, and partnership exist for God’s glory. With praise given, Paul moves to final greetings (verses 21–22), showing communal bonds across distance and circumstance. The closing benediction (verse 23) will leave the Philippians under Christ’s grace, the very theme that has sustained every exhortation in the letter.

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

v.20This passage

v.21Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren that are with me salute you.

Cross references

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

  • Jude 1:25

    to the only God our Saviour, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and power, before all time, and now, and for evermore. Amen.

  • Matthew 6:12

    And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.

  • Revelation 4:9

    And when the living creatures shall give glory and honor and thanks to him that sitteth on the throne, to him that liveth for ever and ever,

  • Psalms 115:1

    Not unto us, O Jehovah, not unto us, But unto thy name give glory, For thy lovingkindness, and for thy truth’s sake.

  • Revelation 11:13

    And in that hour there was a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell; and there were killed in the earthquake seven thousand persons: and the rest were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of heaven.

  • Matthew 6:9

    After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

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