Philippians 4:10-20
New Catholic Bible
Acknowledgment of the Community’s Gift[a]
10 Contentment in Any Circumstances. I rejoice greatly in the Lord that now at last you have renewed your concern for me. You were, of course, concerned about me, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I do not say this because I have been in need, for I have learned to be content with whatever I have.
12 I know how to live with little, and I know how to live with plenty. In any and all circumstances, I have learned the secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. 13 I can do all things in him who strengthens me.
14 Philippian Generosity. Even so, it was kind of you to share my difficulties. 15 You Philippians are aware that in the early days of the gospel[b] when I set out from Macedonia, not a single Church other than yours shared with me in giving and receiving. 16 Even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me something for my needs on more than one occasion.
17 Do not think that it is the gift that I value most. What I desire is for the interest to mount up in your account. 18 I have been paid in full and have more than enough. I am satisfied now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice pleasing to God.[c] 19 And my God will fully supply all your needs out of the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
20 Doxology. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Read full chapterFootnotes
- Philippians 4:10 Even when in need, Paul did not want to depend on the communities for material help (see 1 Cor 9:14, 18; 2 Cor 11:7-10; 12:13-18; 1 Thes 2:5-9; 2 Thes 3:7-9), and he made no exception except for the Christians of Philippi with whom he had especially cordial ties. Like a true poor person, he remains free in any situation, enriched or deprived, ready to accept whatever will come—for the important thing is to serve the Gospel.
- Philippians 4:15 Early days of the gospel: during Paul’s second missionary journey, when he first preached the Gospel in Europe at Philippi (Acts 16:9ff).
- Philippians 4:18 A fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice pleasing to God: Paul sees the Philippians’ gift to him in terms of the Old Testament sacrifice of thanksgiving and praise (see Lev 7:12-15; Rom 12:1; Eph 5:2; Heb 13:15f).
