Philippians 2:16

KJV

Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

KJV (with Strong's)

Holding forth {G1907} the word {G3056} of life {G2222}; that {G1519} I {G1698} may rejoice {G2745} in {G1519} the day {G2250} of Christ {G5547}, that {G3754} I have {G5143} not {G3756} run {G5143} in {G1519} vain {G2756}, neither {G3761} laboured {G2872} in {G1519} vain {G2756}.

Complete Jewish Bible

as you hold on to the Word of Life. If you do this, I will be able to boast, when the Day of the Messiah comes, that I did not run or toil for nothing.

Berean Standard Bible

as you hold forth the word of life, in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.

American Standard Version

holding forth the word of life; that I may have whereof to glory in the day of Christ, that I did not run in vain neither labor in vain.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philippians 2:16 serves as a powerful apostolic exhortation, urging believers to actively embody and proclaim the gospel message, thereby shining as lights in a dark world. Paul expresses his earnest desire that the Philippians' steadfastness in faith and their outward witness will validate his strenuous missionary efforts, ensuring his joy and vindication on the future "day of Christ," when all faithful service will be recognized and rewarded.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Paul's profound appeal for Christian unity and humility, which begins with the magnificent Christ hymn in [Philippians 2:5-11](/philippians/2-5-11 "Philippians 2:5-11 - The Humility and Exaltation of Christ"). Having presented Christ's self-emptying as the ultimate model, Paul then transitions to the believers' responsibility to "work out their own salvation with fear and trembling" ([Philippians 2:12](/philippians/2-12 "Philippians 2:12 - Work Out Your Salvation")). The immediate preceding verses ([Philippians 2:14-15](/philippians/2-14-15 "Philippians 2:14-15 - Blameless and Harmless")) call for a life "without murmurings and disputings," so that they may be "blameless and harmless, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world." Thus, "holding forth the word of life" in [Philippians 2:16](/philippians/2-16 "Philippians 2:16 - Holding Forth the Word of Life") is the practical, outward expression of this blameless, light-shining existence, demonstrating the transforming power of the gospel to a watching world.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Philippi was a Roman colony, enjoying special privileges and populated by many Roman citizens. This meant a strong presence of Roman culture, law, and emperor worship, which often stood in direct contrast to Christian monotheism and allegiance to Christ alone. The "crooked and twisted generation" Paul mentions refers not only to the general moral decay of the pagan world but also specifically to the pressures and temptations of conforming to Roman societal norms. Paul himself was in prison while writing this letter, which adds a layer of urgency and personal investment to his exhortation. His concern that his labor not be "in vain" reflects the immense personal cost and suffering he endured for the sake of the gospel, a common theme in his epistles as he sought to encourage and validate his ministry among the churches he founded.

* **Key Themes:** [Philippians 2:16](/philippians/2-16 "Philippians 2:16 - Holding Forth the Word of Life") contributes significantly to several key themes in the book of Philippians. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Christian Witness and Evangelism**, emphasizing the active role believers play in proclaiming the life-giving message of the gospel, not just verbally but through their transformed lives, as "lights in the world" ([Philippians 2:15](/philippians/2-15 "Philippians 2:15 - Shining as Lights")). Secondly, it highlights **Paul's Apostolic Concern and Joy**, revealing his deep desire that his arduous ministry and personal sacrifices for the Philippian church would not prove fruitless, but rather result in their steadfastness and spiritual maturity, which would be his "boasting" or "rejoicing" on the "day of Christ" ([Philippians 2:16](/philippians/2-16 "Philippians 2:16 - Paul's Joy in the Day of Christ")). Finally, the verse reinforces the theme of **Perseverance and Purpose in Ministry**, using the athletic imagery of running and laboring to convey the intense effort and dedication required in Christian service, ensuring that such efforts are purposeful and ultimately rewarded, as seen in Paul's broader reflections on the Christian race ([Philippians 3:12-14](/philippians/3-12-14 "Philippians 3:12-14 - Pressing On Toward the Goal")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Holding forth (Greek, _epéchō'_):** This verb, from *epí* (upon) and *échō* (to have, hold), carries a dual meaning: to hold fast to something and to hold it out or offer it. In this context, it primarily signifies "holding out," "presenting," or "offering" the word of life to others, much like one would hold out a lamp to illuminate darkness. It also subtly implies holding *onto* it oneself, demonstrating its truth through one's life.
* **Word (Greek, _lógos'_):** While *lógos* broadly means "something said," "discourse," or "reasoning," in theological contexts, especially when paired with "life," it refers to the divine message, the gospel, or even the person of Christ as the ultimate revelation of God. Here, it is the content of the message that brings life.
* **Life (Greek, _zōḗ'_):** This term denotes spiritual and eternal life, distinct from mere biological existence (*bios*). It refers to the divine life that God imparts through the gospel, a quality of life characterized by fellowship with God, righteousness, and eternal duration, contrasting with the spiritual death of the "crooked and twisted generation."
* **In vain (Greek, _kenós'_):** Meaning "empty" or "useless," this word emphasizes Paul's concern that his efforts and the Philippians' response would not be without ultimate purpose or fruit. It speaks to the effectiveness and lasting impact of their shared ministry and faith.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Holding forth the word of life;":** This is an imperative for the Philippian believers, urging them to actively present, proclaim, and embody the gospel message. The "word of life" is the good news of salvation through Christ, which imparts spiritual and eternal life to those who believe. Their lives are to be a living demonstration of this life-giving truth.
* **"that I may rejoice in the day of Christ,":** Paul states the purpose and desired outcome of their faithful witness. Their steadfastness and fruitfulness in holding forth the word of life will be a source of profound joy and "boasting" (in a positive sense) for him on the "day of Christ." This refers to the eschatological day of the Lord's return, judgment, and the rewarding of believers.
* **"that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.":** This clause further clarifies Paul's anticipation of joy. He uses athletic metaphors, comparing his apostolic ministry to a race ("run") and hard work ("laboured"). His desire is that his immense efforts, suffering, and dedication in preaching the gospel and nurturing the Philippian church would prove to be purposeful and effective, not empty or without lasting spiritual fruit when Christ returns.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices to convey his message. The phrase "Holding forth the word of life" functions as a powerful **Metaphor**, portraying believers as those who actively present a life-giving message, much like holding out a torch or a cup of water. This connects directly to the preceding verse's imagery of "shining as lights in the world," creating a cohesive visual of illumination and provision. The use of **Parallelism** is evident in the concluding phrase, "that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain," where two similar actions ("run," "laboured") are paired with the same outcome ("in vain") to emphasize the comprehensive nature of his concern and effort. This also hints at **Athletic Imagery**, a common motif in Paul's letters, comparing the Christian life and ministry to a demanding race or strenuous labor, underscoring the need for perseverance and dedication.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philippians 2:16 profoundly connects the believer's present conduct to future eschatological hope and the validation of apostolic ministry. It highlights the indispensable role of the church in continuing Christ's mission of light and life in a fallen world. The "word of life" is not merely information but a transformative power that brings spiritual regeneration and eternal existence, echoing the very essence of God's redemptive plan. Paul's concern for his labor not being "in vain" underscores the biblical principle that faithful service in the Lord is never without purpose or reward, and that the spiritual fruit borne in the lives of converts is the ultimate vindication of gospel proclamation. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that our daily walk and witness have eternal significance, contributing to the glory of God and the joy of those who have invested in our spiritual journey.

* [Matthew 5:16](/matthew/5-16 "Matthew 5:16 - Let Your Light Shine Before Others")
* [1 Thessalonians 2:19-20](/1_thessalonians/2-19-20 "1 Thessalonians 2:19-20 - Paul's Hope and Joy at Christ's Coming")
* [1 Corinthians 9:24-27](/1_corinthians/9-24-27 "1 Corinthians 9:24-27 - Running the Race to Win")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philippians 2:16 calls us to a dynamic and intentional faith. It challenges us to consider not only what we believe but how we embody and communicate that belief to a world desperately in need of life. "Holding forth the word of life" means living in such a way that the gospel is evident in our character, our choices, and our conversations. Are we truly shining as lights, or are we blending into the darkness? This verse also offers profound encouragement, reminding us that our efforts in the Lord, no matter how small they may seem, are never in vain. Every act of faithfulness, every word of truth shared, every prayer offered, contributes to an eternal purpose that will be fully revealed and rewarded on the "day of Christ." This should motivate us to persevere, knowing that our "run" and "labor" for the gospel have eternal significance and bring joy to both our spiritual mentors and, ultimately, to Christ Himself.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what practical ways can I "hold forth the word of life" in my daily interactions and through my lifestyle?**
* **How does the hope of the "day of Christ" motivate my perseverance in faith and service today?**
* **Am I living in a way that would bring joy and validate the efforts of those who have invested in my spiritual growth?**
* **What specific "labor" or "run" am I engaged in for the gospel, and how can I ensure it is not "in vain"?**

### FAQ
**What does "holding forth the word of life" mean for believers today?**

Answer: For believers today, "holding forth the word of life" means actively presenting and embodying the gospel message in both word and deed. It involves living a life that reflects the transformative power of Christ, making the truth of God's Word visible and attractive to others, as described in [Philippians 2:15](/philippians/2-15 "Philippians 2:15 - Shining as Lights"). This includes verbal proclamation of the good news, but also demonstrating its reality through our character, integrity, love, and hope in a world that often lacks these qualities. Our consistent walk and verbal witness are vital for the advancement of the gospel and for showing others the path to true, eternal life found in Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philippians 2:16 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who is Himself the very "Word of Life." As the **Logos** of God ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God")), Jesus is not merely the bearer of life but the source and embodiment of it ([John 1:4](/john/1-4 "John 1:4 - In Him Was Life")). He perfectly "held forth" this word of life through His incarnation, ministry, and sacrificial death, illuminating the darkness of the world as the true "light of the world" ([John 8:12](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World")). Paul's desire that his "run" and "labor" not be "in vain" ultimately points to Christ's own perfect and effective work; His suffering and death were assuredly not in vain, but achieved the complete redemption of humanity ([Isaiah 53:11](/isaiah/53-11 "Isaiah 53:11 - He Shall See the Result of His Suffering")). The "day of Christ" is the day of His glorious return, when His work will be fully revealed and celebrated, and all who have faithfully held forth His word will share in His triumph and joy, having been made blameless and harmless by His perfect sacrifice ([1 Corinthians 1:8](/1_corinthians/1-8 "1 Corinthians 1:8 - Blameless in the Day of the Lord Jesus Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 9:26

I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:

Galatians 2:2

And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.

1 John 1:1

¶ That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;

2 Corinthians 1:14

As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also [are] ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.

John 6:68

Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.

Luke 12:8

Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:

1 Thessalonians 3:5

For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.