Philippians 2:18

For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.

For {G1161} the same cause {G846} also {G2532} do {G5463} ye {G5210} joy {G5463}, and {G2532} rejoice with {G4796} me {G3427}.

Likewise, you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

and in the same manner do ye also joy, and rejoice with me.

Commentary on Philippians 2:18 (KJV)

Philippians 2:18: "For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me."

Context

This verse concludes a powerful section (Philippians 2:1-18) where the Apostle Paul passionately exhorts the Philippian believers to live in humility, unity, and selfless service, mirroring the example of Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5-8). Immediately preceding this verse, in Philippians 2:17, Paul expresses his willingness to be "offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith." He views his potential suffering or even martyrdom as a sacrificial libation poured out on the Philippians' spiritual offering to God. Therefore, this verse is a direct call for the Philippians to share in his joy, despite or perhaps because of his suffering for the sake of the Gospel.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Shared Joy in Suffering: The primary message is that joy is not absent in hardship but can be found in unity and purpose, especially when suffering for Christ. Paul, though possibly facing imprisonment or death, calls for shared rejoicing, transforming potential sorrow into spiritual triumph.
  • Fellowship in the Gospel: Paul's suffering is intrinsically linked to their faith and their service to God. Their joy is not just for themselves but is to be experienced *with* him, underscoring the deep spiritual bond and shared mission among believers. This highlights the concept of interconnectedness within the body of Christ.
  • Christian Unity and Empathy: The command to "rejoice with me" (συγχαίρετέ - sygchairete) implies a profound level of empathy and shared spiritual experience. It calls for the Philippians to enter into Paul's perspective, finding joy in the spiritual significance of his sacrifice rather than lamenting his physical predicament. This echoes the broader biblical principle of rejoicing with those who rejoice and weeping with those who weep.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses "joy" (χαίρετε - chairete, a general command to rejoice) and "rejoice" (συγχαίρετέ - sygchairete, specifically "to rejoice with"). The repetition of these terms emphasizes the earnestness of Paul's appeal. The prefix "συν-" (syn-) in sygchairete means "with" or "together," underscoring the communal and empathetic nature of the joy Paul desires them to share. It's not a detached happiness, but a deeply connected, shared spiritual elation.

Practical Application

This verse offers profound insights for believers today:

  • Embrace Shared Experience: We are called to share not only in the joys of our fellow believers but also to find spiritual joy in their sacrifices and even their sufferings for the sake of the Gospel. This fosters stronger community and support.
  • Joy in Purpose, Not Circumstance: Paul's example teaches us that joy is not dependent on comfortable circumstances. True Christian joy can be found in serving God's purposes, even when it involves personal cost or hardship. It's a joy rooted in Christ and the eternal hope, often expressed through rejoicing in the Lord always.
  • Unity in the Body: The call to "rejoice with me" encourages a deep sense of unity and empathy within the church. When one part of the body suffers or sacrifices for the Lord, the others should not be detached but should find a way to share in the spiritual significance of that act, turning potential sorrow into shared spiritual triumph.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • James 1:2

    ¶ My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

  • James 1:4

    But let patience have [her] perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

  • Philippians 4:4

    Rejoice in the Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice.

  • Philippians 3:1

    ¶ Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed [is] not grievous, but for you [it is] safe.

  • Ephesians 3:13

    Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.
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