Philippians 4:14

Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.

Notwithstanding {G4133} ye have well {G2573} done {G4160}, that ye did communicate with {G4790} my {G3450} affliction {G2347}.

Nevertheless, it was good of you to share in my trouble.

Nevertheless, you have done well to share in my affliction.

Howbeit ye did well that ye had fellowship with my affliction.

Philippians 4:14 is a verse of profound gratitude from the Apostle Paul to the believers in Philippi. Despite his earlier assertion of having learned to be content in every circumstance (Philippians 4:11), he warmly commends their practical love and support during his time of hardship.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's concluding remarks in his letter to the Philippians, specifically within a section (Philippians 4:10-20) where he expresses heartfelt thanks for their financial contribution. This support reached him while he was likely imprisoned, demonstrating their continued partnership in the gospel from the very beginning. Paul acknowledges their generosity not out of personal need, but as a testament to their genuine care and participation in his ministry, even when he was suffering.

Key Themes

  • Generosity and Partnership: The Philippians' act of giving was not merely a donation but a deep sharing in Paul's circumstances. It signifies a true partnership in the work of spreading the gospel.
  • Compassion and Empathy: Their willingness to "communicate with" Paul's affliction shows a profound empathy. They didn't just hear about his struggles; they actively sought to alleviate them, embodying the call to bear one another's burdens.
  • Mutual Support in Ministry: This verse highlights the biblical principle of mutual support within the body of Christ. Those who preach and teach the Word are to be supported by those who benefit from it, especially in times of need.
  • Paul's Sincere Gratitude: Despite his spiritual resilience, Paul was deeply touched by their practical love. His commendation is sincere, validating their efforts as "well done" in the sight of God. This expression of Paul's gratitude emphasizes the value of their Christian giving.

Linguistic Insights

The key phrase "communicate with" translates the Greek word synkoinōneō (συγκοινωνέω). This is more than just sending money; it means to be a "fellow partaker" or to "share together" in something. It implies a deep fellowship and solidarity. When the Philippians "communicated with" Paul's "affliction" (Greek: thlipsis, θλῖψις, meaning pressure, tribulation, or distress), they were not just giving aid; they were entering into his suffering with him, becoming partners in his hardship as well as his ministry.

Practical Application

Philippians 4:14 encourages believers today to actively participate in supporting those who serve God, particularly during times of difficulty or hardship. It challenges us to move beyond mere sympathy to practical, tangible acts of love and generosity. Whether it's through financial support, prayer, or other forms of practical assistance, sharing in the "afflictions" of fellow believers or missionaries strengthens the body of Christ and demonstrates the love of God in action. It reminds us that Christian giving is an act of fellowship and partnership in the work of the Kingdom.

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.

  • Hebrews 13:16

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

  • Philippians 1:7

    ¶ Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.

  • 1 Kings 8:18

    And the LORD said unto David my father, Whereas it was in thine heart to build an house unto my name, thou didst well that it was in thine heart.

  • Hebrews 10:34

    For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.

  • Galatians 6:6

    Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

  • Matthew 25:21

    His lord said unto him, Well done, [thou] good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

  • 1 Timothy 6:18

    That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;

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