Philippians 4:17

KJV

Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.

KJV (with Strong's)

Not {G3756} because {G3754} I desire {G1934} a gift {G1390}: but {G235} I desire {G1934} fruit {G2590} that may abound {G4121} to {G1519} your {G5216} account {G3056}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I am not seeking the gift; rather, I am looking for what will increase the credit balance of your account.

Berean Standard Bible

Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account.

American Standard Version

Not that I seek for the gift; but I seek for the fruit that increaseth to your account.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Philippians 4:17, the Apostle Paul clarifies his motivation for appreciating the financial support from the Philippian church. He asserts that his gratitude is not driven by a personal desire for material gifts, but rather by a profound longing for the spiritual dividends and divine blessings that accrue to the givers themselves. This verse underscores the principle that acts of generosity, particularly in support of gospel ministry, are not merely transactions but spiritual investments that yield eternal returns, enriching the "account" of the faithful giver in God's heavenly ledger.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Philippians 4:17 is situated within Paul's heartfelt expression of thanks to the Philippian believers for their consistent financial partnership in his ministry. Immediately preceding this verse, Paul makes a profound declaration of his spiritual contentment, having "learned in whatever state I am, to be content" ([Philippians 4:11](/philippians/4-11 "Paul's Contentment in All Circumstances")). He emphasizes his ability to thrive in both abundance and want, attributing this strength to Christ ([Philippians 4:12-13](/philippians/4-12-13 "Paul's Strength in Christ")). Following this, he directly acknowledges their unique and ongoing support, noting that they were the only church to partner with him financially from the beginning of his gospel journey ([Philippians 4:14-16](/philippians/4-14-16 "The Philippians' Generous Partnership")). Verse 17, therefore, serves as a crucial clarification, ensuring that his appreciation is understood not as a plea for more gifts, but as a desire for their spiritual flourishing through their generosity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The church in Philippi held a special place in Paul's heart, being the first church he founded in Europe during his second missionary journey ([Acts 16](/acts/16 "Paul's Ministry in Philippi")). As a Roman colony, Philippi was a significant urban center, and its citizens were proud of their Roman status. The Philippian church was notably generous, having supported Paul even when he was in Thessalonica ([Philippians 4:16](/philippians/4-16 "The Philippians' Support in Thessalonica")) and now during his imprisonment. In the Greco-Roman world, patronage was common, where benefactors provided support in exchange for social honor or influence. Paul, however, consistently sought to transcend such reciprocal expectations, maintaining his independence and emphasizing the spiritual nature of his ministry. His careful phrasing in [Philippians 4:17](/philippians/4-17 "Paul's Desire for Their Spiritual Fruit") distinguishes his motives from those who might exploit such relationships for personal gain, reinforcing his apostolic integrity.
* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several key themes pervasive throughout Philippians and Paul's broader theology. It highlights the theme of **selfless motivation** in ministry, demonstrating Paul's commitment to the gospel's advance and the spiritual well-being of believers above personal comfort or material gain. It powerfully articulates the concept of **spiritual investment** and **divine accounting**, where acts of giving are not merely expenses but deposits into a heavenly "account" that yield eternal "fruit" for the giver. This aligns with the broader theme of **partnership in the gospel**, as the Philippians' financial support made them co-laborers with Paul in spreading the good news, sharing in both the burdens and the blessings of ministry. Furthermore, it subtly reinforces the theme of **joy** that permeates the letter, suggesting that true joy for Paul comes not from receiving, but from seeing spiritual growth and reward in those he serves, echoing the idea of rejoicing in the Lord found throughout [Philippians 4](/philippians/4 "Paul's Exhortations and Thanksgiving").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **desire (Greek, _epizētéō'_):** From G1934, meaning "to search (inquire) for; intensively, to demand, to crave." Paul uses this word twice in the verse, first negatively ("Not because I desire a gift") and then positively ("but I desire fruit"). This intensive verb choice emphasizes the strength and sincerity of his longing. It's not a casual wish but a deeply held conviction and pursuit, revealing the true object of his earnest longing: not the gift itself, but the spiritual benefit to the givers.
* **fruit (Greek, _karpós'_):** From G2590, meaning "fruit (as plucked), literally or figuratively." In this context, _karpós_ is used figuratively to represent the beneficial outcome, spiritual return, or positive effect of the Philippians' generosity. It signifies the spiritual harvest or increase that results from their act of giving, contrasting with a mere material "gift." This "fruit" is not for Paul's consumption but for the Philippians' spiritual enrichment.
* **account (Greek, _lógos'_):** From G3056, meaning "something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic... by extension, a computation." Here, _lógos_ is used in the sense of a financial or moral "account" or "reckoning." It paints a vivid picture of a ledger or record where their generous acts are credited. This implies that God keeps a meticulous record of faithful stewardship and generosity, ensuring that such acts are not forgotten but result in spiritual credit or reward for the giver.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Not because I desire a gift:"** Paul immediately clarifies his motive. The word "gift" (Greek, _dóma_) refers to the material donation itself. By stating he does not "desire" (Greek, _epizētéō_) this, he preempts any misunderstanding that his gratitude is a veiled request for more money or that he is dependent on their material provisions. This assertion protects his apostolic integrity and distinguishes him from those who might preach for financial gain, reinforcing his selfless commitment to the gospel.
* **"but I desire fruit that may abound to your account."** This clause reveals Paul's true, profound motivation. The conjunction "but" (Greek, _allá_) introduces a strong contrast. Paul's earnest "desire" (Greek, _epizētéō_) is for "fruit" (Greek, _karpós_), which signifies spiritual blessing, increase, and divine reward. This "fruit" is not for him, but for the Philippians, that it may "abound" (Greek, _pleonázō_, meaning "to superabound" or "increase abundantly") to their "account" (Greek, _lógos_, referring to their spiritual credit or reckoning). This imagery suggests that their generosity is a spiritual investment that yields an overflowing return credited to their divine ledger, ensuring their spiritual prosperity and eternal reward.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several impactful literary devices. **Contrast** is central, highlighted by the "Not... but..." construction, which sharply distinguishes Paul's true, spiritual motivation from a superficial, material one. This rhetorical device effectively clarifies his heart and priorities. **Metaphor** is powerfully used with the terms "fruit" and "account." "Fruit" serves as a metaphor for spiritual blessings, rewards, and the beneficial outcomes of their generosity, moving beyond the literal sense of agricultural produce. "Account" is a metaphor for a divine ledger or heavenly record, vividly depicting God's meticulous recognition and crediting of their faithful giving. This **Imagery** of a spiritual bank account or financial ledger makes the abstract concept of divine reward tangible and understandable, emphasizing that their acts of generosity are not forgotten but are eternally valued and recorded.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philippians 4:17 profoundly articulates a key theological principle: genuine generosity, especially in support of God's work, is a spiritual investment that yields eternal returns for the giver. Paul's desire is not for personal gain, but for the spiritual prosperity of the Philippians, emphasizing that their giving is credited to their "account" in heaven. This concept elevates giving from a mere transaction to a profound act of worship and partnership with God, where the giver's spiritual well-being is intrinsically linked to their sacrificial acts. It underscores God's faithfulness to honor and multiply the sincere heart behind the gift, ensuring that no act of love and generosity in His name goes unrewarded.

* [Luke 6:38](/luke/6-38 "The Principle of Giving and Receiving")
* [Matthew 6:19-21](/matthew/6-19-21 "Laying Up Treasures in Heaven")
* [2 Corinthians 9:6-7](/2_corinthians/9-6-7 "Sowing Generously")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philippians 4:17 offers timeless wisdom for believers today, profoundly shaping our understanding of both giving and receiving within the Christian life. For those who give, it challenges us to examine our motives, encouraging a heart of pure generosity that seeks not recognition or earthly return, but understands that genuine giving is a spiritual act acknowledged and rewarded by God. It reminds us that our financial support for ministry, missions, or the needy is not merely an expenditure but a profound investment in our eternal "account," yielding spiritual "fruit" that abounds to our credit in heaven. For those who receive support, whether as ministers or ministries, this verse underscores the importance of valuing the spiritual growth and blessing of the givers above personal material gain. It calls us to steward resources with integrity, always pointing givers to the spiritual reward that awaits them, rather than focusing on our own needs. This verse ultimately teaches that God honors and multiplies the sincere heart behind the gift, whether given to advance the Gospel, care for the poor, or support His servants, encouraging us to give cheerfully, knowing that our heavenly "account" is being enriched.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What motivates my giving—is it a desire for earthly recognition, or for spiritual "fruit" to abound to my heavenly "account"?**
* **How does understanding God as a divine accountant, who meticulously records acts of generosity, impact my willingness to give sacrificially?**
* **In what ways can I ensure that my giving is truly an act of worship and spiritual investment, rather than just a financial transaction?**
* **If I am in a position to receive support, how can I emulate Paul's selfless focus on the spiritual well-being and eternal reward of the givers?**

### FAQ

**What does "fruit that may abound to your account" mean in a practical sense for believers today?**

Answer: In a practical sense, "fruit that may abound to your account" means that when believers give generously, especially to support gospel ministry or those in need, God credits these acts to their spiritual "account" in heaven. This is not a literal financial ledger, but a metaphor for divine recognition and spiritual reward. Practically, this means that such giving contributes to their eternal inheritance, spiritual growth, and future blessings from God. It signifies that their generosity is not forgotten but is seen by God as an investment that yields spiritual dividends, fostering a deeper relationship with Him and contributing to their eternal well-being. It encourages giving with an eternal perspective, knowing that God values and rewards faithful stewardship.

**Does this verse imply that giving is a way to "earn" salvation or favor with God?**

Answer: No, this verse does not imply that giving is a way to "earn" salvation or favor with God. Salvation is a free gift received by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Salvation by Grace Through Faith")). Instead, Philippians 4:17 speaks to the **rewards** of faithful stewardship and obedience for those who are already believers. It highlights God's principle of sowing and reaping in the spiritual realm, where acts of generosity are recognized and honored by Him, resulting in spiritual "fruit" or blessings for the giver. It's about the overflow of a heart transformed by grace, demonstrating love for God and others, and God's promise to bless such faithfulness, not as a means to earn salvation but as a consequence of it.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philippians 4:17, with its emphasis on selfless giving and the spiritual "fruit" that abounds to the giver's account, finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Christ Himself is the supreme example of one who gave not to receive, but to enrich others. As [2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "Christ's Self-Impoverishment for Our Riches") declares, "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich." His entire life, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross, was an act of giving that resulted in the ultimate "fruit" for humanity: redemption, reconciliation with God, and eternal life. Our giving, therefore, is not merely a transaction, but an imitation of Christ's own self-emptying love. When we give, whether financially or through service, we participate in His mission, and the "fruit" that abounds to our account is not just personal blessing, but the joy of seeing His kingdom advance and His glory magnified. Just as Jesus taught His disciples to "bear much fruit" for the Father's glory ([John 15:8](/john/15-8 "Bearing Much Fruit for God's Glory")), our acts of generosity become a tangible expression of our union with Him, contributing to the spiritual harvest that brings honor to God and eternal reward for those who faithfully invest in His purposes, echoing the commendation of the King to those who served "the least of these" ([Matthew 25:34-40](/matthew/25-34-40 "The King's Judgment and Service to the Least of These")).

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

Titus 3:14

And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

Hebrews 6:10

For God [is] not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

2 Corinthians 9:9

(As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.

2 Corinthians 9:13

Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for [your] liberal distribution unto them, and unto all [men];

John 15:8

Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

Luke 14:12

Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor [thy] rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.

Luke 14:14

And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.