Philippians 4:3

KJV

And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and [with] other my fellowlabourers, whose names [are] in the book of life.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} I intreat {G2065} thee {G4571} also {G2532}, true {G1103} yokefellow {G4805}, help {G4815} those women {G846} which {G3748} laboured {G4866} with me {G3427} in {G1722} the gospel {G2098}, with {G3326} Clement {G2815} also {G2532}, and {G2532} with other {G3062} my {G3450} fellowlabourers {G4904}, whose {G3739} names {G3686} are in {G1722} the book {G976} of life {G2222}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I also request you, loyal Syzygus, to help these women; for they have worked hard proclaiming the Good News with me, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow-workers whose names are in the Book of Life.

Berean Standard Bible

Yes, and I ask you, my true yokefellow, to help these women who have labored with me for the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life.

American Standard Version

Yea, I beseech thee also, true yokefellow, help these women, for they labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow-workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philippians 4:3 reveals Paul's earnest appeal to a trusted co-worker in Philippi, urging them to support several key individuals who had significantly contributed to the spread of the gospel alongside him. This verse not only highlights the collaborative nature of early Christian ministry, emphasizing the vital roles played by both men and women, but also offers a profound declaration of their eternal security, affirming that their names are eternally recorded in God's divine register.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Paul's concluding exhortations to the Philippian church in [Philippians 4](/philippians/4 "Philippians 4 - Paul's Exhortations and Thanksgiving"). Immediately preceding it, Paul makes a direct and urgent plea in [Philippians 4:2](/philippians/4-2 "Philippians 4:2 - Paul's Plea for Unity") for Euodia and Syntyche, two prominent women in the church, to reconcile and "be of the same mind in the Lord." Philippians 4:3 then follows as a practical instruction to an unnamed "true yokefellow" to facilitate this reconciliation and generally support these and other co-laborers. This flow underscores Paul's overarching concern for unity, mutual support, and the effective advancement of the gospel within the Philippian community, setting the stage for his subsequent teachings on joy, peace, and contentment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul is writing this epistle from prison, likely in Rome, around A.D. 60-62. Philippi was a Roman colony, and its citizens were proud of their Roman heritage and citizenship, a theme Paul subtly leverages when discussing heavenly citizenship later in the letter ([Philippians 3:20](/philippians/3-20 "Philippians 3:20 - Our Citizenship in Heaven")). The early church in Philippi was diverse, notably including women who held significant roles, such as Lydia, a prominent businesswoman mentioned in [Acts 16:14-15](/acts/16-14-15 "Acts 16:14-15 - Lydia's Conversion and Hospitality"). The mention of "those women" and "Clement" alongside "other my fellowlabourers" reflects the reality of early Christian missions, which relied heavily on networks of dedicated individuals, often operating within household churches, for hospitality, financial support, and active evangelism.

* **Key Themes:** Philippians 4:3 contributes to several major themes present throughout the book. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Partnership in the Gospel**, emphasizing that Paul's ministry was never a solitary endeavor but a collaborative effort with numerous individuals, both named and unnamed. Secondly, it highlights the significant and active **Role of Women in Ministry**, directly affirming their contributions to the gospel work alongside Paul, challenging any notion that their involvement was peripheral or passive. Finally, the concluding phrase, "whose names are in the book of life," introduces or reinforces the theme of **Assurance of Salvation and Eternal Security**, providing profound comfort and motivation to these faithful workers by declaring their divine election and eternal standing with God, a concept also seen in [Revelation 20:12](/revelation/20-12 "Revelation 20:12 - The Book of Life at the Great White Throne Judgment").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **intreat (Greek, _erōtáō'_):** This word, meaning "to interrogate" or "to request," conveys Paul's earnestness and the personal nature of his appeal. It's not a command but a heartfelt plea, indicating the importance of the matter and the respect Paul held for the "yokefellow" he was addressing.
* **true yokefellow (Greek, _gnḗsios sýzygos'_):** The term _sýzygos_ literally means "yoked together," implying a close, intimate partnership in shared labor or purpose. Coupled with _gnḗsios_, meaning "genuine" or "sincere," it describes a trusted, authentic colleague or companion in ministry. While some scholars debate if Syzygus is a proper name, the descriptive meaning emphasizes a deep bond of trust and shared commitment, making Paul's appeal for help even more personal and weighty.
* **fellowlabourers (Greek, _synergós'_):** Derived from _sýn_ (with) and _érgon_ (work), this term denotes a "co-laborer" or "coadjutor." It underscores the collaborative nature of Paul's ministry, highlighting that the work of spreading the gospel was a shared enterprise, requiring concerted effort from many individuals united in purpose.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow":** Paul makes a direct, personal appeal to an unnamed individual, whom he regards as a genuine and trusted partner in ministry. This address sets a tone of intimacy and shared purpose, indicating that the request is directed to someone capable and willing to act on Paul's behalf.
* **"help those women which laboured with me in the gospel":** This is the specific directive of Paul's entreaty. The "women" (likely Euodia and Syntyche from the previous verse, along with others) are identified as those who actively "laboured" or "strove together" with Paul in the work of the gospel. This highlights their significant and active participation in evangelism and ministry support, not merely passive roles.
* **"with Clement also, and [with] other my fellowlabourers":** Paul broadens the scope of his request for support to include Clement, a specific individual, and an unspecified group of "other" co-workers. This emphasizes that the need for mutual support extended beyond the immediate conflict to the wider network of those dedicated to the gospel mission in Philippi.
* **"whose names [are] in the book of life":** This profound declaration serves as a powerful affirmation of the eternal standing and divine election of these individuals. The "book of life" is a heavenly register of those who belong to God, providing immense comfort, assurance, and motivation to persevere in their earthly labors, knowing their ultimate reward and security are guaranteed by God.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this concise verse. The direct address to an unnamed "true yokefellow" is an example of **Apostrophe**, lending a personal and urgent tone to his appeal. The phrase "true yokefellow" itself is a powerful **Metaphor**, comparing the shared burden and coordinated effort of ministry to two animals yoked together for work, symbolizing deep partnership and mutual commitment. The concluding phrase, "whose names are in the book of life," uses **Synecdoche**, where "names" represent the entire person and their eternal destiny, signifying their inclusion in God's eternal plan. Furthermore, the listing of specific individuals ("those women," "Clement") followed by a more general category ("other my fellowlabourers") demonstrates **Inclusion**, emphasizing the broad network of support and the collective nature of gospel work.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philippians 4:3 offers profound theological insights into the nature of Christian ministry and salvation. It underscores the biblical truth that gospel work is a collaborative endeavor, not the sole responsibility of a few prominent leaders. God calls diverse individuals, empowering them to contribute uniquely to His kingdom, valuing every faithful effort. The affirmation of women's active roles in Paul's ministry aligns with the New Testament's broader portrayal of women as vital participants in the early church's growth and mission. Most significantly, the verse culminates in the glorious doctrine of eternal security, reminding believers that their labor is not in vain because their ultimate identity and destiny are secured by God's sovereign grace, their names immutably written in the "book of life." This divine assurance provides deep comfort and serves as a powerful motivation for continued faithfulness and perseverance in service.

* [1 Corinthians 3:9](/1_corinthians/3-9 "1 Corinthians 3:9 - God's Fellow Workers")
* [Romans 16:1-4](/romans/16-1-4 "Romans 16:1-4 - Paul Commends Phoebe, Priscilla, and Aquila")
* [Revelation 21:27](/revelation/21-27 "Revelation 21:27 - Only Those in the Book of Life Enter New Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philippians 4:3 serves as a timeless reminder of the essential need for mutual support and recognition within the body of Christ. In our contemporary contexts, this verse challenges us to actively identify and "help" those who are laboring in the gospel, whether they are vocational ministers, missionaries, or faithful volunteers serving in various capacities. It calls us to be "true yokefellows" to one another, sharing burdens, offering encouragement, and fostering unity, especially when disagreements or challenges arise. Furthermore, Paul's explicit mention of women's contributions compels us to intentionally value and empower all members of the church, recognizing and celebrating the diverse gifts and ministries of every individual, regardless of gender or traditional roles. Finally, the profound assurance that our names are "in the book of life" offers immense comfort and motivation, reminding us that our labor for the Lord is never in vain and that our eternal security is guaranteed, spurring us on to faithful perseverance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Who are the "yokefellows" in your life or ministry that you are called to support, and how can you practically "help" them?**
* **How does your church or community intentionally recognize and affirm the contributions of all its members, particularly those whose "labor in the gospel" might be less visible?**
* **How does the knowledge that your name is "in the book of life" impact your motivation and perseverance in serving God?**

### FAQ

**Who is the "true yokefellow" Paul addresses in this verse?**
Answer: The identity of the "true yokefellow" (Greek: _sýzygos_) remains a subject of scholarly debate. While some ancient manuscripts and early church traditions suggest it might be a proper name, "Syzygus," the more common interpretation is that it's a descriptive term. It likely refers to a prominent and trusted leader within the Philippian church, someone capable of mediating disputes and providing practical assistance. Candidates often proposed include Epaphroditus, the messenger from Philippi to Paul ([Philippians 2:25](/philippians/2-25 "Philippians 2:25 - Paul Commends Epaphroditus")), or perhaps another unnamed elder or deacon known to Paul and the church. Regardless of the specific individual, the term emphasizes their genuine partnership and shared commitment to the gospel.

**What was the role of women in the early Christian church, as suggested by this verse?**
Answer: Philippians 4:3 provides clear evidence of the active and significant role women played in the early Christian church. Paul explicitly states that these women "laboured with me in the gospel," using a strong verb (_synathléō_) that implies striving or wrestling together, indicating intense, shared effort in missionary work. This aligns with other New Testament passages, such as [Romans 16:1-2](/romans/16-1-2 "Romans 16:1-2 - Paul Commends Phoebe, a Deaconess"), where Paul commends Phoebe as a deaconess and benefactor, and [Romans 16:3-4](/romans/16-3-4 "Romans 16:3-4 - Priscilla and Aquila, Fellow Workers"), where Priscilla is mentioned alongside her husband Aquila as a "fellow worker in Christ Jesus." These examples demonstrate that women were not merely passive recipients of the gospel but active participants in its spread, serving as evangelists, teachers, patrons, and co-laborers.

**What is the "book of life" and its significance?**
Answer: The "book of life" is a theological concept found throughout the Bible, referring to God's divine register or scroll containing the names of those who are eternally saved and belong to Him. In [Psalm 69:28](/psalm/69-28 "Psalm 69:28 - Blot Them Out of the Book of Life"), it is associated with the righteous, and in [Daniel 12:1](/daniel/12-1 "Daniel 12:1 - Those Written in the Book Will Be Delivered"), with those who will be delivered. In the New Testament, particularly in Revelation, it is the book whose names guarantee entrance into the New Jerusalem ([Revelation 21:27](/revelation/21-27 "Revelation 21:27 - Only Those in the Book of Life Enter New Jerusalem")) and exemption from the lake of fire ([Revelation 20:15](/revelation/20-15 "Revelation 20:15 - Anyone Not Found in the Book of Life Cast into the Lake of Fire")). For the Philippian co-laborers, the mention of their names in this book provided profound assurance of their salvation and eternal security, affirming that their earthly labors for the gospel had eternal significance and a guaranteed divine reward.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philippians 4:3, while seemingly a practical instruction, finds its deepest fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "gospel" for which these individuals "laboured" is the good news of Christ's redemptive work—His life, death, and resurrection—which alone secures salvation. Our ability to be "fellowlabourers" is entirely dependent on Christ, who first called us into His service and empowers us by His Spirit, as seen in the Great Commission where Jesus promises His presence as His disciples go and make more disciples ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")). The unity Paul seeks among his co-workers is a reflection of the unity Christ prayed for among His followers ([John 17:21](/john/17-21 "John 17:21 - Jesus Prays for Unity")). Most profoundly, the "book of life" is not a ledger of human merit but a divine register of those redeemed by the blood of the Lamb ([Revelation 13:8](/revelation/13-8 "Revelation 13:8 - Names Written in the Book of Life of the Lamb")). Our names are inscribed there not because of our labor, but because of Christ's finished work on the cross, which grants us eternal life and makes our service a joyful response to His sovereign grace and love ([Ephesians 2:8-10](/ephesians/2-8-10 "Ephesians 2:8-10 - Grace Through Faith for Good Works")). Thus, all ministry, all partnership, and all assurance flow from and point back to Christ, the author and perfecter of our faith.

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

Revelation 13:8

And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

Revelation 3:5

He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.

Luke 10:20

Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.

Philippians 1:27

¶ Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

Revelation 21:27

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither [whatsoever] worketh abomination, or [maketh] a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.

Acts 16:14

And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard [us]: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

Acts 16:18

And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.