### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Philippḗsios**, represented by `{{G5374}}`, is a term for a **Philippian**, a native of Philippi. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This word directly identifies the people from the city of Philippi, connecting them to a specific geographical and communal identity within the New Testament narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5374}}` identifies the recipients and subjects of the Apostle Paul's commendation and instruction. Paul directly addresses the believers as **Philippians** when he recalls their unique financial support, noting that at the beginning of his ministry in the region, no other church partnered with him in "giving and receiving" except for them [[Philippians 4:15]]. The word also appears in the subscription of the letter, clarifying that the epistle was written "To the **Philippians**" [[Philippians 4:23]], cementing their identity as the intended audience of this important apostolic text.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which the Philippians are mentioned:
* `{{G2098}}` **euangélion** (a good message, i.e. the gospel): The generosity of the Philippians is framed as taking place "in the beginning of the **gospel**" [[Philippians 4:15]].
* `{{G3109}}` **Makedonía** (Macedonia, a region of Greece): This specifies the region where the Philippian's support for Paul began, as he mentions the event occurred when he "departed from **Macedonia**" [[Philippians 4:15]].
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (a calling out, i.e. ... church): Paul highlights that no **church** supported him in this way except for the one at Philippi [[Philippians 4:15]].
* `{{G2841}}` **koinōnéō** (to share with others ... communicate): This word describes the action of the Philippians, stating that their church was the only one that **communicated with** him regarding financial partnership [[Philippians 4:15]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G5374}}` is tied directly to the actions of the people it describes.
* **Model of Generosity:** The identity of the **Philippians** is immortalized in scripture as a model of sacrificial giving. They are singled out for their willingness to partner with Paul's ministry financially when others did not [[Philippians 4:15]].
* **Partnership in Ministry:** The term is used to highlight a practical partnership. The **Philippians** didn't just receive the gospel; they actively "communicated with" Paul, sharing in the work through their support.
* **Apostolic Relationship:** Being identified as **Philippians** marks this community as having a special and commended relationship with the Apostle Paul, receiving a letter filled with affection, encouragement, and apostolic teaching.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5374}}` is more than a simple geographical identifier. It designates a specific community of believers whose identity in the biblical record is defined by their notable generosity and their active partnership in the gospel. The use of the term **Philippians** serves as a permanent testimony to a church that uniquely supported the apostolic mission from its earliest days in their region.
TRV