Philippians 4:16

For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.

For {G3754} even {G2532} in {G1722} Thessalonica {G2332} ye sent {G3992} once {G2532}{G530} and {G2532} again {G1364} unto {G1519} my {G3427} necessity {G5532}.

Indeed, in Thessalonica when I needed it, you sent me aid twice.

For even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs again and again.

for even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my need.

Commentary

Philippians 4:16 highlights the deep and consistent generosity of the Philippian church towards the Apostle Paul, specifically recalling their support even during his challenging ministry in Thessalonica. This verse underscores the vital partnership between those who minister the gospel and those who support them.

Context

This verse is found within Paul's letter of thanksgiving to the Philippians, written while he was imprisoned (Philippians 1:7). He expresses profound gratitude for their consistent financial and material support, which set them apart from other churches he had founded (Philippians 4:15). The reference to "Thessalonica" points to an early period in Paul's second missionary journey, shortly after he had established the church in Philippi. During his time in Thessalonica, Paul faced significant opposition and persecution, as detailed in Acts 17:1-9, making the Philippians' aid particularly timely and crucial.

Key Themes

  • Generosity and Partnership in the Gospel: The Philippians understood their role as active partners in Paul's missionary work (Philippians 1:5), not just by believing, but by extending practical and financial support.
  • Consistent and Repeated Support: The phrase "once and again" emphasizes that their giving was not a one-time gesture but a sustained, reliable commitment to meeting Paul's needs. This indicates their ongoing care and dedication.
  • Meeting Paul's Necessity: Their contributions directly addressed Paul's personal and ministerial "necessity" (Greek: chreia), which likely included provisions for food, lodging, and other expenses associated with his arduous apostolic work.
  • Paul's Profound Gratitude: While Paul often worked to support himself, he deeply valued and acknowledged the sacrificial giving of the Philippians, seeing it as a tangible expression of their love and participation in the gospel.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "once and again" translates the Greek hapax kai dis, which literally means "once and twice." This idiom is used to convey the idea of "repeatedly," "more than once," or "on several occasions." It highlights the ongoing and persistent nature of the Philippians' support, rather than a singular act. The word "necessity" comes from the Greek chreia, which broadly refers to a need, want, or requirement. In this context, it implies Paul's essential provisions for living and continuing his ministry, which the Philippians diligently supplied.

Practical Application

Philippians 4:16 offers a timeless model for Christian giving and support within the body of Christ. It reminds believers of the importance of supporting those who dedicate their lives to spreading the gospel, whether they are missionaries on foreign fields, local pastors, or Christian workers. This verse encourages a spirit of consistent, cheerful giving (2 Corinthians 9:7) to meet the practical needs of those engaged in ministry. It illustrates that supporting God's work is a vital aspect of Christian partnership, benefiting both the giver and the receiver, and ultimately advancing the Kingdom of God (Galatians 6:6).

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Cross-References

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:9 (7 votes)

    For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.

  • Acts 17:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:18 (2 votes)

    Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.