And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;

PHILIPPIANS 1:25KJV
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Philippians 1:25 (KJV)

What does Philippians 1:25 mean?

Philippians 1:25 means that Paul is confident he will remain alive and stay with the Philippian believers, so he can help them grow in their faith and experience more joy in believing. Paul sees his continued presence as important for their spiritual progress and encouragement.

Paul is writing this letter from prison, unsure if he will be released or executed. Here, Paul expresses his conviction that he will survive and continue serving the Philippians. His focus is not on his own comfort, but on the benefit his guidance and support will bring to the faith and happiness of the church community.

The Greek behind Philippians 1:25

  • The word "furtherance" comes from προκοπή (prokopē), which means progress or advancement. Paul is not just talking about maintaining faith, but actively helping the Philippians move forward in their spiritual journey.
  • The word "joy" is χαρά (chara), which refers to a deep, abiding gladness. Paul connects faith with genuine joy, showing that belief is meant to bring real happiness, not just duty.
  • The phrase "abide and continue" uses μένω (menō, "abide") and παραμένω (paramenō, "continue with"). The pairing emphasizes not just staying, but being present alongside the Philippians for their benefit.

Why Philippians 1:25 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Paul’s desire to remain alive is not self-centered, but focused on serving others and their spiritual growth.
  • It highlights the connection between faith and joy, showing that Christian belief is meant to bring both progress and happiness.
  • Philippians 1:25 sets up the following verses, where Paul encourages the church to stand firm and work together, making his ongoing support even more significant.

Where else these words appear

“furtherance” Greek G4297 · used in 3 verses

  • Philippians 1:12 But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;
  • 1 Timothy 4:15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.

“confidence” Greek G3982 · used in 55 verses

  • Matthew 27:20 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.
  • Acts 21:14 And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.
  • Galatians 5:7 Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?

“joy” Greek G5479 · used in 57 verses

  • Matthew 2:10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
  • John 16:21 A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world.
  • Philippians 2:2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

“abide” Greek G3306 · used in 105 verses

  • Matthew 10:11 And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.
  • John 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
  • 2 Corinthians 3:14 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.