That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.

PHILIPPIANS 1:26KJV
Know the Bible

Philippians 1:26 (KJV)

What does Philippians 1:26 mean?

Philippians 1:26 means that Paul hopes his return to visit the Philippian believers will give them even more reason to rejoice in Christ because of what God has done through Paul. Paul sees his presence among them as something that will increase their joy and confidence in Jesus.

Paul is writing this letter from prison to the Christians in Philippi, explaining his situation and hopes. He expresses that if he is able to visit them again, it will be a cause for greater celebration and encouragement for their faith, since they will see firsthand how God has answered their prayers for him.

The Greek behind Philippians 1:26

  • "Rejoicing" (καύχημα, kauchēma) often means "boasting" or "pride," but here it is understood as joyful confidence or reason to celebrate, especially in what Christ has done.
  • "Abundant" (περισσεύω, perisseuō) carries the sense of overflowing or increasing, showing that Paul expects their joy to grow even more.
  • "Coming" (παρουσία, parousia) means "presence" or "arrival," and in this context, it refers simply to Paul’s hoped-for visit, not a special or technical event.

Why Philippians 1:26 matters

  • This verse highlights how Paul’s relationship with the Philippians is centered on Jesus Christ, not just personal affection or loyalty.
  • It clarifies that Paul’s desire to visit is not for his own sake, but so that the believers’ faith and joy in Christ will be strengthened.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by showing Paul’s selfless attitude—he wants his life and actions to point others to rejoice more in Christ, not in himself.

Where else these words appear

“rejoicing” Greek G2745 · used in 11 verses

  • Romans 4:2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God.
  • 1 Corinthians 9:16 For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!
  • 2 Corinthians 9:3 Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready:

“coming” Greek G3952 · used in 24 verses

  • Matthew 24:3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?
  • 2 Corinthians 7:7 And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.
  • 2 Thessalonians 2:8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:

“abundant” Greek G4052 · used in 35 verses

  • Matthew 5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
  • John 6:13 Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:2 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

“my” Greek G1699 · used in 68 verses

  • Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
  • John 8:56 Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.
  • 1 Corinthians 5:4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,