For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;

PHILIPPIANS 1:5KJV
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Philippians 1:5 (KJV)

What does Philippians 1:5 mean?

Philippians 1:5 expresses Paul’s thankfulness for the Philippians’ partnership and shared commitment in spreading the message of Jesus, which began when they first heard the gospel and has continued up to the present. Paul is grateful for their ongoing support and involvement in the work of sharing the good news.

Paul is writing this letter to the believers in Philippi while he is in prison. He remembers how, from the very beginning of their relationship, the Philippians have actively participated—through friendship, financial support, and encouragement—in the mission of proclaiming the gospel. This verse highlights the close, ongoing bond between Paul and the Philippian church, rooted in their shared purpose.

The Greek behind Philippians 1:5

  • "fellowship" (κοινωνία, koinōnia): This word means more than just friendship; it carries the sense of active partnership or sharing in something important together. Here, it points to the Philippians’ real involvement—practically and spiritually—in Paul’s mission.
  • "gospel" (εὐαγγέλιον, euangelion): This word refers to the good news about Jesus. The verse centers on their partnership specifically in spreading this message, not just general kindness or support.
  • "from the first day until now" (ἀπὸ τῆς πρώτης ἡμέρας ἄχρι τοῦ νῦν, apo tēs prōtēs hēmeras achri tou nyn): This phrase emphasizes the consistency and faithfulness of the Philippians’ partnership, showing it was not a one-time act but a steady commitment.

Why Philippians 1:5 matters

  • The verse clarifies that Paul’s gratitude is not just for personal friendship, but for a shared mission in spreading the gospel, highlighting the idea of Christian partnership as active and ongoing.
  • It shows that the Philippians’ support was consistent "from the first day," which sets them apart as especially faithful and reliable partners in Paul’s ministry.
  • This verse sets the tone for the rest of the letter, where Paul continues to encourage and thank the Philippians for their unique role in his life and work.

Where else these words appear

“fellowship” Greek G2842 · used in 18 verses

  • Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:4 Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.
  • Philippians 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

“until” Greek G891 · used in 49 verses

  • Matthew 24:38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,
  • Acts 22:22 And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live.
  • Galatians 4:2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.

“gospel” Greek G2098 · used in 74 verses

  • Matthew 4:23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.
  • 1 Corinthians 4:15 For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.
  • Ephesians 6:19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

“first” Greek G4413 · used in 98 verses

  • Matthew 10:2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;
  • Luke 20:29 There were therefore seven brethren: and the first took a wife, and died without children.
  • 1 Timothy 6:21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen. The first to Timothy was written from Laodicea, which is the chiefest city of Phrygia Pacatiana.