Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.

PHILIPPIANS 1:7KJV
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Philippians 1:7 (KJV)

What does Philippians 1:7 mean?

Philippians 1:7 means that Paul believes it is right for him to feel close to the Philippian believers, because they have stood with him both when he was imprisoned and when he was defending and confirming the message about Jesus, sharing in the grace God has given him. Paul is expressing a deep personal bond and gratitude for their partnership in his ministry, especially during difficult times.

Paul is writing this letter from prison to the Christians in Philippi, a city in Macedonia. He wants them to know that he carries them in his heart, not just because of personal affection, but because they have actively supported him in his work for the gospel, even when it was risky or costly. This verse highlights the strong relationship and mutual support between Paul and the Philippian church.

The Greek behind Philippians 1:7

  • "Meet" (δίκαιον, dikaios): This word is often understood as "right" or "just." Paul is not just saying it feels good to think this way, but that it is fair and proper, showing a sense of moral obligation or correctness in his feelings toward them.
  • "Partakers" (συγκοινωνός, synkoinōnos): This word means "sharers" or "partners." Paul is emphasizing that the Philippians are not just supporters from a distance, but are truly sharing in his experiences and the grace God gives for ministry, including suffering.
  • "Defence" (ἀπολογία, apologia) and "confirmation" (βεβαίωσις, bebaiōsis): These words refer to Paul’s work in explaining and proving the truth of the gospel. The Philippians supported him both when he was defending the faith against criticism and when he was strengthening believers in their faith.

Why Philippians 1:7 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Paul’s affection for the Philippians is not just personal, but is rooted in their shared commitment to the gospel and their active support, even in hard times.
  • It shows that partnership in Christian ministry involves both sharing in suffering and in the work of spreading the message, not just enjoying good times together.
  • Philippians 1:7 connects to the wider theme of the letter, which is gratitude and encouragement in the face of hardship, highlighting the importance of unity and mutual support among believers.

Where else these words appear

“confirmation” Greek G951 · used in 2 verses

  • Hebrews 6:16 For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife.

“partakers” Greek G4791 · used in 4 verses

  • Romans 11:17 And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;
  • 1 Corinthians 9:23 And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.
  • Revelation 1:9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

“defence” Greek G627 · used in 8 verses

  • Acts 22:1 Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto you.
  • 1 Corinthians 9:3 Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,
  • Philippians 1:17 But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.

“bonds” Greek G1199 · used in 20 verses

  • Mark 7:35 And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain.
  • Acts 23:29 Whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds.
  • Colossians 4:18 The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen. Written from Rome to Colossians by Tychicus and Onesimus.