But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel.

PHILIPPIANS 2:22KJV
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Philippians 2:22 (KJV)

What does Philippians 2:22 mean?

Philippians 2:22 describes how Timothy has proven his character and faithfulness by working alongside Paul in spreading the gospel, serving with the same loyalty and dedication as a son serving with his father. Paul points out that the Philippians themselves know Timothy’s trustworthy record.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Philippi, explaining why he trusts Timothy and why they should too. Paul uses the close relationship between a father and son to show how Timothy has worked with him, not just as a helper but as a true partner in sharing the message about Jesus. This verse highlights Timothy’s tested reliability and the deep bond between him and Paul.

The Greek behind Philippians 2:22

  • The word "proof" (δοκιμή, dokimē) means tested character or proven worth. Paul is saying Timothy’s actions have been examined and found genuine, not just assumed.
  • The phrase "as a son with the father" uses υἱός (huios, "son") and πατήρ (patēr, "father") to highlight a relationship built on trust, closeness, and shared purpose, not just authority.
  • The word "served" (δουλεύω, douleuō) means to serve as a bondservant or with deep commitment. Paul is emphasizing Timothy’s humble, loyal service, not just casual help.

Why Philippians 2:22 matters

  • This verse clears up any doubt about Timothy’s reliability by pointing to his proven track record, not just Paul’s personal opinion.
  • Paul’s comparison to a father-son relationship shows the depth of teamwork and trust in Christian ministry, not just formal roles.
  • In the wider passage, this verse helps explain why Paul is sending Timothy and why the Philippians can welcome him with confidence.

Where else these words appear

“proof” Greek G1382 · used in 6 verses

  • Romans 5:4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
  • 2 Corinthians 2:9 For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.
  • 2 Corinthians 9:13 Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men;

“served” Greek G1398 · used in 23 verses

  • Matthew 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
  • Romans 7:6 But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter.
  • Galatians 4:9 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?

“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,

“me” Greek G1698 · used in 87 verses

  • Matthew 10:32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
  • John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
  • 2 Corinthians 9:4 Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we(that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting.