But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

PHILIPPIANS 3:7KJV
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Philippians 3:7 (KJV)

What does Philippians 3:7 mean?

Philippians 3:7 describes how Paul, the writer, considers everything he once thought was valuable or advantageous in his life to be worthless compared to knowing Christ. Paul is saying that all his past achievements or status no longer matter to him because of his relationship with Jesus.

Paul is writing this letter to the Christians in Philippi, sharing his personal story. He had many reasons to boast about his background and accomplishments, but he now sees those things as "loss" when compared to what he has gained in Christ. This verse marks a turning point in Paul's values and priorities, showing a deep shift in what he considers truly important.

The Greek behind Philippians 3:7

  • "Gain" (κέρδη, kerdē): This word refers to profits or advantages, often used in business or accounting. Paul uses it to describe things he once saw as beneficial in his life.
  • "Counted" (ἡγήμαι, hēgēmai): This Greek word means to consider, regard, or evaluate. Paul is not just feeling differently but has made a deliberate decision to view his old gains as losses.
  • "Loss" (ζημία, zēmia): This term means damage or disadvantage. Paul is saying that what he once valued is not just neutral but actually a loss compared to Christ.

Why Philippians 3:7 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Paul’s change in values is intentional and thoughtful, not just emotional or impulsive.
  • Philippians 3:7 helps readers understand the depth of Paul’s commitment to Christ—he is willing to give up everything he once prized.
  • The verse sets up the following passage, where Paul explains more about what it means to know Christ and why that surpasses all other achievements or status.

Where else these words appear

“gain” Greek G2771 · used in 3 verses

  • Philippians 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
  • Titus 1:11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.

“loss” Greek G2209 · used in 4 verses

  • Acts 27:10 And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.
  • Acts 27:21 But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.
  • Philippians 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

“counted” Greek G2233 · used in 27 verses

  • Matthew 2:6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
  • Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
  • Hebrews 11:26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.

“things” Greek G3748 · used in 148 verses

  • Matthew 2:6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
  • John 8:53 Art thou greater than our father Abraham, which is dead? and the prophets are dead: whom makest thou thyself?
  • Galatians 5:10 I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.