Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.

PHILIPPIANS 4:15KJV
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Philippians 4:15 (KJV)

What does Philippians 4:15 mean?

Philippians 4:15 means that the Philippian believers were the only church to support Paul financially and materially when he first left Macedonia to spread the message of Jesus. Paul is reminding them that, at the start of his ministry beyond their region, no other church shared with him in giving and receiving except them.

Paul is writing this letter to the Christians in Philippi, thanking them for their unique generosity. The situation is that Paul had moved on from Macedonia to continue his missionary work, and during that time, only the Philippians sent him help. This verse highlights the special partnership between Paul and the Philippian church, showing their commitment when others did not step in.

The Greek behind Philippians 4:15

  • ἐκκλησία (ekklēsia, "church"): This word refers to a gathered community, not a building. Paul is saying that no other group of believers, not just individuals, supported him in this way.
  • κοινωνέω (koinōneō, "communicated with"): The Greek here means to share or partner, not just to talk. Paul is describing a real, practical partnership in giving and receiving, not just a message or letter.
  • δόσις (dosis, "giving") and λῆμψις (lēpsis, "receiving"): These words point to a two-way relationship. The Philippians did not just give; there was a sense of mutual support and sharing in the work.

Why Philippians 4:15 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that Paul was always supported by many churches; in fact, at first, only the Philippians helped him.
  • It emphasizes the unique generosity and faithfulness of the Philippian church, setting them apart from others.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by showing why Paul is so grateful to the Philippians and why he sees their support as a true partnership in his ministry.

Where else these words appear

“Philippians” Greek G5374 · used in 2 verses

  • Philippians 4:23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. To the Philippians written from Rome, by Epaphroditus.

“giving” Greek G1394 · used in 2 verses

  • James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

“with” Greek G2841 · used in 8 verses

  • Romans 12:13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
  • Galatians 6:6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.
  • Hebrews 2:14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;

“Macedonia” Greek G3109 · used in 22 verses

  • Acts 16:9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.
  • Acts 20:3 And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.
  • 2 Corinthians 11:9 And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.