For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.

PHILIPPIANS 4:16KJV
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Philippians 4:16 (KJV)

What does Philippians 4:16 mean?

Philippians 4:16 describes how the believers in Philippi sent support to Paul more than once while he was in Thessalonica, helping to meet his needs. Paul is acknowledging their repeated generosity and practical care for him during his ministry.

Paul is writing this letter to the Christians in Philippi, thanking them for their ongoing help. He recalls that even when he was in Thessalonica—a different city where he was working to spread the message about Jesus—they sent him supplies or money more than once. This verse highlights the close relationship and real-world support between Paul and the Philippian church.

The Greek behind Philippians 4:16

  • Ἀναγκαία (anagkaía, "necessity"): This word refers to something needed or required, not just a want. Paul is saying the Philippians helped with his real, practical needs.
  • καὶ πάλιν (kai palin, "again"): The use of these words together emphasizes that the Philippians’ support was not a one-time event but happened repeatedly. This shows their ongoing commitment.

Why Philippians 4:16 matters

  • Philippians 4:16 clarifies that Paul’s gratitude is not just for a single act of kindness but for a pattern of consistent help, showing the depth of the Philippians’ partnership with him.
  • This verse highlights the practical side of early Christian relationships, where support meant meeting real needs, not just offering encouragement or prayer.
  • By mentioning Thessalonica specifically, Paul reminds the readers that their generosity extended beyond their own city, showing a broader vision for helping others involved in ministry.

Where else these words appear

“Thessalonica” Greek G2332 · used in 5 verses

  • Acts 17:1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:
  • Acts 17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
  • Acts 17:13 But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.

“again” Greek G1364 · used in 6 verses

  • Mark 14:30 And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this day, even in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice.
  • Mark 14:72 And the second time the cock crew. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And when he thought thereon, he wept.
  • 1 Thessalonians 2:18 Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.

“once” Greek G530 · used in 15 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 11:25 Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep;
  • Hebrews 9:26 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.
  • Hebrews 12:27 And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.

“necessity” Greek G5532 · used in 47 verses

  • Matthew 3:14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
  • Luke 19:34 And they said, The Lord hath need of him.
  • Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.