And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.

PHILIPPIANS 4:3KJV
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Philippians 4:3 (KJV)

What does Philippians 4:3 mean?

Philippians 4:3 is Paul’s request to a trusted coworker, asking this person to help certain women who worked alongside him in spreading the message of Jesus, along with Clement and other fellow workers, all of whom Paul says are recognized by God. Paul emphasizes the value and partnership of these individuals in his ministry.

Paul is writing to the church in Philippi, addressing someone he calls a “true yokefellow”—likely a respected leader or close companion in the church. The verse highlights the teamwork involved in sharing the gospel, mentioning women who played a significant role, as well as others like Clement. Paul’s mention of their names being “in the book of life” is his way of affirming their genuine faith and lasting importance in God’s eyes.

The Greek behind Philippians 4:3

  • “Yokefellow” (συζυγέ, syzyge): This word literally means “one who is yoked together,” like two animals pulling a plow. Paul uses it to address someone who shares a close partnership with him in ministry, showing the deep cooperation expected.
  • “Laboured with” (συνηθλίασαν, synēthliasan): This Greek word means “to strive together” or “to work hard alongside.” Paul is stressing that these women were not just helpers but active, dedicated partners in his work.
  • “Book of life” (βίβλῳ ζωῆς, biblo zōēs): This phrase refers to a symbolic record of those who belong to God. Paul uses it to assure the church that these coworkers are truly recognized by God, not just by people.

Why Philippians 4:3 matters

  • This verse shows that women played a real and active role in the early Christian movement, working alongside Paul and others in spreading the gospel.
  • Paul’s use of “true yokefellow” and “fellowlabourers” highlights the importance of teamwork and mutual support in the church, not just individual effort.
  • By mentioning the “book of life,” Paul connects practical help and encouragement with eternal significance, reminding the church that their service is seen and valued by God.

Where else these words appear

“laboured” Greek G4866 · used in 2 verses

  • Philippians 1:27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

“true” Greek G1103 · used in 4 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 8:8 I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.
  • 1 Timothy 1:2 Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.
  • Titus 1:4 To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.

“book” Greek G976 · used in 12 verses

  • Matthew 1:1 The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.
  • Luke 20:42 And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,
  • Revelation 3:5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.

“fellowlabourers” Greek G4904 · used in 13 verses

  • Romans 16:3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus:
  • 2 Corinthians 1:24 Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.
  • 1 Thessalonians 3:2 And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith: