Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

PHILIPPIANS 4:8KJV
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Philippians 4:8 (KJV)

What does Philippians 4:8 mean?

Philippians 4:8 encourages believers to focus their thoughts on things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, virtuous, and praiseworthy. The verse lists these qualities as the kinds of things Christians should keep in mind and reflect on in daily life.

Paul, writing to the church in Philippi, is wrapping up his letter with practical advice for living as followers of Jesus. He addresses the community as "brethren," urging them to fill their minds with good and upright things, especially in a world where many other influences compete for attention. This verse serves as a guide for mental and spiritual focus, pointing readers toward what is wholesome and uplifting.

The Greek behind Philippians 4:8

  • "True" (ἀληθῆ, alēthē): This word means genuine or in accordance with reality. Paul is urging the Philippians to focus on what is real and trustworthy, not on rumors or falsehoods.
  • "Honest" (σεμνά, semna): Often translated as "honorable" or "noble," this word carries the sense of dignity and respect. It points to things that are worthy of reverence.
  • "Just" (δίκαια, dikaia): This word refers to what is right or fair, especially in a moral or ethical sense. Paul is highlighting the importance of justice and fairness in thought.
  • "Pure" (ἁγνά, hagná): This word means morally clean or innocent. The focus is on thoughts that are untainted by corruption or impurity.
  • "Lovely" (προσφιλῆ, prosphilē): This term is rare in the New Testament and means pleasing or admirable, things that inspire love or affection.
  • "Of good report" (εὔφημα, euphēma): This phrase refers to things that are well-spoken of or reputable, suggesting a focus on what is commendable or has a good reputation.
  • "Virtue" (ἀρετή, aretē): This word means moral excellence or goodness. Paul is encouraging the pursuit of the highest moral standards.
  • "Praise" (ἔπαινος, epainos): This refers to things that are worthy of approval or commendation, highlighting the value of positive recognition.

Why Philippians 4:8 matters

  • Philippians 4:8 clarifies that Christian living is not just about avoiding wrong but actively choosing to dwell on what is good and uplifting.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by showing that peace and joy in the Christian life are closely tied to what occupies the mind.
  • By listing specific qualities, Paul gives practical direction for thought life, which can help believers navigate challenges and maintain spiritual health.

Where else these words appear

“honest” Greek G4586 · used in 4 verses

  • 1 Timothy 3:8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;
  • 1 Timothy 3:11 Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.
  • Titus 2:2 That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.

“virtue” Greek G703 · used in 4 verses

  • 1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
  • 2 Peter 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:
  • 2 Peter 1:5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;

“pure” Greek G53 · used in 8 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 7:11 For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
  • 1 Timothy 5:22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure.
  • James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

“praise” Greek G1868 · used in 11 verses

  • Romans 2:29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:18 And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches;
  • Ephesians 1:14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.