AUV(i)
1 [This letter is from] Paul and Timothy, slaves of Christ Jesus, [and is being sent] to all the saints [i.e., God’s holy people] who are at Philippi [Note: This is a town in present-day northeastern Greece, and the first place in Europe where Paul established Christianity], along with the overseers [Note: These men were also called elders, shepherds or pastors] and deacons.
2 May unearned favor and peace be upon you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
3 I thank my God [in prayer] every time I think of you.
4 In my every request for all of you, I make it with joy
5 for your sharing [with me] in [carrying on] the work of the Gospel from the first day [I left there] until now. [See 4:14-16].
6 I am confident of this very thing, that God, who began something good among you, will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ’s [return].
7 It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because I have you in my heart [i.e., you are dear to me], for you people are sharing in God’s unearned favor with me [Note: Paul here refers to his ministry], both in my imprisonment and in my defense and confirmation of the Gospel [i.e., in my efforts to give proof of the Gospel’s truth].
8 For God is my witness that I long to see you with the [same] affection that Christ Jesus has [for you].
9 And I pray that your love may grow stronger and stronger, [along] with how much you know, and [that you may grow] in your ability to comprehend things.
10 Then you will be able to approve of [only] what is best and be sincere and without just blame on the day of Christ’s [return],
11 having been full of qualities of righteousness, which come from Jesus Christ and produce honor and praise to God.
12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that the things that happened to me have resulted in the advancement [of the influence] of the Gospel rather [than hindering it],
13 so that my imprisonment for Christ became known throughout the entire headquarters of the governor [i.e., among all his personnel], and to everyone else.
14 And most of the brothers in the Lord’s [service], through my imprisonment, gained confidence to speak out God’s message with greater courage and without fear.
15 Some people, indeed, are proclaiming Christ out of envy and strife [i.e., out of rivalry], while others do it from goodwill.
16 Those who do it out of love [for me] know that I am prepared to defend the Gospel [i.e., before government authorities].
17 But the others preach Christ out of rivalry, not sincerely, hoping to stir up trouble for me while I am in prison.
18 So, what [should I think about the situation]? Just this: I am happy and will continue to be happy that, in every way, Christ is being preached, [regardless of] whether it is in pretense or with sincerity.
19 For I know that, through your requests [in prayer] for me and the help provided by the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ, this situation will result in my being rescued [i.e., released from imprisonment].
20 It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not have to be ashamed about anything, but that I will have the courage, [both] now and always, [to so live] that Christ will be exalted [i.e., honored] in my body, whether I live or die.
21 For life to me is Christ, and if I die, it would be gain.
22 But if [continuing] to live in my body means accomplishing more work [for Christ], then I do not know which to choose.
23 So, I am in a dilemma between the two choices. [On the one hand] I have the desire to depart [from this life] and be with Christ [in heaven], which would be far better.
24 Yet [on the other hand], to remain in my body is more necessary for your sakes.
25 So, being convinced of this, I know I will remain [in my body] and continue with all of you for your spiritual progress and joy in the faith,
26 so that, by my being with you again, you will be able to rejoice all the more in [our lives together with] Christ Jesus.
27 So, [whatever happens], live your daily lives in such a way as to be worthy of the Gospel of Christ, so that, whether I come and see you or remain absent from you, I will hear about you, that you are standing firm in one spirit [i.e., united in purpose, and] contending with one mind for the faith of the Gospel [i.e., for the body of Christian teaching].
28 [I also want to hear] that you are not being frightened by those who oppose you, which [opposition] is proof that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved, and this will [all] be done by God.
29 Because God has granted you [the privilege], on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake.
30 [So], you are now experiencing the same struggle you [once] saw me going through, and now are hearing that I still am.
2 1 Is there anything to be encouraged about by being in [fellowship with] Christ? Is there any comfort from His love? Is there any sharing with the Holy Spirit? [Have you received] any affection and compassion [from Christ]? 2 [Then] make me completely happy by being like-minded, having the same love [for one another], being united in spirit and having the same purpose. 3 Do not do anything from rivalry or from empty conceit, but in humility, consider others better than yourselves. 4 Each of you should not look out for your own interests [only], but also for those of other people. 5 You should think about things the way Christ Jesus did. 6 He existed in the form of God [i.e., He shared God’s very nature], but did not consider [remaining] equal with God something [to continue] to hold onto. 7 Instead, He gave up what He had and took on the form [i.e., the nature] of a slave, becoming like a man, [and even] His appearance was found to be like a man’s. 8 He humbled Himself [by] becoming obedient [to God] to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore, God also exalted Him to the highest position and gave Him the name [i.e., “Lord.” See verse 11], which is superior to every [other] name. 10 [This was] so that, in [honor of] the name of Jesus, everyone’s knee in heaven, on earth and under the earth [i.e., all rational creatures] should bow [i.e., before God], 11 and that everyone’s mouth should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 12 So then, my dear ones, just as you people were always obedient [to my teaching] when I was there with you, so now, in my absence [also], be [obedient] all the more. [Continue to] complete your own salvation [i.e., by living faithfully to the end. See Rom. 13:11] with fear and trembling [i.e., with a reverent and submissive spirit], 13 for it is God who is at work in you, both to motivate the desire and to carry out what pleases Him. 14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, 15 so that you will be without just blame and innocent [of wrongdoing], children of God without fault in the middle of a crooked and perverted generation of people. You must shine among them like stars lighting up the sky, 16 as you hold out [i.e., offer to people] the message of [never ending] life. Then I will have something to boast about on the day of Christ’s [return, See 1:6], that I had not run the race for nothing nor had worked for nothing. 17 But even if I am poured out like a drink offering [See Ex. 29:38-41] on the sacrifice and service produced by your faith, I am glad and will rejoice with all of you. [Note: Paul here likens the possible pouring out of his blood to the wine and oil of the Old Testament sacrifice, which is then likened to the Philippians’ faithful service to God]. 18 And you should be glad and share your joy with me also. 19 But I hope in [harmony with the wishes of] the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I could be encouraged when I learn of your situation [i.e., when Timothy returns with news from Philippi]. 20 For I do not have anyone else [i.e., as a fellow-worker] who thinks the same way I do, and who will genuinely care for your [spiritual and material] needs. 21 For everyone else is looking out for his own interests, not for those of Jesus Christ. 22 But you people know about his proven reliability, how he served with me in advancing [the work of] the Gospel just like a son working with his father. 23 So, I hope to send him [to you] as soon as I see how things will go with me. 24 But I am fully persuaded in [harmony with the wishes of] the Lord that I, myself, also will go to you soon. [Note: Paul here expresses the hope of being released from imprisonment, in spite of previous hints that he might be put to death. See 1:20; 2:17]. 25 But I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow-worker and fellow-soldier, and your messenger [to me] and minister to my needs. 26 For he longed to see all of you and was very distressed because you had heard that he was sick. 27 And indeed, he was [so] sick that he almost died, but God had pity on him, and not only on him but also on me, so that I would not have one sorrow on top of another. 28 So, I am all the more eager to send him to you people, so that when you see him again you will be glad, and that my sorrow will be lessened [i.e., in knowing that you are relieved to see that he is well again]. 29 So, you should welcome him in [the fellowship of] the Lord with great joy, and regard such people with honor, 30 because he almost died for the work of Christ, risking his life to provide me with what you were not able to.
3 1 Finally, my brothers, rejoice in [your relationship to] the Lord. It does not trouble me to write the same things to you again, because you will be safer if I do. [Note: These “same things” may refer to warnings against false teachers which Paul had either spoken to them or written about previously]. 2 Watch out for the “dogs!” [Note: “Dogs” were viewed with disgust by the ancient Jews (Deut. 23:18; II Kings 8:13; Rev. 22:15), so the term is used here derogatorily for Jewish Christians who were trying to impose on the church the requirements of the law of Moses]. Watch out for the evil workers! Watch out for those who mutilate the body meaninglessly! [Note: Paul here alludes, in a derogatory wordplay, to the Jewish practice of circumcision]. 3 For we [Christians] are the [true] circumcision [i.e., the real “Jews” in God’s eyes. See Rom. 2:28-29]. We worship by means of God’s Holy Spirit [i.e., are empowered and motivated by the Holy Spirit], and boast in [the person and work of] Christ Jesus, and [we] place no confidence in the flesh [i.e., in any outward ritual or status for salvation]. 4 However I, myself, have [reasons for such] confidence in the flesh. [But] if any other person has [reasons for placing] confidence in the flesh, I have more [reasons]. 5 [I was] circumcised eight days after I was born; [I am] from the nation of Israelites; from the tribe of Benjamin and of Hebrew ancestry [i.e., an outstanding Hebrew]. As far as the law of Moses is concerned, [I am] a Pharisee [i.e., a strict sect of the Jewish religion]. 6 As far as enthusiasm is concerned, I persecuted the church; as far as being righteous according to the law of Moses is concerned, I was without just blame. 7 However, those things which were [once regarded as] gain to me, I have [now] considered to be loss for [the sake of] Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything to be a loss compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus [as] my Lord, for whose sake I have suffered the loss of all things. [I now] consider [all of] them to be trash, in order to gain Christ 9 and to be found in [fellowship with] Him, not having a righteousness of my own, acquired by observing the law of Moses, but one acquired through believing in Christ. This righteousness, which comes from God, is based on faith. 10 I want to know Christ [as Savior] and to experience the power [produced] by His resurrection, and to share in His sufferings and become like Him in His death, 11 in order to, somehow, be raised out of the dead [i.e., to have never ending life]. 12 [It is] not that I have already arrived at the goal [of spiritual maturity], or have already been made perfectly [righteous], but I am pushing onward in order to take hold of what Christ Jesus took hold of me for [i.e., to receive all that Christ intended for me]. 13 Brothers, I consider that I, myself, have not yet taken hold [of Christ’s ultimate purpose for me]. But there is one thing that I am doing; I am forgetting about my past [See verses 5-7], and reaching forward to what lies ahead. 14 I am pushing onward toward the goal for the prize of the upward call [i.e., to heaven] from God in [fellowship with] Christ. 15 So, all of us who are mature [Christians] should think this way. And if you people think differently about anything, God will reveal that to you also. 16 So, we should continue living by the same [standard] that we have [already] attained. 17 Brothers, you people should join together in imitating me, and take note of those who are following my example. 18 For I have often told you before, and am telling you again with tears in my eyes, that many people are living as the enemies of the cross of Christ [i.e., their lives oppose the purpose of Christ’s death]. 19 Their [ultimate] end is [spiritual] destruction; their god is their appetite; they boast of what they ought to be ashamed of, and they [constantly] think about worldly things. 20 But we are [really] citizens of heaven and we are waiting for a Savior [to return] from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will change our lowly [physical] bodies and make them like His glorious body. [He will do this] according to the power that enables Him even to bring everything into submission to Himself.
4 1 So, my dearly loved brothers, those whom I long to see, [who are] my [reason for] being glad and [who are] my crown of victory; stand firm in [your devotion to] the Lord, my dear ones. 2 I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to be like-minded in [fellowship with] the Lord. 3 Yes, and I am asking you also, [my] faithful partner [Note: This person is unknown, but may have been one of Paul’s preacher companions], help those women, for they have worked hard with me in [spreading] the Gospel, along with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow-workers, whose names are in the book of life. [See Rev. 3:5; Heb. 12:23]. 4 Rejoice in [fellowship with] the Lord all the time. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 You should let your gentleness be known to all people. The Lord is near. [Note: This “nearness” could refer to Christ’s second coming or to His nearness to His people in a spiritual sense]. 6 Do not worry about anything, but in everything, by prayer and [special] petition, along with thanksgivings, you should make your requests known to God. 7 And [when you do], the peace from God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and thoughts [from anxiety] in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers, give [careful] thought to these things: Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovable, whatever is commendable. If it is excellent; if it is praiseworthy; [think about it]. 9 You people should do those things which you have learned and received and heard from me, and seen in me, and [then] the God [who gives] peace will be with you. 10 I am rejoicing very much in [fellowship with] the Lord that now, after some time, you people have revived your concern for me. Actually, you were concerned, but lacked the opportunity [to show it]. 11 I am not saying this because of being in need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. 12 I know how to get along in humble circumstances and how to live in prosperity. In every situation and in all circumstances, I have learned the secret both to be full and to be hungry, both to have plenty and to be in need. 13 I can do everything through Christ, who gives me the strength. 14 Nevertheless, it was really good of you people to share [with me] during my troubles [i.e., imprisonment]. 15 As you Philippians also know, during the early days of [my] preaching the Gospel [in those regions], when I left Macedonia [Note: This was the northernmost province of Greece], no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving [i.e., financial help], except you only. 16 For even [when I was] in Thessalonica, you sent [money] more than once to meet my needs. 17 [Now] it is not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for the benefit that [such a gift] will add to your [spiritual] account [with God]. 18 But I have everything [I need], and in abundance; I am fully supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts that you sent, [which are like] a fragrant-smelling sacrifice, acceptable and very pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply all your needs [also], according to His glorious wealth [enjoyed by fellowship] in Christ Jesus. 20 Now may there be honor to our God and Father forever and ever. May it be so. 21 Greet every saint [i.e., God’s holy person] in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me [also] send their greetings to you. 22 All the saints [here with me] send you their greetings, especially those belonging to [Emperor] Caesar’s household. 23 May the favor of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
2 1 I want you to know how much I am struggling for you [Note: This probably refers to the great effort Paul was exerting in prayer, preaching, etc.], and for those at Laodicia [Note: This was a town ten miles west of Colosse], and for all those who have never met me in person. 2 [I do this] so that their hearts will be encouraged [while] being united in [mutual] love, [and] so that they will have the wealth of a fully assured understanding, in order to fully know about God’s hidden secret, [which is] Christ. 3 In Him all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden. 4 I say this so that no one will deceive you with persuasive arguments. 5 For even though I am absent [from you] in body, still I am present with you in spirit, rejoicing and observing [i.e., with my mind’s eye] your orderly behavior and the firmness of your faith in Christ. 6 So, since you have accepted Christ Jesus as Lord, live in [fellowship with] Him, 7 rooted and built up in [your relationship to] Him, established by your faith [or, “in the faith”], just as you were taught, overflowing with thanksgiving. 8 Pay attention so that no one takes you [spiritually] captive through his philosophy and empty deception based on human tradition, according to the principles of the world and not according to Christ. 9 For all of the fullness of Deity lives in His body, 10 and you people have been made full [i.e., spiritually complete] in [fellowship with] Him, who is the [spiritual] head over all who rule and have authority. 11 In [fellowship with] Him you people were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human beings, but performed by Christ, consisting of the removal of the body of [sinful] flesh. 12 [This happened when you were] buried with Christ in [the act of] immersion, from which you were also raised up with Him through [your] faith in the accomplishment of God, who raised Him up from the dead. 13 And when you were [spiritually] dead because of your sins and your lack of being physically circumcised [Note: This refers to their having been unconverted Gentiles and therefore outside of a relationship with God], God made you alive [again] together with Christ, having forgiven us for all of our sins. 14 He canceled the document written in ordinances [Note: This obviously refers to the Mosaic law] that was against us and was opposed to us, and has taken it out of the way, nailing it to the cross. 15 [In doing this] Christ disarmed the rulers and authorities [i.e., evil forces] and made a public display of them, triumphing over them through the cross. [Note: This could possibly be rendered “God triumphed over them through Christ”]. 16 So, do not allow anyone to judge [i.e., condemn] you for what you eat, or what you drink, or regarding [your non-observance of] a [yearly] festival, or a [monthly] “new moon” observance, or a [weekly] Sabbath day. 17 These things are [only] a shadow of future things, but the body [i.e., the real substance of things] belongs to Christ. [Note: The idea here is that the ritual observances of the Mosaic law were like shadows pointing to the reality of life in Christ]. 18 Do not allow anyone, who delights in acting humble [i.e., living an ascetic life] and who worships angels, to rob you of your reward [in heaven]. [Note: This “angel worship” could mean holding angels in high regard because of their role as God’s messengers, or the claim that God can be approached only through angelic intermediaries]. He places great importance on what he [claims to] see [i.e., visions], being inflated with pride by his fleshly mind for no [good] reason. 19 He is not holding on [firmly] to the head [i.e., Christ, the head of the church], from whom the entire body, being nourished and supported by its ligaments and joints, is caused to grow in size by God. 20 Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of the world, [then] why, as though you [still] lived in [harmony with] the world, do you submit yourselves to [its] rules, [such as]: 21 “Do not handle [this]; do not taste [that]; do not touch [those things]?” 22 (All these things [i.e., the things handled, tasted or touched] are destined to perish with [constant] use). [These rules are] based on the commands and teachings of men. 23 They certainly have an appearance of wisdom, [displaying] self-prescribed worship and [false] humility and asceticism, but they lack any value in curbing the desires of the physical passions.
3 1 If then you people have been raised up together with Christ [i.e., from your burial in immersion, See 2:12-13 with Rom. 6:4], pay attention to the things that are above [i.e., heavenly things], where Christ is seated at the right side of God. 2 Focus your minds on the things that are above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died [with Christ, See 2:20], and your life is [now] hidden with Christ in [fellowship with] God. 4 [So], when Christ, who is your [or, “our” source of] life, appears [i.e., at His second coming], then you people also will appear with Him in splendor [i.e., in heaven]. 5 So, put to death [i.e., stop practicing the desires of] your physical bodies [such as] sexual immorality, [moral] impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is [in reality] idolatry. 6 For the wrath of God will come [upon disobedient people] for practicing such things. 7 You people also once lived like this when you practiced these things. 8 But now you also should stop practicing them: anger, wrath, malice, slander, filthy language from your mouth. 9 Do not lie to one another, since you have put away [the conduct of] your old person with its practices, 10 and have put on the new person, who is being [daily] renewed with full knowledge, according to the image of God, who [re-] created him. 11 [In this state] there cannot be [such distinctions as] Greek [i.e., Gentile] and Jew; circumcised people and non-circumcised people; barbarian and Scythian [Note: These last two words refer to foreigners whose language was unintelligible and who were uncivilized heathens], or slave and free person; but Christ is all [that is important] and [He is] in all [of His people]. 12 So, as God’s elect [i.e., His people], holy and dearly loved [by Him], clothe yourselves with a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Tolerate one another’s [weaknesses] and forgive each other if anyone [of you] has a complaint against someone else. You should forgive people just as the Lord forgave you. 14 And beyond all these things, clothe yourselves with love, which binds these things together in complete [unity]. 15 You should let the peace given by Christ rule in your hearts, since you people were called [to be at peace] in one body [i.e., the church]; and you should be thankful. 16 You should let the message of Christ live in you abundantly [i.e., as individuals and collectively]. Use [much] wisdom in teaching and warning one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, singing with favor [i.e., with thankfulness] in your hearts toward God. 17 And whatever you do, whether in [your] words or actions, do everything in the name [i.e., by the authority] of Christ, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. 18 You wives should submit to your husbands, as this is proper in [the fellowship of] the Lord. 19 You husbands should love your wives and not be harsh toward them. 20 You children should obey your parents in everything, for this is very pleasing to the Lord. 21 You fathers [Note: By implication, this would include both parents] should not stir up your children [i.e., irritate or exasperate them], so that they do not become discouraged. 22 You slaves should obey your earthly masters in everything, [and] do not do it just when they are looking [at you], or to gain their favor, but do it with a sincere heart, out of reverence for the Lord. 23 In whatever you do, work wholeheartedly, as though it were for the Lord and not [just] for people, 24 knowing that you will receive from the Lord a [spiritual] inheritance as a reward, [for] you are [really] serving the Lord. 25 And the person who does what is wrong will be repaid for his wrongdoing, for there is no favoritism [with God].
4 1 You masters should treat your slaves in a just and fair way, knowing that you also have a Master [who] is in heaven. 2 Continue to pray regularly; stay alert and be thankful. 3 At the same time, pray for us also, that God will open up a door [of opportunity] for [proclaiming] the message, so we can tell about the [previously] hidden secret of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned. 4 [Pray] that I will make it [clearly] known, as I ought to. 5 Be wise in the way you live in front of outsiders [i.e., non-Christians], making the most of every opportunity. 6 Your speech should always be favorable, seasoned with salt [i.e., interesting and appropriate], so that you may know how to properly answer each person [you talk with]. 7 Tychicus will tell you all about my affairs. [Note: This man probably delivered this letter as well as the one to the Ephesians. See Eph. 6:21]. He is our dearly loved brother and faithful minister and fellow-slave in [the service of] the Lord. 8 I have sent [i.e., am sending] him to you for this very purpose, so that you can know our situation and that he can encourage your hearts. 9 [He is coming], together with Onesimus our faithful and dearly loved brother, who is one of you. [Note: This could mean either “from your town” or, “a fellow-Christian”]. They will tell you about everything that is happening here. 10 Aristarchus, my fellow-prisoner, sends you his greetings, along with Barnabas’ cousin [John] Mark. [See Acts 12:12]. (You have received instructions to welcome Mark if he comes to you). 11 Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends his greetings. These men are the only Jews among my fellow-workers for God’s kingdom; they have proved to be an encouragement to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you [See 1:7; 4:9], a slave of Christ Jesus, sends you his greetings. He always struggles in his prayers on your behalf so that you will remain mature and be fully convinced [that you are living] by all that God wants [for your life]. 13 For I testify about Epaphras, that he has worked hard for you, and [also] for those people in Laodicia and Hierapolis. [Note: These are towns close to Colosse]. 14 Luke, my dearly loved physician, and Demas [See II Tim. 4:10] send you their greetings. 15 Greet the brothers who are at Laodicia, and Nympha, along with the church that meets in her house. 16 And when this letter has been read to you people, see that it is read in the church of the Laodicians also. And see that you read the letter [coming] from Laodicia also. [Note: This could have been a reference to the letter to the Ephesians]. 17 And tell Archippus [Note: He may have been the preacher at Colosse or Laodicia. See Philemon 1:1-2], “See to it that you fulfill your ministry [there], which you have received in [the service of] the Lord.” 18 This greeting [is being written] by me, Paul, in my own handwriting. Remember my imprisonment. [Note: This was probably a request for them to pray for him]. May God’s favor be with you.
2 1 Is there anything to be encouraged about by being in [fellowship with] Christ? Is there any comfort from His love? Is there any sharing with the Holy Spirit? [Have you received] any affection and compassion [from Christ]? 2 [Then] make me completely happy by being like-minded, having the same love [for one another], being united in spirit and having the same purpose. 3 Do not do anything from rivalry or from empty conceit, but in humility, consider others better than yourselves. 4 Each of you should not look out for your own interests [only], but also for those of other people. 5 You should think about things the way Christ Jesus did. 6 He existed in the form of God [i.e., He shared God’s very nature], but did not consider [remaining] equal with God something [to continue] to hold onto. 7 Instead, He gave up what He had and took on the form [i.e., the nature] of a slave, becoming like a man, [and even] His appearance was found to be like a man’s. 8 He humbled Himself [by] becoming obedient [to God] to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore, God also exalted Him to the highest position and gave Him the name [i.e., “Lord.” See verse 11], which is superior to every [other] name. 10 [This was] so that, in [honor of] the name of Jesus, everyone’s knee in heaven, on earth and under the earth [i.e., all rational creatures] should bow [i.e., before God], 11 and that everyone’s mouth should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 12 So then, my dear ones, just as you people were always obedient [to my teaching] when I was there with you, so now, in my absence [also], be [obedient] all the more. [Continue to] complete your own salvation [i.e., by living faithfully to the end. See Rom. 13:11] with fear and trembling [i.e., with a reverent and submissive spirit], 13 for it is God who is at work in you, both to motivate the desire and to carry out what pleases Him. 14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, 15 so that you will be without just blame and innocent [of wrongdoing], children of God without fault in the middle of a crooked and perverted generation of people. You must shine among them like stars lighting up the sky, 16 as you hold out [i.e., offer to people] the message of [never ending] life. Then I will have something to boast about on the day of Christ’s [return, See 1:6], that I had not run the race for nothing nor had worked for nothing. 17 But even if I am poured out like a drink offering [See Ex. 29:38-41] on the sacrifice and service produced by your faith, I am glad and will rejoice with all of you. [Note: Paul here likens the possible pouring out of his blood to the wine and oil of the Old Testament sacrifice, which is then likened to the Philippians’ faithful service to God]. 18 And you should be glad and share your joy with me also. 19 But I hope in [harmony with the wishes of] the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I could be encouraged when I learn of your situation [i.e., when Timothy returns with news from Philippi]. 20 For I do not have anyone else [i.e., as a fellow-worker] who thinks the same way I do, and who will genuinely care for your [spiritual and material] needs. 21 For everyone else is looking out for his own interests, not for those of Jesus Christ. 22 But you people know about his proven reliability, how he served with me in advancing [the work of] the Gospel just like a son working with his father. 23 So, I hope to send him [to you] as soon as I see how things will go with me. 24 But I am fully persuaded in [harmony with the wishes of] the Lord that I, myself, also will go to you soon. [Note: Paul here expresses the hope of being released from imprisonment, in spite of previous hints that he might be put to death. See 1:20; 2:17]. 25 But I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow-worker and fellow-soldier, and your messenger [to me] and minister to my needs. 26 For he longed to see all of you and was very distressed because you had heard that he was sick. 27 And indeed, he was [so] sick that he almost died, but God had pity on him, and not only on him but also on me, so that I would not have one sorrow on top of another. 28 So, I am all the more eager to send him to you people, so that when you see him again you will be glad, and that my sorrow will be lessened [i.e., in knowing that you are relieved to see that he is well again]. 29 So, you should welcome him in [the fellowship of] the Lord with great joy, and regard such people with honor, 30 because he almost died for the work of Christ, risking his life to provide me with what you were not able to.
3 1 Finally, my brothers, rejoice in [your relationship to] the Lord. It does not trouble me to write the same things to you again, because you will be safer if I do. [Note: These “same things” may refer to warnings against false teachers which Paul had either spoken to them or written about previously]. 2 Watch out for the “dogs!” [Note: “Dogs” were viewed with disgust by the ancient Jews (Deut. 23:18; II Kings 8:13; Rev. 22:15), so the term is used here derogatorily for Jewish Christians who were trying to impose on the church the requirements of the law of Moses]. Watch out for the evil workers! Watch out for those who mutilate the body meaninglessly! [Note: Paul here alludes, in a derogatory wordplay, to the Jewish practice of circumcision]. 3 For we [Christians] are the [true] circumcision [i.e., the real “Jews” in God’s eyes. See Rom. 2:28-29]. We worship by means of God’s Holy Spirit [i.e., are empowered and motivated by the Holy Spirit], and boast in [the person and work of] Christ Jesus, and [we] place no confidence in the flesh [i.e., in any outward ritual or status for salvation]. 4 However I, myself, have [reasons for such] confidence in the flesh. [But] if any other person has [reasons for placing] confidence in the flesh, I have more [reasons]. 5 [I was] circumcised eight days after I was born; [I am] from the nation of Israelites; from the tribe of Benjamin and of Hebrew ancestry [i.e., an outstanding Hebrew]. As far as the law of Moses is concerned, [I am] a Pharisee [i.e., a strict sect of the Jewish religion]. 6 As far as enthusiasm is concerned, I persecuted the church; as far as being righteous according to the law of Moses is concerned, I was without just blame. 7 However, those things which were [once regarded as] gain to me, I have [now] considered to be loss for [the sake of] Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything to be a loss compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus [as] my Lord, for whose sake I have suffered the loss of all things. [I now] consider [all of] them to be trash, in order to gain Christ 9 and to be found in [fellowship with] Him, not having a righteousness of my own, acquired by observing the law of Moses, but one acquired through believing in Christ. This righteousness, which comes from God, is based on faith. 10 I want to know Christ [as Savior] and to experience the power [produced] by His resurrection, and to share in His sufferings and become like Him in His death, 11 in order to, somehow, be raised out of the dead [i.e., to have never ending life]. 12 [It is] not that I have already arrived at the goal [of spiritual maturity], or have already been made perfectly [righteous], but I am pushing onward in order to take hold of what Christ Jesus took hold of me for [i.e., to receive all that Christ intended for me]. 13 Brothers, I consider that I, myself, have not yet taken hold [of Christ’s ultimate purpose for me]. But there is one thing that I am doing; I am forgetting about my past [See verses 5-7], and reaching forward to what lies ahead. 14 I am pushing onward toward the goal for the prize of the upward call [i.e., to heaven] from God in [fellowship with] Christ. 15 So, all of us who are mature [Christians] should think this way. And if you people think differently about anything, God will reveal that to you also. 16 So, we should continue living by the same [standard] that we have [already] attained. 17 Brothers, you people should join together in imitating me, and take note of those who are following my example. 18 For I have often told you before, and am telling you again with tears in my eyes, that many people are living as the enemies of the cross of Christ [i.e., their lives oppose the purpose of Christ’s death]. 19 Their [ultimate] end is [spiritual] destruction; their god is their appetite; they boast of what they ought to be ashamed of, and they [constantly] think about worldly things. 20 But we are [really] citizens of heaven and we are waiting for a Savior [to return] from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will change our lowly [physical] bodies and make them like His glorious body. [He will do this] according to the power that enables Him even to bring everything into submission to Himself.
4 1 So, my dearly loved brothers, those whom I long to see, [who are] my [reason for] being glad and [who are] my crown of victory; stand firm in [your devotion to] the Lord, my dear ones. 2 I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to be like-minded in [fellowship with] the Lord. 3 Yes, and I am asking you also, [my] faithful partner [Note: This person is unknown, but may have been one of Paul’s preacher companions], help those women, for they have worked hard with me in [spreading] the Gospel, along with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow-workers, whose names are in the book of life. [See Rev. 3:5; Heb. 12:23]. 4 Rejoice in [fellowship with] the Lord all the time. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 You should let your gentleness be known to all people. The Lord is near. [Note: This “nearness” could refer to Christ’s second coming or to His nearness to His people in a spiritual sense]. 6 Do not worry about anything, but in everything, by prayer and [special] petition, along with thanksgivings, you should make your requests known to God. 7 And [when you do], the peace from God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and thoughts [from anxiety] in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers, give [careful] thought to these things: Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovable, whatever is commendable. If it is excellent; if it is praiseworthy; [think about it]. 9 You people should do those things which you have learned and received and heard from me, and seen in me, and [then] the God [who gives] peace will be with you. 10 I am rejoicing very much in [fellowship with] the Lord that now, after some time, you people have revived your concern for me. Actually, you were concerned, but lacked the opportunity [to show it]. 11 I am not saying this because of being in need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. 12 I know how to get along in humble circumstances and how to live in prosperity. In every situation and in all circumstances, I have learned the secret both to be full and to be hungry, both to have plenty and to be in need. 13 I can do everything through Christ, who gives me the strength. 14 Nevertheless, it was really good of you people to share [with me] during my troubles [i.e., imprisonment]. 15 As you Philippians also know, during the early days of [my] preaching the Gospel [in those regions], when I left Macedonia [Note: This was the northernmost province of Greece], no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving [i.e., financial help], except you only. 16 For even [when I was] in Thessalonica, you sent [money] more than once to meet my needs. 17 [Now] it is not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for the benefit that [such a gift] will add to your [spiritual] account [with God]. 18 But I have everything [I need], and in abundance; I am fully supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts that you sent, [which are like] a fragrant-smelling sacrifice, acceptable and very pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply all your needs [also], according to His glorious wealth [enjoyed by fellowship] in Christ Jesus. 20 Now may there be honor to our God and Father forever and ever. May it be so. 21 Greet every saint [i.e., God’s holy person] in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me [also] send their greetings to you. 22 All the saints [here with me] send you their greetings, especially those belonging to [Emperor] Caesar’s household. 23 May the favor of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
Colossians
1 1 [This letter is from] Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will, and [from] our brother Timothy, 2 [and is being sent] to the saints [i.e., God’s holy people] and faithful brothers in [fellowship with] Christ [who live] at Colosse. May you have unearned favor and peace from God our Father. 3 Whenever we pray for you, we always thank God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 4 for we have heard about [the evidence of] your faith in [the service of] Christ Jesus, and about the love you have [shown] for all the saints. 5 [You have these qualities] because of the hope stored up for you in heaven, which [hope] you previously heard about through the message of truth when the Gospel 6 came to you. This Gospel is [now] also producing fruit all over the world [i.e., throughout the Roman Empire] and growing [in its influence], just as it is doing among you people also, since the day you [first] heard and understood God’s unearned favor in [all its] truth. 7 You learned [this truth] from Epaphras, our dearly loved fellow-slave, who is a faithful minister of Christ [to you] on our behalf. 8 He also told us about your love, [which is produced] by the Holy Spirit. 9 So, this is why, since the day we heard about these things, we do not stop praying for you and requesting that you people be filled [by God] with the knowledge of what He wants [for your lives], and with spiritual wisdom and understanding. 10 [We pray for you] to live a life deserving of the Lord, pleasing to Him in every way, producing fruit in every good deed and growing in the knowledge of God. 11 [We also pray that you will be] strengthened with great power, according to God’s glorious might, so that you will have great endurance and patience [coupled] with joy. 12 [May you] give thanks to the Father who has enabled you to share [i.e., eventually] in the inheritance of the saints [i.e., God’s holy people] in [the kingdom of] light. 13 He rescued us from the domain of [spiritual] darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son whom He loves, 14 through whom we receive redemption [i.e., are bought back from Satan], which is the forgiveness of [our] sins. 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn One [i.e., who takes preeminence] over all that is created. 16 For all things were created by Him; things in heaven and on earth; things visible and invisible, whether they are thrones [i.e., reigning beings], or lords, or rulers or authorities. [Note: “Authorities” here may refer to angelic beings]. All things were created by Him and for Him. 17 And He existed before all things and all things are held together by Him. 18 And He is the head of the [spiritual] body, the church. He is [its] source, the firstborn One from the dead [i.e., the first one to return to life, never to die again], so that He could rank first [in importance] over all things. 19 For God was very pleased to have all of [His] fullness dwell in Christ [See 2:9], 20 and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, whether things on earth or things in heaven. He made peace [with mankind] through the [sacrificial] blood of Christ’s [death on the] cross. 21 And though you were once estranged [from God] and were enemies [of His] in your mind because of your evil deeds, 22 yet now God has reconciled [you] to Himself through the death of Christ’s physical body in order to present you holy, without fault and free from just blame before Him [on judgment day]. 23 [This will happen] if you continue in the faith [Note: This means either “continue to observe God’s teaching” or, “continue to believe”], firmly grounded and established, and not moved away from the hope offered by the Gospel message, which you have heard and which was preached to people throughout the entire created world under heaven. I, Paul, was made a minister of this Gospel. 24 Now I rejoice in [spite of] my sufferings for your sake, and I am filling up [i.e., completing] in my physical body what was lacking in the afflictions Christ endured for His body’s sake, the church. 25 I was made a minister of the church according to the task given to me by God to fully present His message to you. 26 [This message is] the secret which has been kept hidden throughout the ages and generations, but has now been revealed to God’s saints [i.e., His holy people]. 27 He was pleased to make known to these people the wealth of His splendor among the Gentiles; this hidden secret, which is Christ among you, [is] the hope of being honored [i.e., in heaven]. 28 We proclaim Him, warning and teaching every person with all wisdom, so that we may present every person [to God] complete in [their fellowship with] Christ. 29 This is the reason that I work hard and struggle also, using God’s mighty power which is at work in me.2 1 I want you to know how much I am struggling for you [Note: This probably refers to the great effort Paul was exerting in prayer, preaching, etc.], and for those at Laodicia [Note: This was a town ten miles west of Colosse], and for all those who have never met me in person. 2 [I do this] so that their hearts will be encouraged [while] being united in [mutual] love, [and] so that they will have the wealth of a fully assured understanding, in order to fully know about God’s hidden secret, [which is] Christ. 3 In Him all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden. 4 I say this so that no one will deceive you with persuasive arguments. 5 For even though I am absent [from you] in body, still I am present with you in spirit, rejoicing and observing [i.e., with my mind’s eye] your orderly behavior and the firmness of your faith in Christ. 6 So, since you have accepted Christ Jesus as Lord, live in [fellowship with] Him, 7 rooted and built up in [your relationship to] Him, established by your faith [or, “in the faith”], just as you were taught, overflowing with thanksgiving. 8 Pay attention so that no one takes you [spiritually] captive through his philosophy and empty deception based on human tradition, according to the principles of the world and not according to Christ. 9 For all of the fullness of Deity lives in His body, 10 and you people have been made full [i.e., spiritually complete] in [fellowship with] Him, who is the [spiritual] head over all who rule and have authority. 11 In [fellowship with] Him you people were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human beings, but performed by Christ, consisting of the removal of the body of [sinful] flesh. 12 [This happened when you were] buried with Christ in [the act of] immersion, from which you were also raised up with Him through [your] faith in the accomplishment of God, who raised Him up from the dead. 13 And when you were [spiritually] dead because of your sins and your lack of being physically circumcised [Note: This refers to their having been unconverted Gentiles and therefore outside of a relationship with God], God made you alive [again] together with Christ, having forgiven us for all of our sins. 14 He canceled the document written in ordinances [Note: This obviously refers to the Mosaic law] that was against us and was opposed to us, and has taken it out of the way, nailing it to the cross. 15 [In doing this] Christ disarmed the rulers and authorities [i.e., evil forces] and made a public display of them, triumphing over them through the cross. [Note: This could possibly be rendered “God triumphed over them through Christ”]. 16 So, do not allow anyone to judge [i.e., condemn] you for what you eat, or what you drink, or regarding [your non-observance of] a [yearly] festival, or a [monthly] “new moon” observance, or a [weekly] Sabbath day. 17 These things are [only] a shadow of future things, but the body [i.e., the real substance of things] belongs to Christ. [Note: The idea here is that the ritual observances of the Mosaic law were like shadows pointing to the reality of life in Christ]. 18 Do not allow anyone, who delights in acting humble [i.e., living an ascetic life] and who worships angels, to rob you of your reward [in heaven]. [Note: This “angel worship” could mean holding angels in high regard because of their role as God’s messengers, or the claim that God can be approached only through angelic intermediaries]. He places great importance on what he [claims to] see [i.e., visions], being inflated with pride by his fleshly mind for no [good] reason. 19 He is not holding on [firmly] to the head [i.e., Christ, the head of the church], from whom the entire body, being nourished and supported by its ligaments and joints, is caused to grow in size by God. 20 Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of the world, [then] why, as though you [still] lived in [harmony with] the world, do you submit yourselves to [its] rules, [such as]: 21 “Do not handle [this]; do not taste [that]; do not touch [those things]?” 22 (All these things [i.e., the things handled, tasted or touched] are destined to perish with [constant] use). [These rules are] based on the commands and teachings of men. 23 They certainly have an appearance of wisdom, [displaying] self-prescribed worship and [false] humility and asceticism, but they lack any value in curbing the desires of the physical passions.
3 1 If then you people have been raised up together with Christ [i.e., from your burial in immersion, See 2:12-13 with Rom. 6:4], pay attention to the things that are above [i.e., heavenly things], where Christ is seated at the right side of God. 2 Focus your minds on the things that are above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died [with Christ, See 2:20], and your life is [now] hidden with Christ in [fellowship with] God. 4 [So], when Christ, who is your [or, “our” source of] life, appears [i.e., at His second coming], then you people also will appear with Him in splendor [i.e., in heaven]. 5 So, put to death [i.e., stop practicing the desires of] your physical bodies [such as] sexual immorality, [moral] impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is [in reality] idolatry. 6 For the wrath of God will come [upon disobedient people] for practicing such things. 7 You people also once lived like this when you practiced these things. 8 But now you also should stop practicing them: anger, wrath, malice, slander, filthy language from your mouth. 9 Do not lie to one another, since you have put away [the conduct of] your old person with its practices, 10 and have put on the new person, who is being [daily] renewed with full knowledge, according to the image of God, who [re-] created him. 11 [In this state] there cannot be [such distinctions as] Greek [i.e., Gentile] and Jew; circumcised people and non-circumcised people; barbarian and Scythian [Note: These last two words refer to foreigners whose language was unintelligible and who were uncivilized heathens], or slave and free person; but Christ is all [that is important] and [He is] in all [of His people]. 12 So, as God’s elect [i.e., His people], holy and dearly loved [by Him], clothe yourselves with a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Tolerate one another’s [weaknesses] and forgive each other if anyone [of you] has a complaint against someone else. You should forgive people just as the Lord forgave you. 14 And beyond all these things, clothe yourselves with love, which binds these things together in complete [unity]. 15 You should let the peace given by Christ rule in your hearts, since you people were called [to be at peace] in one body [i.e., the church]; and you should be thankful. 16 You should let the message of Christ live in you abundantly [i.e., as individuals and collectively]. Use [much] wisdom in teaching and warning one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, singing with favor [i.e., with thankfulness] in your hearts toward God. 17 And whatever you do, whether in [your] words or actions, do everything in the name [i.e., by the authority] of Christ, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. 18 You wives should submit to your husbands, as this is proper in [the fellowship of] the Lord. 19 You husbands should love your wives and not be harsh toward them. 20 You children should obey your parents in everything, for this is very pleasing to the Lord. 21 You fathers [Note: By implication, this would include both parents] should not stir up your children [i.e., irritate or exasperate them], so that they do not become discouraged. 22 You slaves should obey your earthly masters in everything, [and] do not do it just when they are looking [at you], or to gain their favor, but do it with a sincere heart, out of reverence for the Lord. 23 In whatever you do, work wholeheartedly, as though it were for the Lord and not [just] for people, 24 knowing that you will receive from the Lord a [spiritual] inheritance as a reward, [for] you are [really] serving the Lord. 25 And the person who does what is wrong will be repaid for his wrongdoing, for there is no favoritism [with God].
4 1 You masters should treat your slaves in a just and fair way, knowing that you also have a Master [who] is in heaven. 2 Continue to pray regularly; stay alert and be thankful. 3 At the same time, pray for us also, that God will open up a door [of opportunity] for [proclaiming] the message, so we can tell about the [previously] hidden secret of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned. 4 [Pray] that I will make it [clearly] known, as I ought to. 5 Be wise in the way you live in front of outsiders [i.e., non-Christians], making the most of every opportunity. 6 Your speech should always be favorable, seasoned with salt [i.e., interesting and appropriate], so that you may know how to properly answer each person [you talk with]. 7 Tychicus will tell you all about my affairs. [Note: This man probably delivered this letter as well as the one to the Ephesians. See Eph. 6:21]. He is our dearly loved brother and faithful minister and fellow-slave in [the service of] the Lord. 8 I have sent [i.e., am sending] him to you for this very purpose, so that you can know our situation and that he can encourage your hearts. 9 [He is coming], together with Onesimus our faithful and dearly loved brother, who is one of you. [Note: This could mean either “from your town” or, “a fellow-Christian”]. They will tell you about everything that is happening here. 10 Aristarchus, my fellow-prisoner, sends you his greetings, along with Barnabas’ cousin [John] Mark. [See Acts 12:12]. (You have received instructions to welcome Mark if he comes to you). 11 Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends his greetings. These men are the only Jews among my fellow-workers for God’s kingdom; they have proved to be an encouragement to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you [See 1:7; 4:9], a slave of Christ Jesus, sends you his greetings. He always struggles in his prayers on your behalf so that you will remain mature and be fully convinced [that you are living] by all that God wants [for your life]. 13 For I testify about Epaphras, that he has worked hard for you, and [also] for those people in Laodicia and Hierapolis. [Note: These are towns close to Colosse]. 14 Luke, my dearly loved physician, and Demas [See II Tim. 4:10] send you their greetings. 15 Greet the brothers who are at Laodicia, and Nympha, along with the church that meets in her house. 16 And when this letter has been read to you people, see that it is read in the church of the Laodicians also. And see that you read the letter [coming] from Laodicia also. [Note: This could have been a reference to the letter to the Ephesians]. 17 And tell Archippus [Note: He may have been the preacher at Colosse or Laodicia. See Philemon 1:1-2], “See to it that you fulfill your ministry [there], which you have received in [the service of] the Lord.” 18 This greeting [is being written] by me, Paul, in my own handwriting. Remember my imprisonment. [Note: This was probably a request for them to pray for him]. May God’s favor be with you.