Philippians 4:18

I have all I need and more, now that I have received your gifts from Epaphroditus. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.

Study Bible

I have received full payment and even more
In this opening phrase, Paul expresses his gratitude and contentment. The Greek word for "received" is "ἀπέχω" (apechō), which implies having received in full or having been paid in full. This term is often used in financial contexts, suggesting that Paul feels completely satisfied with the support he has received from the Philippians. Historically, this reflects the practice of patrons and clients in the Greco-Roman world, where gifts and support were part of maintaining relationships. Paul’s use of this term underscores the completeness of the Philippians' generosity and his own contentment.

I am amply supplied
The phrase "amply supplied" comes from the Greek "πεπλήρωμαι" (peplērōmai), meaning to be filled or to have abundance. This word choice indicates that Paul is not merely getting by; he is abundantly provided for. In a spiritual sense, this reflects the sufficiency of God’s provision through the body of Christ. The historical context of Paul’s missionary journeys often involved financial hardship, making this statement of abundance particularly poignant. It serves as a testament to the faithfulness of the Philippian church and God’s provision through them.

now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent
Epaphroditus is mentioned here as the messenger and deliverer of the Philippians' gifts. His name, derived from the Greek goddess Aphrodite, was common in the Greco-Roman world. Epaphroditus is a key figure in the Philippian church, and his role as a courier highlights the close relationship between Paul and the Philippians. The "gifts" refer to the material support sent by the church, which was crucial for Paul’s sustenance and ministry. This act of giving is a practical demonstration of Christian fellowship and love, reflecting the early church’s commitment to supporting one another.

They are a fragrant offering
The term "fragrant offering" is deeply rooted in Old Testament sacrificial language. The Greek word "ὀσμὴν εὐωδίας" (osmēn euōdias) translates to a sweet-smelling aroma, reminiscent of the sacrifices described in Leviticus. This metaphor elevates the Philippians' gifts to a spiritual act of worship, pleasing to God. It connects their generosity to the sacrificial system, where offerings were made to honor and please God. This imagery would resonate with both Jewish and Gentile believers familiar with sacrificial practices, emphasizing that their material support is a holy and acceptable act of worship.

an acceptable sacrifice
The phrase "acceptable sacrifice" uses the Greek "θυσίαν δεκτήν" (thysian dektēn), which conveys the idea of a sacrifice that is well-pleasing and approved by God. In the context of the New Testament, this reflects the shift from physical sacrifices to spiritual acts of worship and service. The Philippians' generosity is seen as a spiritual sacrifice, aligning with Romans 12:1, where believers are urged to offer their bodies as living sacrifices. This concept underscores the idea that acts of kindness and support within the Christian community are valued by God as true worship.

pleasing to God
The final phrase, "pleasing to God," uses the Greek "εὐάρεστος τῷ Θεῷ" (euarestos tō Theō), meaning well-pleasing or fully agreeable to God. This emphasizes that the Philippians' actions are not only beneficial to Paul but are also in alignment with God’s will and delight. The historical context of this phrase reflects the early Christian understanding that God is actively involved in the lives of believers, taking pleasure in their acts of love and service. It serves as an encouragement to the Philippians and to all believers that their generosity and support are not only appreciated by those who receive them but are also a source of joy to God Himself.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to the Philippians while imprisoned. He expresses gratitude for the support he received from the Philippian church.

2. Epaphroditus
A member of the Philippian church who delivered their gifts to Paul. He is mentioned as a faithful servant and messenger.

3. Philippian Church
The recipients of Paul's letter, known for their generosity and support of Paul's ministry.

4. Rome
The likely place where Paul was imprisoned when he wrote this letter.

5. Gifts
The material support sent by the Philippians to Paul, which he describes as a "fragrant offering."

Teaching Points

Generosity as Worship
The Philippians' gifts are described as a "fragrant offering," indicating that acts of generosity are a form of worship pleasing to God.

Contentment in Christ
Paul expresses contentment, having received "everything in full." This teaches us to find contentment in Christ, regardless of our material circumstances.

Partnership in the Gospel
The Philippians' support of Paul demonstrates the importance of partnering in ministry, showing that financial and material support is crucial for the advancement of the Gospel.

Sacrificial Giving
The gifts are called an "acceptable sacrifice," reminding us that true giving often involves sacrifice and is a reflection of our faith and trust in God.

God's Provision
Paul's acknowledgment of being "fully supplied" highlights God's provision through the generosity of others, encouraging us to trust in God's provision for our needs.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's description of the Philippians' gifts as a "fragrant offering" influence your understanding of giving as an act of worship?

2. In what ways can you practice contentment in your current circumstances, following Paul's example in Philippians 4:18?

3. How can you actively participate in the partnership of the Gospel, similar to the Philippians' support of Paul?

4. Reflect on a time when you gave sacrificially. How did that experience impact your faith and relationship with God?

5. How can you trust in God's provision in your life, and what steps can you take to be a channel of His provision to others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Corinthians 9:12
This verse discusses the service of giving and how it supplies the needs of the saints, similar to how the Philippians' gifts supplied Paul's needs.

Hebrews 13:16
This verse encourages believers to do good and share with others, as such sacrifices are pleasing to God, echoing the sentiment in Philippians 4:18.

Ephesians 5:2
Paul speaks of Christ's sacrifice as a fragrant offering, drawing a parallel to the Philippians' gifts being a pleasing sacrifice to God.