Philippians 2:18
For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.
Original Language Analysis
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτὸ
the same cause
G846
αὐτὸ
the same cause
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
3 of 9
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 9
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
χαίρετε
do
G5463
χαίρετε
do
Strong's:
G5463
Word #:
6 of 9
to be "cheer"ful, i.e., calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation (on meeting or parting), be well
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 9
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
Ancient mourning customs involved public lamentation, wailing, and extended grief. Paul subverts this: his death deserves celebration. This reflects Jesus's teaching that disciples shouldn't mourn when the bridegroom is taken (Matt 9:15) because resurrection guarantees reunion. Early Christian funerals became victory celebrations (Latin: dies natalis, "birthday" into eternal life). Greco-Roman culture found this incomprehensible—but it testified to resurrection faith.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you 'rejoice with' (synchairete) those who suffer or face death like Paul did?
- What would it take for you to command others to rejoice over your suffering or martyrdom?
- How does resurrection hope transform grief into joy in Christian community?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me (τὸ δὲ αὐτὸ καὶ ὑμεῖς χαίρετε καὶ συγχαίρετέ μοι, to de auto kai hymeis chairete kai synchairete moi)—To de auto ("the same thing, likewise") links Philippians' response to Paul's joy (v. 17). Chairete kai synchairete ("rejoice and rejoice with") are present imperatives—commands for ongoing, mutual joy. Moi ("with me") makes joy corporate, shared. Paul doesn't want their grief but their joy.
This reciprocal joy (Paul rejoices with them, v. 17; they rejoice with him, v. 18) models Christian community. Suffering doesn't produce sorrow but shared joy rooted in gospel confidence. This is Philippians' dominant theme: joy transcending circumstances, grounded in Christ. Paul's potential martyrdom occasions celebration, not lamentation, because death is gain (1:21) and Christ is exalted (1:20). The call to rejoice in another's suffering seems callous unless rooted in resurrection hope.