Philippians 4:1
Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.
Original Language Analysis
Ὥστε
Therefore
G5620
Ὥστε
Therefore
Strong's:
G5620
Word #:
1 of 15
so too, i.e., thus therefore (in various relations of consecution, as follow)
ἀδελφοί
brethren
G80
ἀδελφοί
brethren
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
2 of 15
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
στέφανός
crown
G4735
στέφανός
crown
Strong's:
G4735
Word #:
9 of 15
a chaplet (as a badge of royalty, a prize in the public games or a symbol of honor generally; but more conspicuous and elaborate than the simple fille
στήκετε
stand fast
G4739
στήκετε
stand fast
Strong's:
G4739
Word #:
12 of 15
to be stationary, i.e., (figuratively) to persevere
Cross References
Philippians 1:27Only 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;1 Corinthians 16:13Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.Philippians 2:16Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.Psalms 27:14Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.1 Corinthians 15:58Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.Philippians 1:8For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.Hebrews 10:23Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)Romans 2:7To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:John 8:31Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;Acts 11:23Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.
Historical Context
Philippians chapter 4 concludes Paul's most joyful letter, written from Roman imprisonment (c. AD 60-62). The Philippian church, Paul's most faithful financial partner, sent support via Epaphroditus. Paul's gratitude, exhortations to joy and peace, and contentment teaching modeled Christ-centered living regardless of external circumstances—a powerful witness in the Roman world.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse challenge your perspective on Stand fast, beloved community?
- What specific application can you make from this teaching this week?
- How does this verse point to Christ's sufficiency in all circumstances?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.
Paul's affection overflows: agapētoi kai epipothētoi ("beloved and longed for"), chara kai stephanos ("joy and crown"). They're his eschatological reward (2:16). Stēkete en kyriō ("stand fast in the Lord")—military metaphor recalls 1:27. This verse contributes to Philippians chapter 4's themes of joy, peace, contentment, and gratitude—Paul's prison epistle climax showing joy transcending circumstances through Christ's sufficiency.