Philippians 4:14
Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.
Original Language Analysis
πλὴν
Notwithstanding
G4133
πλὴν
Notwithstanding
Strong's:
G4133
Word #:
1 of 7
moreover (besides), i.e., albeit, save that, rather, yet
ἐποιήσατε
done
G4160
ἐποιήσατε
done
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
3 of 7
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
συγκοινωνήσαντές
that ye did communicate with
G4790
συγκοινωνήσαντές
that ye did communicate with
Strong's:
G4790
Word #:
4 of 7
to share in company with, i.e., co-participate in
Cross References
Hebrews 13:16But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.Philippians 1:7Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.Hebrews 10:34For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.Galatians 6:6Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.1 Kings 8:18And the LORD said unto David my father, Whereas it was in thine heart to build an house unto my name, thou didst well that it was in thine heart.Philippians 4:18But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.1 Timothy 6:18That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;Romans 15:27It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things.Matthew 25:21His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.2 Chronicles 6:8But the LORD said to David my father, Forasmuch as it was in thine heart to build an house for my name, thou didst well in that it was in thine heart:
Historical Context
Philippian support was unique: they alone partnered financially with Paul consistently (v. 15). Their gift to imprisoned Paul showed courage (associating with prisoner was politically risky) and love. Paul's gratitude is warm but qualified—he doesn't want them feeling obligated or him appearing mercenary. His balance models pastoral receiving of support: grateful without being demanding, self-sufficient yet appreciative.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Paul balance contentment (vv. 11-13) with gratitude for support (v. 14) without contradiction?
- What does it mean to 'share in affliction' (synkoinōnēsantes tē thlipsei) beyond mere financial giving?
- How can you cultivate gratitude for others' support while maintaining contentment in Christ alone?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction (πλὴν καλῶς ἐποιήσατε συγκοινωνήσαντές μου τῇ θλίψει, plēn kalōs epoiēsate synkoinōnēsantes mou tē thlipsei)—Plēn ("nevertheless, yet") transitions from self-sufficiency (vv. 11-13) to gratitude for Philippian support. Kalōs epoiēsate ("you did well")—commendation. Synkoinōnēsantes mou tē thlipsei ("having shared with me in affliction")—synkoinōneō ("to share together, participate with") shows partnership. Their gift wasn't mere charity but koinōnia ("fellowship")—sharing Paul's suffering and mission. This balances vv. 11-13: Paul doesn't need them, but their giving blesses them (vv. 17, 19) and honors God. He's content alone yet grateful for partnership.