Philippians 4:8

Authorized King James Version

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

λοιπόν

G3063

Finally

something remaining (adverbially)

ἀδελφοί

G80

brethren

a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)

ὅσα

G3745

whatsoever things

as (much, great, long, etc.) as

ἐστὶν

G2076

are

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

ἀληθῆ

G227

true

true (as not concealing)

ὅσα

G3745

whatsoever things

as (much, great, long, etc.) as

σεμνά

G4586

are honest

venerable, i.e., honorable

ὅσα

G3745

whatsoever things

as (much, great, long, etc.) as

#10

δίκαια

G1342

are just

equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)

#11

ὅσα

G3745

whatsoever things

as (much, great, long, etc.) as

#12

ἁγνά

G53

are pure

properly, clean, i.e., (figuratively) innocent, modest, perfect

#13

ὅσα

G3745

whatsoever things

as (much, great, long, etc.) as

#14

προσφιλῆ

G4375

are lovely

friendly towards, i.e., acceptable

#15

ὅσα

G3745

whatsoever things

as (much, great, long, etc.) as

#16

εὔφημα

G2163

are of good report

well spoken of, i.e., reputable

#17

εἴ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

#18

τις

G5100

some or any person or object

#19

ἀρετὴ

G703

virtue

properly, manliness (valor), i.e., excellence (intrinsic or attributed)

#20

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#21

εἴ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

#22

τις

G5100

some or any person or object

#23

ἔπαινος

G1868

praise

laudation; concretely, a commendable thing

#24

ταῦτα

G5023

on these things

these things

#25

λογίζεσθε·

G3049

think

to take an inventory, i.e., estimate (literally or figuratively)

Cross References

Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):

¹ Colossians 3:2 Colossians 3:2
Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
— Set your affection on things above
² Romans 12:2 Romans 12:2
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
— Be transformed by renewing of mind

Analysis

Within the broader context of Philippians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Philippians.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Philippians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding love in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Peace