Philippians Chapter 4 · Verse 8
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.
Original Language Analysis
Τὸ
G3588
Τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 25
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀδελφοί
brethren
G80
ἀδελφοί
brethren
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
3 of 25
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
δίκαια
are just
G1342
δίκαια
are just
Strong's:
G1342
Word #:
10 of 25
equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)
ἁγνά
are pure
G53
ἁγνά
are pure
Strong's:
G53
Word #:
12 of 25
properly, clean, i.e., (figuratively) innocent, modest, perfect
ἀρετὴ
virtue
G703
ἀρετὴ
virtue
Strong's:
G703
Word #:
19 of 25
properly, manliness (valor), i.e., excellence (intrinsic or attributed)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
20 of 25
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
James 3:17But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.Titus 2:7In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,2 Corinthians 8:21Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.Galatians 5:22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,1 Peter 2:12Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.1 Timothy 4:12Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.Hebrews 13:18Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.Ephesians 5:9(For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)Titus 1:8But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;1 John 3:3And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
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 Virtuous thinking?
- What specific application can you make from this teaching this week?
- How does this verse point to Christ's sufficiency in all circumstances?
Analysis & Commentary
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.
Eightfold hosa ("whatever is...") list: alēthē, semna, dikaia, hagna, prosphilē, euphēma (true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable). Logizesthe ("think on, reckon")—cultivate virtuous thought-life. 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.