Bible Strands
Philippians 1:8
God is my witness how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul writes from imprisonment to the Philippian believers, addressing those who share in his chains and gospel defense. He shifts from their corporate partnership in grace to a personal declaration of his spiritual posture toward them.
The words — ἐπιποθῶ (epipothō) literally means "I long after," and Μάρτυς (Martus) means "witness." The phrase "God is my witness" functions as a solemn attestation that precedes Paul's declaration of intense longing.
The thread — Romans 1:9 uses the exact formula "God is my witness" to attest Paul's constant remembrance of believers. Philippians 4:1 and 1 Thessalonians 2:8 echo the theme of apostolic longing and deep affection but contain no reference to God as witness or divine attestation.
Why it lands — The text states that Christian affection is measured by the affection of Christ Jesus, not human preference. It requires readers to ground their relationships in spiritual partnership and divine accountability rather than emotional sentiment.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.
Cross-references
- Romans 1:9 God, whom I serve with my spirit in preaching the gospel of His Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you
- Philippians 4:1 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you must stand firm in the Lord, my beloved.
- 1 Thessalonians 2:8 We cared so deeply that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God, but our own lives as well. That is how beloved you have become to us.
- 2 Timothy 1:4 Recalling your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy.
- Romans 9:1 I speak the truth in Christ; I am not lying, as confirmed by my conscience in the Holy Spirit.
- Colossians 2:1 For I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me face to face,
- Jeremiah 31:20 Is not Ephraim a precious son to Me, a delightful child? Though I often speak against him, I still remember him. Therefore My heart yearns for him; I have great compassion for him,” declares the LORD.
- Philemon 1:12 I am sending back to you him who is my very heart.
- Isaiah 16:11 Therefore my heart laments for Moab like a harp, my inmost being for Kir-heres.
- Isaiah 63:15 Look down from heaven and see, from Your holy and glorious habitation. Where are Your zeal and might? Your yearning and compassion for me are restrained.