Bible Strands
Philippians 2:19
Now I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I learn how you are doing.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Philippian congregation while finalizing his decision to dispatch Timothy as his traveling representative. He positions this announcement within his ongoing apostolic cycle of ministry, travel, and pastoral oversight.
The words — Ἐλπίζω (Elpizō) translates literally as "I am hoping," denoting a grounded expectation rather than a passive wish. This verb is explicitly tied to ἐν κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ (en kyriō Iēsou), anchoring the anticipated action directly in the authority and agency of the Lord Jesus.
The thread — Paul’s intention to send Timothy mirrors his prior instructions in 1 Corinthians 4:17 and 1 Thessalonians 3:2, where Timothy functions to reinforce apostolic teaching and fortify the churches. The anticipated update on the Philippians' spiritual state directly parallels the report Timothy later delivers in 1 Thessalonians 3:6.
Why it lands — The text states that Paul's personal encouragement depends on receiving a concrete report of the believers' condition through a trusted envoy. It requires the reader to accept that pastoral care operates through deliberate action, reliable messengers, and shared accountability rather than abstract 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
But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.
Cross-references
- 1 Corinthians 4:17 That is why I have sent you Timothy, my beloved and faithful child in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which is exactly what I teach everywhere in every church.
- 1 Thessalonians 3:6 But just now, Timothy has returned from his visit with the good news about your faith, your love, and the fond memories you have preserved, longing to see us just as we long to see you.
- 1 Thessalonians 3:2 We sent Timothy, our brother and fellow worker for God in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith,
- Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons:
- Philippians 2:23 So I hope to send him as soon as I see what happens with me.
- Philippians 2:28 Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less anxious.
- Colossians 4:8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know about us, and that he may encourage your hearts.
- Philemon 1:5 because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints.
- Jeremiah 17:5 This is what the LORD says: “Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind, who makes mere flesh his strength and turns his heart from the LORD.
- Matthew 12:21 In His name the nations will put their hope.”