Philippians 4:15

And as you Philippians know, in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church but you partnered with me in the matter of giving and receiving.

Berean Standard Bible

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Study note

Setting — Paul addresses the Philippian believers, recalling his initial departure from Macedonia during the early expansion of the gospel. He speaks to them directly to establish a shared historical baseline for his current appeal.

The words — οἴδατε (oidate) translates literally as "you know," stressing the author's appeal to their direct memory. ἀρχῇ (archēa) means "the beginning," pinpointing the exact temporal origin of their financial cooperation.

The thread — This early partnership is echoed in Philippians 1:5, which cites their support from the first day until now. The exclusive nature of their early aid contrasts with Paul's later practice in 2 Corinthians 11:8 and his initial ministry at Lydia's house in Acts 16:40.

Why it lands — The text requires the reader to recognize that sustained financial partnership is rooted in shared historical commitment, not merely present circumstances. It demands an honest accounting of who has stood with the gospel worker and when that support began.

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

Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.

Cross-references

Philippians 1:5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now,
2 Corinthians 11:8 I robbed other churches by accepting their support in order to serve you.
Acts 16:40 After Paul and Silas came out of the prison, they went to Lydia’s house to see the brothers and encourage them. Then they left the city.
2 Corinthians 12:11 I have become a fool, but you drove me to it. In fact, you should have commended me, since I am in no way inferior to those “super-apostles,” even though I am nothing.
2 Kings 5:16 But Elisha replied, “As surely as the LORD lives, before whom I stand, I will not accept it.” And although Naaman urged him to accept it, he refused.
2 Kings 5:20 Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, “Look, my master has spared this Aramean, Naaman, by not accepting what he brought. As surely as the LORD lives, I will run after him and get something from him.”