Philippians 4:8

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things.

Berean Standard Bible

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Study note

Setting — Paul writes to the Philippian congregation from prison, placing this exhortation between a promise of peace (v. 7) and a call to practice (v. 9). He addresses them as ἀδελφοί, "brothers," in the letter's closing charge.

The words — σεμνά (semna), rendered "honorable," is a rare NT word carrying the sense of awe-inspiring dignity rather than mere social respect. The anaphoric ὅσα (hosa), "whatever," is repeated to build the list as a filter, not a simple enumeration.

The thread — The same cluster of qualities appears in James 3:17 (purity, peace, gentleness) and Titus 2:7 (integrity, dignity), while Romans 12:9 issues the parallel command: "cling to what is good."

Why it lands — It is an imperative, not a suggestion: the reader is told to actively select what occupies their mind. The verse treats thought as a trainable faculty, not a passive stream.

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

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.

Cross-references

James 3:17 But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere.
Titus 2:7 In everything, show yourself to be an example by doing good works. In your teaching show integrity, dignity,
Romans 12:9 Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good.
2 Corinthians 8:21 For we are taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord, but also in the eyes of men.
Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
1 Thessalonians 5:21 but test all things. Hold fast to what is good.
2 Peter 1:3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.
Ephesians 5:9 for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth.
Hebrews 13:18 Pray for us; we are convinced that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.
1 Timothy 4:12 Let no one despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.