What does Philippians 1:5 Mean?

Verse Meaning

The reason Paul was always joyful as he prayed for the Philippians was their participation (NASB) or partnership (NIV, lit. fellowship, Gr. koinonia) in the gospel. [source][source]

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"It does not take much reading of Paul"s letters to recognize that the gospel is the singular passion of his life; that passion is the glue that in particular holds this letter together. By "the gospel," especially in Philippians , Paul refers primarily neither to a body of teaching nor to proclamation. Above all, the gospel has to do with Christ, both his person and his work." ^[1] [source]

The fellowship in view, as the use of this word in the New Testament indicates, means sharing together with mutual activity and mutual benefit in a close bond. ^[2] Partnership in the gospel includes partnership with God and with other believers that the gospel makes possible. It also involves participation in the work of getting the gospel to people. The Philippians had recently sent Paul a gift ( Philippians 4:10-14) and had done so more than once before ( Philippians 4:16; 2 Corinthians 11:9). Even in Philippi he had received hospitality from Lydia ( Acts 16:15) and the Philippian jailer ( Acts 16:33-34). However, Paul"s use of koinonia here implies a broader meaning than just physical assistance. It probably includes all that Paul and his readers shared as committed Christians who sought to disseminate the gospel. [source][source]

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"Paul"s letter to the Philippians can be ranked as the second most important source for study of the biblical principles of financial stewardship. Only2Corinthians8 , 9 provide a more extensive discussion of the topic." ^[3] [source]

"We today might take the lesson to heart that the sign of our professed love for the gospel is the measure of sacrifice we are prepared to make in order to help in its progress. We rejoice that we have come to know the Saviour. What are we doing to make Him known to others?" ^[4] [source]

Context Summary

It is exceedingly difficult to compress this Epistle, which is the tenderest and most personal of them all. Every word merits consideration; every paragraph is full of linked sweetness long drawn out. In the opening verses we are taught that we may further the gospel, not only by direct efforts, but by helping those who, like the Apostle, are devoted to its spread. From the early beginnings of their friendship, this Church had never faltered in its loving gifts, which Paul sought to repay with prayers on their behalf. He regarded them as comrades fighting the same enemy, on the same field, and sharing in the same grace.

The Apostle's confidence that whatever God begins will have its perfect end, Philippians 1:6, is very reassuring. This is what we need, though we must not take it for granted apart from faith and prayer. Each of the Epistles has its "collect," its comprehensive prayer offered in the name of Christ. This one is especially beautiful. Abounding love will lead to increased knowledge; and this to quicker discrimination between things that differ, however similar they may appear; and this, in turn, to freedom from blame and offense. And all will result in the fruit of a holy life, pleasing to Jesus and bringing glory and praise to God. [source]

Chapter Summary: Philippians 1

¹  Paul testifies his thankfulness to God, and his love toward the Philippians,
⁹  daily praying for their increase in grace;
¹²  he shows what good the faith of Christ had received by his troubles at Rome;
²¹  and how ready he is to glorify Christ either by his life or death;
²⁷  exhorting them to unity;
²⁸  and to fortitude in persecution