Lexical Summary megalós: Great, large, mighty, important Original Word: μεγάλος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance greatly. Adverb from megas; much -- greatly. see GREEK megas NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originadverb from megas Definition greatly NASB Translation greatly (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 3171: μεγάλωςμεγάλως, adverb,greatly: Philippians 4:10. (From Homer down.) Topical Lexicon Singular Occurrence and Scriptural Setting Strong’s Greek 3171 (μεγάλως) appears once in the New Testament, in Philippians 4:10. Paul writes, “I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has revived; indeed you were concerned, but you lacked opportunity”. The adverb intensifies Paul’s expression of joy, underscoring the magnitude of his gratitude for the renewed support from the Philippian believers. Amplified Joy in Partnership The word’s solitary use heightens its force: Paul’s joy is not casual but overflowing. Throughout Philippians, joy is tied to gospel partnership (Philippians 1:3–5; Philippians 2:17–18; Philippians 4:1). In 4:10 the heightened rejoicing springs from tangible evidence of the Philippians’ continuing fellowship with him in the work of Christ, revealing that Christian giving is a shared ministry rather than mere charity. Historical Background of the Philippian Gift Philippi, a Roman colony in Macedonia, first encountered the gospel through Paul’s second missionary journey (Acts 16:12–40). The congregation quickly became known for generosity (2 Corinthians 8:1–5). A decade later, Paul writes from imprisonment in Rome (Philippians 1:13) having received a gift through Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:25). Their support meets his material needs, but more importantly reaffirms spiritual solidarity. Μεγάλως showcases how deeply such fellowship heartens a servant of the gospel. Integration with Pauline Theology of Contentment Immediately after Philippians 4:10, Paul clarifies, “I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances” (Philippians 4:11). The intensified joy of verse 10 does not contradict contentment; it complements it. Paul can thrive in plenty or want (Philippians 4:12) because Christ strengthens him (Philippians 4:13). Yet when believers demonstrate love, that content servant still rejoices greatly. Μεγάλως therefore illustrates how godly contentment and exuberant gratitude coexist. Echoes of Old Testament Expressions of Great Rejoicing Hebrew Scripture regularly portrays “great rejoicing” in response to divine deliverance (Nehemiah 12:43; Psalm 21:1). Paul, steeped in those texts, now applies similar language to Christian fellowship. The continuity affirms that the same God who elicited Israel’s gladness now fuels apostolic joy through the church’s sacrificial giving. Practical Applications for Contemporary Ministry 1. Encouragement: Faithful support of gospel workers produces deep, God-honoring joy. Doctrinal Observations • Divine Providence: The timing—“now at last”—highlights God’s orchestration of opportunities (Philippians 4:10). Related New Testament Passages Reflecting Similar Intensification Though μεγαλῶς is unique, comparable expressions of abundant rejoicing include: These parallels reveal a consistent biblical theme: heightened joy accompanies recognition of God’s work—whether in incarnation, salvation, or gospel partnership. Summary Μεγάλως in Philippians 4:10 magnifies the apostle’s joy over the Philippians’ revived concern, highlighting the spiritual depth of Christian generosity, the harmony of contentment and gratitude, and the enduring pattern of God-centered rejoicing that unites Old and New Testament believers. Forms and Transliterations μεγαλως μεγάλως megalos megalōs megálos megálōsLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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