So you too
This phrase indicates a continuation of thought from the previous verses, where Paul discusses his own joy and sacrifice. The "you" refers to the Philippian believers, highlighting the communal aspect of the Christian faith. Paul often emphasizes unity and shared experiences within the body of Christ, as seen in other letters like 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, where he describes the church as one body with many parts.

should be glad
The call to be glad is an exhortation to adopt a mindset of joy, regardless of circumstances. This reflects a recurring theme in Paul's writings, where joy is not dependent on external situations but is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). The Philippians are encouraged to find joy in their faith and in their relationship with Paul, who is their spiritual mentor and apostle.

and rejoice
Rejoicing is a deeper expression of joy, often associated with worship and gratitude. In the cultural context of the time, rejoicing was a communal activity, often expressed in gatherings and celebrations. Paul is urging the Philippians to actively express their joy, which aligns with the biblical principle of rejoicing in the Lord always (Philippians 4:4).

with me
Paul invites the Philippians to share in his joy, despite his imprisonment. This reflects the interconnectedness of the early Christian communities, where believers supported and encouraged one another. The phrase underscores the idea of shared suffering and shared joy, a theme also found in Romans 12:15, where Paul instructs believers to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep. This mutual sharing is a reflection of the unity and love that should characterize the church.

1. Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to the Philippians. He is in prison at the time of writing, yet he expresses joy and encourages others to do the same.

2. Philippians
The recipients of the letter, a Christian community in Philippi, a city in Macedonia. They are known for their strong faith and support of Paul's ministry.

3. Philippi
A Roman colony and a significant city in Macedonia, where Paul established one of the first Christian communities in Europe.

4. Timothy
Mentioned earlier in the chapter, he is a close companion of Paul and is being sent to the Philippians to encourage them.

5. Epaphroditus
A member of the Philippian church who brought gifts to Paul and is mentioned later in the chapter as someone who risked his life for the work of Christ.Joy in Unity
Paul emphasizes the importance of rejoicing together as a community. This unity in joy strengthens the body of Christ and reflects the love of God.

Rejoicing in Trials
Despite his imprisonment, Paul finds reasons to rejoice. This teaches us that joy is not dependent on our circumstances but on our relationship with Christ.

Encouragement to Others
By encouraging the Philippians to rejoice with him, Paul sets an example of how we can uplift others by sharing our joy and faith.

The Role of Sacrifice
The context of Philippians 2 highlights Christ's humility and sacrifice. Our joy should be rooted in the understanding of Christ's work and our willingness to serve others.

Spiritual Growth through Joy
Rejoicing in the Lord fosters spiritual growth and maturity, helping us to develop a Christ-like character.(18) Do ye joy . . .--The Epistle lays great stress on joy, not only as a privilege, but as a duty, following from Christian faith and proving its reality. Joy is in itself natural in the first thoughts of childhood and youth; it is apt to be chequered or even destroyed by the second thoughts of fuller experience of life, as darkened by suffering, sin, and death; but in the third and deepest thoughts of the Christian, recognising these darker elements of life, but knowing that they were not in the beginning, and shall not be in the end, joy comes back, solemnised but deepened into thankfulness. A Christianity which has no power to rejoice, either in flashes of joy amidst tribulation, or, better still, in the calm steady light of cheerfulness, may be true, but is imperfect. It has not yet entered into the promise given by our Lord Himself of the "joy which no man taketh from us" (John 16:22).

Verse 18. - For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me; or, as R.V., in the manner. Their joy is to be like his, to mingle with his joy. The second clause may be rendered, as in Ver. 17, "and congratulate me."

Parallel Commentaries ...


So
αὐτὸ (auto)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Neuter 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.

you
ὑμεῖς (hymeis)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

too
καὶ (kai)
Conjunction
Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely.

should be glad
χαίρετε (chairete)
Verb - Present Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 5463: A primary verb; to be 'cheer'ful, i.e. Calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation, be well.

and
καὶ (kai)
Conjunction
Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely.

rejoice with
συνχαίρετέ (synchairete)
Verb - Present Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4796: To rejoice with, congratulate. From sun and chairo; to sympathize in gladness, congratulate.

me.
μοι (moi)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1473: I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.


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NT Letters: Philippians 2:18 In the same way you also rejoice (Philipp. Phil. Php.)