Philippians 4:16
New International Version
for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need.

New Living Translation
Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once.

English Standard Version
Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.

Berean Standard Bible
For even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs again and again.

Berean Literal Bible
For even in Thessalonica, both once and twice, you sent for my needs.

King James Bible
For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.

New King James Version
For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities.

New American Standard Bible
for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs.

NASB 1995
for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs.

NASB 1977
for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs.

Legacy Standard Bible
For even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs.

Amplified Bible
for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs.

Christian Standard Bible
For even in Thessalonica you sent gifts for my need several times.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
For even in Thessalonica you sent gifts for my need several times.

American Standard Version
for even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my need.

Contemporary English Version
Even when I was in Thessalonica, you helped me more than once.

English Revised Version
for even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my need.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs twice.

Good News Translation
More than once when I needed help in Thessalonica, you sent it to me.

International Standard Version
Even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs not once, but twice.

NET Bible
For even in Thessalonica on more than one occasion you sent something for my need.

New Heart English Bible
For even in Thessalonica you sent me aid twice.

Webster's Bible Translation
For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again to my necessity.

Weymouth New Testament
because even in Thessalonica you sent several times to minister to my needs.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
For even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs again and again.

World English Bible
For even in Thessalonica you sent once and again to my need.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
because in Thessalonica also, both once and again you sent to my need;

Berean Literal Bible
For even in Thessalonica, both once and twice, you sent for my needs.

Young's Literal Translation
because also in Thessalonica, both once and again to my need ye sent;

Smith's Literal Translation
For also in Thessalonica, and once, and twice, ye sent to my necessity.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
For unto Thessalonica also you sent once and again for my use.

Catholic Public Domain Version
For you even sent to Thessalonica, once, and then a second time, for what was useful to me.

New American Bible
For even when I was at Thessalonica you sent me something for my needs, not only once but more than once.

New Revised Standard Version
For even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me help for my needs more than once.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
For even at Thessalonica you sent more than once to meet my needs.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
Because you also sent my necessities to me at Thessaloniqa, once and twice;
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
For even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent once and again to aid me in my need.

Godbey New Testament
because also in Thessalonica both once and twice you sent to my need.

Haweis New Testament
For in Thessalonica also ye sent me once, yea twice, a supply for my want.

Mace New Testament
for you sent more than once to Thessalonica to supply my occasions.

Weymouth New Testament
because even in Thessalonica you sent several times to minister to my needs.

Worrell New Testament
because even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again to my need.

Worsley New Testament
For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again to supply my wants.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Generosity of the Philippians
15And 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. 16For even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs again and again. 17Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account.…

Cross References
2 Corinthians 11:9
And when I was with you and in need, I was not a burden to anyone; for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my needs. I have refrained from being a burden to you in any way, and I will continue to do so.

Acts 16:12-15
From there we went to the Roman colony of Philippi, the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days. / On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate along the river, where it was customary to find a place of prayer. After sitting down, we spoke to the women who had gathered there. / Among those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. ...

2 Corinthians 8:1-5
Now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the churches of Macedonia. / In the terrible ordeal they suffered, their abundant joy and deep poverty overflowed into rich generosity. / For I testify that they gave according to their ability and even beyond it. Of their own accord, ...

1 Thessalonians 2:9
Surely you recall, brothers, our labor and toil. We worked night and day so that we would not be a burden to anyone while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God.

1 Thessalonians 1:7-8
As a result, you have become an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. / For not only did the message of the Lord ring out from you to Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone out to every place, so that we have no need to say anything more.

2 Corinthians 9:12-13
For this ministry of service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanksgiving to God. / Because of the proof this ministry provides, the saints will glorify God for your obedient confession of the gospel of Christ, and for the generosity of your contribution to them and to all the others.

Galatians 6:6
Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor.

Romans 15:26
For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem.

1 Corinthians 16:1-3
Now about the collection for the saints, you are to do as I directed the churches of Galatia: / On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion of his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will be needed. / Then, on my arrival, I will send letters with those you recommend to carry your gift to Jerusalem.

Acts 20:34-35
You yourselves know that these hands of mine have ministered to my own needs and those of my companions. / In everything, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

2 Thessalonians 3:8
nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. Instead, in labor and toil, we worked night and day so that we would not be a burden to any of you.

1 Timothy 5:18
For the Scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” and, “The worker is worthy of his wages.”

Proverbs 11:25
A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

Isaiah 32:8
But a noble man makes honorable plans; he stands up for worthy causes.

Malachi 3:10
Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house. Test Me in this,” says the LORD of Hosts. “See if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure.


Treasury of Scripture

For even in Thessalonica you sent once and again to my necessity.

in.

1 Thessalonians 2:9
For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.

once.

1 Thessalonians 2:18
Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.

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Aid Gift Help Minister Necessity Need Needs Once Several Thessalonica Thessaloni'ca Times Twice
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Aid Gift Help Minister Necessity Need Needs Once Several Thessalonica Thessaloni'ca Times Twice
Philippians 4
1. From particular admonitions,
4. he proceeds to general exhortations,
10. showing how he rejoiced at their generosity toward him while in prison.
19. And so he concludes with prayer and salutations.














For even while I was in Thessalonica,
Paul's reference to Thessalonica highlights the early days of his missionary journeys. Thessalonica was a major city in Macedonia, strategically located on the Via Egnatia, a key Roman road. This city was significant for trade and communication, making it an ideal location for spreading the Gospel. Paul's time in Thessalonica is documented in Acts 17:1-9, where he preached in the synagogue for three Sabbaths. Despite facing opposition, a church was established. The Philippians' support during this time underscores their commitment to Paul's mission and the spread of Christianity.

you provided for my needs
The Philippians' generosity is a testament to their spiritual maturity and understanding of Christian stewardship. In the ancient world, traveling missionaries often relied on the hospitality and support of local believers. The Philippians' actions reflect the early church's communal spirit, as seen in Acts 2:44-45, where believers shared everything they had. Their support for Paul is an example of living out the teachings of Christ, who emphasized caring for one another (Matthew 25:35-40).

again and again.
This phrase indicates the repeated and consistent nature of the Philippians' support. Their ongoing assistance suggests a deep bond between Paul and the Philippian church, characterized by mutual love and concern. This repeated giving is reminiscent of the principle of sowing and reaping found in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, where cheerful and generous giving is encouraged. The Philippians' actions serve as a model for Christian generosity and faithfulness, demonstrating the importance of supporting those who labor in the Gospel.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to the Philippians. He was a missionary and church planter who spread the Gospel throughout the Roman Empire.

2. Philippians
The recipients of the letter, the Christian community in Philippi, known for their generosity and support of Paul's ministry.

3. Thessalonica
A city in Macedonia where Paul preached the Gospel and established a church. It was during his time here that the Philippians sent him aid.

4. Philippi
A Roman colony in Macedonia, the first European city where Paul established a church. The Philippians were known for their strong faith and partnership in the Gospel.

5. Aid
The financial or material support sent by the Philippians to Paul, demonstrating their commitment to his ministry and the spread of the Gospel.
Teaching Points
Generosity in Partnership
The Philippians' repeated aid to Paul exemplifies the importance of supporting those who labor in ministry. Believers are encouraged to be generous and consistent in their support of Gospel work.

Faithful Stewardship
The Philippians' actions demonstrate faithful stewardship of resources. Christians are called to use their resources to further God's kingdom, trusting that God will provide for their needs.

Community and Fellowship
The relationship between Paul and the Philippians highlights the importance of community and fellowship in the Christian life. Believers should cultivate strong, supportive relationships within the body of Christ.

Sacrificial Giving
The Philippians' willingness to give repeatedly, even when it may have been sacrificial, serves as a model for believers to give selflessly and trust in God's provision.

Encouragement and Support
Just as the Philippians encouraged Paul through their support, Christians are called to encourage and support one another, especially those in ministry or facing challenges.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Philippians 4:16?

2. How does Philippians 4:16 demonstrate the importance of supporting fellow believers financially?

3. What can we learn from the Philippians' generosity in Philippians 4:16?

4. How does Philippians 4:16 connect with 2 Corinthians 9:7 about cheerful giving?

5. How can we apply the Philippians' example of giving to our church community?

6. What motivates you to support ministry efforts as seen in Philippians 4:16?

7. How does Philippians 4:16 reflect the early church's support for missionary work?

8. What historical context influenced Paul's relationship with the Philippians in Philippians 4:16?

9. How does Philippians 4:16 demonstrate the importance of generosity in Christian communities?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Philippians 4?

11. What is the significance of the Church in Philippi?

12. Is Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs based on the Bible?

13. Philippians 4:19 promises God will supply all needs--why do believers worldwide still experience poverty and suffering?

14. Luke 12:31 promises that those who seek the kingdom of God will have their needs provided. Why, then, do many devoted believers still experience hardship and lack?
What Does Philippians 4:16 Mean
For even

Paul begins with a small phrase that carries big weight. “For even” points back to the unique partnership the Philippians had formed with him (Philippians 4:15, “no church but you partnered with me in the matter of giving and receiving”). This isn’t casual acknowledgment; it is an affirmation that their generosity stood out among all congregations. Just as 2 Corinthians 11:9 notes that the Macedonian believers supplied what was lacking, Paul highlights that the Philippians’ aid was exceptional, timely, and Spirit-led.


while I was in Thessalonica

Paul had only recently planted the church in Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-4). Even in those fledgling days, he chose to work with his own hands so as not to burden anyone (1 Thessalonians 2:9), yet the Philippians stepped in to help. Their gift traveled a hundred miles across rough Roman roads—clear evidence that distance never dampens genuine gospel partnership. Acts 20:34 and 2 Thessalonians 3:8 show Paul regularly laboring to meet his needs, but here God met those needs through friends who refused to wait for perfect circumstances.


you provided for my needs

The phrase is personal and practical. Paul does not mention luxuries. He speaks of needs: food, lodging, travel expenses. Scripture consistently underscores the legitimacy of supporting gospel workers—“the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:14). Luke 10:7 affirms, “the worker is worthy of his wages.” The Philippians recognized this principle and acted on it, illustrating James 2:15-16 in reverse—they did not merely bless Paul with words; they backed their concern with material help.


again and again

Generosity wasn’t a one-time impulse. It became a pattern, echoing Proverbs 3:27-28, “Do not withhold good from the deserving when it is within your power to act.” Their repeated giving mirrors the early church’s rhythm in Acts 4:34-35, where needs were met continually. 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 praises the Macedonian churches (including Philippi) for giving “beyond their ability … of their own accord.” Such persistence reflects God’s own faithful provision (Lamentations 3:22-23) and anticipates Paul’s promise in Philippians 4:19, “my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”


summary

Philippians 4:16 showcases a real-world portrait of gospel partnership: believers who refuse to let distance, inconvenience, or repetition dull their generosity. Their faithful support met Paul’s tangible needs, fueled the spread of the gospel, and displayed the character of Christ. We learn that God entrusts resources to His people so they can repeatedly, intentionally, and cheerfully supply the needs of those who labor for Him—confident that He will, in turn, supply every need they have.

(16) Even in Thessalonica.--Not only after he left Macedonia, but even before that time, when he had just passed from Philippi to Thessalonica. At Thessalonica, as at Corinth--both very rich and luxurious communities--he refused maintenance, and lived mainly by the labour of his own hands (1Thessalonians 2:9; 2Thessalonians 3:8). But it appears from this passage that even then he received "once and again" (that is, occasionally, "once or twice") some aid from Philippi "to supply his need"--that is (as in all right exercise of liberality), to supplement, and not to supersede, his own resources.

Verse 16. - For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. This shows the promptness of their generosity; they not only helped him when he departed from Macedonia; but, before that time, while he was still at Thessalonica, the city which he visited next after leaving Philippi, they sent more than once to supply his needs; Comp. 1 Thessalonians 2:9 and 2 Thessalonians 2:8, where St. Paul says that he avoided being chargeable to the Thessalonians; for which purpose he labored with his own hands; but, it seems, he needed additional help, and this was supplied from Philippi.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
For
ὅτι (hoti)
Conjunction
Strong's 3754: Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.

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

[while I was] in
ἐν (en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.

Thessalonica,
Θεσσαλονίκῃ (Thessalonikē)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 2332: From Thessalos and nike; Thessalonice, a place in Asia Minor.

you provided
ἐπέμψατε (epempsate)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 3992: To send, transmit, permit to go, put forth.

for
εἰς (eis)
Preposition
Strong's 1519: A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.

my
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.

needs
χρείαν (chreian)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 5532: From the base of chraomai or chre; employment, i.e. An affair; also occasion, demand, requirement or destitution.

once
ἅπαξ (hapax)
Adverb
Strong's 530: Once, once for all. Probably from hapas; one time.

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

again.
δὶς (dis)
Adverb
Strong's 1364: Twice, entirely, utterly. Adverb from duo; twice.


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NT Letters: Philippians 4:16 For even in Thessalonica you sent once (Philipp. Phil. Php.)
Philippians 4:15
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