New Testament
Philippians 1:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
because of your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;
Compare translations
For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;
What Philippians 1:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul expresses gratitude to the Philippians for their partnership in spreading the gospel. He highlights that their commitment to the message of Christ has been consistent since the very beginning of their relationship. This fellowship refers not only to their shared beliefs but also to their active participation in supporting the ministry through prayers, financial contributions, and encouragement. Paul emphasizes the importance of community in faith, showing that their collective efforts have played a significant role in advancing the gospel. Their ongoing support has been a source of joy and strength for Paul, reinforcing the idea that believers are called to work together in unity for the sake of the gospel. This verse serves as a reminder of the value of collaboration in faith and the impact it can have on the growth of the church and the spread of the good news.
How to apply Philippians 1:5 to your life
We can learn from this verse the importance of being active participants in our faith communities. Supporting one another in sharing the gospel can take many forms, such as volunteering, praying for each other, or providing financial assistance. Our collective efforts can significantly impact the spread of the message of Christ.
Curated for this public verse page. Philippians Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Philippians 1:5
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Philippians 1:5
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Philippians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 61
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Philippi
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Philippians 1:5 mean by 'fellowship in the gospel'?
In Philippians 1:5, 'fellowship in the gospel' refers to the partnership and shared commitment of the Philippians in spreading the message of Christ. This includes their active involvement in supporting Paul’s ministry through prayers, financial contributions, and encouragement. It highlights the importance of community and collaboration among believers in advancing the gospel.
How can we apply Philippians 1:5 in our lives today?
We can apply Philippians 1:5 by actively participating in our faith communities. This can involve volunteering for church activities, praying for fellow believers, or providing financial support to ministries. By working together and supporting one another, we can effectively spread the message of Christ and strengthen our community.
Why is gratitude emphasized in Philippians 1:5?
Gratitude is emphasized in Philippians 1:5 because Paul is thankful for the consistent support and partnership of the Philippians in the gospel. Their unwavering commitment brings him joy and encouragement, demonstrating the significance of mutual support in the Christian faith. It reminds us to appreciate and acknowledge the contributions of others in our spiritual journeys.
What role does community play in Philippians 1:5?
Community plays a crucial role in Philippians 1:5 as it underscores the importance of believers working together in unity for the sake of the gospel. Paul’s acknowledgment of the Philippians' fellowship illustrates how collective efforts can enhance the spread of the gospel and strengthen the church, emphasizing that faith is not just an individual journey but a shared mission.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.