Philippians
Chapter 1

1 1 Paul and Timothy, slaves 2 of Christ Jesus, to all the holy ones in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the overseers and ministers:

基督耶稣的仆人保禄和弟茂德，致书给斐理伯的众位在基督耶稣内的圣徒、监督及执事；

2 grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3

愿恩宠与平安由天主我们的父和主耶稣基督赐与你们！

3 4 I give thanks to my God at every remembrance of you,

我一想起你们，就感谢我的天主；

4 praying always with joy in my every prayer for all of you,

我每次祈祷，总怀着喜悦为你们众位祈祷，

5 because of your partnership for the gospel from the first day until now.

因为你们从最初的一天直到现在，就协助了宣传福音的工作；

6 I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work in you will continue to complete it until the day of Christ Jesus. 5

我深信，在你们内开始这美好工作的那位，必予以完成，直到耶稣基督的日子。

7 It is right that I should think this way about all of you, because I hold you in my heart, you who are all partners with me in grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel.

我这样想念你们众人，是理当的，因为我在心内常怀念你们，不论我带锁链，或辩护或确证福音时，你们常参与了我受的恩宠。

8 For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.

天主为我作证：我是怎样以基督耶稣的情怀爱你们众人。

9 And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception,

我所祈求的是：愿你们的爱德日渐增长，满渥真知识和各种识见，

10 to discern what is of value, so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,

使你们能辨别卓绝之事，为叫你们直到基督的日子，常是洁净无瑕的，

11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God.

赖耶稣基督满结义德的果实，为光荣赞美天主。

12 6 I want you to know, brothers, that my situation has turned out rather to advance the gospel,

弟兄们！我愿意告诉你们，我的环境对于福音的进展反而更有了益处，

13 so that my imprisonment has become well known in Christ throughout the whole praetorium 7 and to all the rest,

以致御营全军和其余众人都明明知道，我带锁链是为基督的缘故；

14 8 and so that the majority of the brothers, having taken encouragement in the Lord from my imprisonment, dare more than ever to proclaim the word fearlessly.

并且大多数的弟兄，因见我带锁链，就依靠主，更敢讲论天主的道理，一点也不害怕。

15 Of course, some preach Christ from envy and rivalry, others from good will.

有些人宣讲基督，固然是出于嫉妒和竞争，有些人却是出于善意；

16 The latter act out of love, aware that I am here for the defense of the gospel;

这些出于爱的人，知道我是被立为护卫福音的；

17 the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not from pure motives, thinking that they will cause me trouble in my imprisonment.

那些出于私见宣传基督的人，目的不纯正，想要给我的锁链更增添烦恼。

18 What difference does it make, as long as in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is being proclaimed? And in that I rejoice. 9 Indeed I shall continue to rejoice,

那有什么妨碍呢？无论如何，或是假意，或是诚心，终究是宣传了基督。为此，如今我喜欢，将来我仍然要喜欢，

19 10 for I know that this will result in deliverance for me 11 through your prayers and support from the Spirit of Jesus Christ.

因为我知道，赖你们的祈祷和耶稣基督的圣神的辅助，这事必有利于我的得救。

20 My eager expectation and hope is that I shall not be put to shame in any way, but that with all boldness, now as always, Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.

按照我所热切期待希望的，我在任何事上必不会蒙羞，所以现在和从前一样，我反而放心大胆，我或生或死，总要叫基督在我身上受颂扬。

21 For to me life is Christ, and death is gain.

因为在我看来，生活原是基督，死亡乃是利益。

22 If I go on living in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. And I do not know which I shall choose.

但如果生活在肉身内，我还能获得工作的效果：我现在选择那一样，我自己也不知道。

23 I am caught between the two. I long to depart this life and be with Christ, (for) that is far better.

我正夹在两者之间：我渴望求解脱而与基督同在一起：这实在是再好没有了；

24 Yet that I remain (in) the flesh is more necessary for your benefit.

但存留在肉身内，对你们却十分重要。

25 And this I know with confidence, that I shall remain and continue in the service of all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,

我确信不疑：我知道我必要存留，且必要为你们众人存留于世，为使你们在信德上，得到进展和喜乐，

26 so that your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound on account of me when I come to you again.

并使你们因着我再来到你们中，同我在基督耶稣内更加欢跃。

27 12 Only, conduct yourselves in a way worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that, whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear news of you, that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind struggling together for the faith of the gospel,

你们生活度日只应合乎基督的福音，好叫我或来看望你们，或不在时，听到关于你们的事，而知道你们仍保持同一的精神，一心一意为福音的信仰共同奋斗，

28 not intimidated in any way by your opponents. This is proof to them of destruction, but of your salvation. And this is God's doing.

一点也不为敌人所吓住：这样证明了他们必将丧亡，你们必将得救，因为这是出于天主，

29 For to you has been granted, for the sake of Christ, not only to believe in him but also to suffer for him.

因为，为了基督的缘故，赐给你们的恩赐，不但是为相信他，而且也是为为他受苦：

30 Yours is the same struggle as you saw in me and now hear about me. 13

就是要遭受你们曾在我身上所见的，及如今由我所听到的同样的决斗。



Footnotes（注解）

1 [1-2] See the note on Romans 1:1-7, concerning the greeting.

2 [1] Slaves: Paul usually refers to himself at the start of a letter as an apostle. Here he substitutes a term suggesting the unconditional obligation of himself and Timothy to the service of Christ, probably because, in view of the good relationship with the Philippians, he wishes to stress his status as a co-servant rather than emphasize his apostolic authority. Reference to Timothy is a courtesy: Paul alone writes the letter, as the singular verb throughout shows (Philippians 1:3-26), and the reference (Philippians 2:19-24) to Timothy in the third person. Overseers: the Greek t, erm episkopos literally means "one who oversees" or "one who supervises," but since the second century it has come to designate the "bishop," the official who heads a local church. In New Testament times this office had not yet developed into the form that it later assumed, though it seems to be well on the way to such development in the Pastorals; see 1 Tim 3:2 and Titus 1:7, where it is translated bishop. At Philippi, however (and at Ephesus, according to Acts 20:28), there was more than one episkopos, and the precise function of these officials is uncertain. In order to distinguish this office from the later stages into which it developed, the term is here translated as overseers. Ministers: the Greek term diakonoi is used frequently in the New Testament to designate "servants," "attendants," or "ministers." Paul refers to himself and to other apostles as "ministers of God" (2 Cor 6:4) or "ministers of Christ" (2 Cor 11:23). In the Pastorals (1 Tim 3:8, 12) the diakonos has become an established official in the local church; hence the term is there translated as deacon. The diakonoi at Philippi seem to represent an earlier stage of development of the office; we are uncertain about their precise functions. Hence the term is here translated as ministers. See Romans 16:1, where Phoebe is described as a diakonos (minister) of the church of Cenchreae. 1, 2: The gifts come from Christ the Lord, not simply through him from the Father; compare the christology in Philippians 2:6-11.

3 [2] The gifts come from Christ the Lord, not simply through him from the Father; compare the christology in Philippians 2:6-11.

4 [3-11] As in Romans 1:8-15 and all the Pauline letters except Galatians, a thanksgiving follows, including a direct prayer for the Philippians (Philippians 1:9-11); see the note on Romans 1:8. On their partnership for the gospel (Philippians 1:5), cf Philippians 1:29-30; 4:10-20. Their devotion to the faith and to Paul made them his pride and joy (Philippians 4:1). The characteristics thus manifested are evidence of the community's continuing preparation for the Lord's parousia (Philippians 1:6, 10). Paul's especially warm relationship with the Philippians is suggested here (Philippians 1:7-8) as elsewhere in the letter. The eschatology serves to underscore a concern for ethical growth (Eph 1:9-11), which appears throughout the letter.

5 [6] The day of Christ Jesus: the parousia or triumphant return of Christ, when those loyal to him will be with him and share in his eternal glory; cf Philippians 1:10; 2:16; 3:20-21; 1 Thes 4:17; 5:10; 2 Thes 1:10; 1 Cor 1:8.

6 [12-26] The body of the letter begins with an account of Paul's present situation, i.e., his imprisonment (Philippians 1:12-13; see Introduction), and then goes on with advice for the Philippians (Philippians 1:27-2:18). The advance of the gospel (Philippians 1:12) and the progress of the Philippians in the faith (Philippians 1:25) frame what is said.

7 [13] Praetorium: either the praetorian guard in the city where Paul was imprisoned or the governor's official residence in a Roman province (cf Mark 15:16; Acts 23:35). See Introduction on possible sites.

8 [14-18] Although Paul is imprisoned, Christians there nonetheless go on preaching Christ. But they do so with varied motives, some with personal hostility toward Paul, others out of personal ambition.

9 [18] Rejoice: a major theme in the letter; see Introduction.

10 [19-25] Paul earnestly debates his prospects of martyrdom or continued missionary labor. While he may long to depart this life and thus be with Christ (Philippians 1:23), his overall and final expectation is that he will be delivered from this imprisonment and continue in the service of the Philippians and of others (Philippians 1:19, 25; Philippians 2:24). In either case, Christ is central (Philippians 1:20- 21); if to live means Christ for Paul, death means to be united with Christ in a deeper sense.

11 [19] Result in deliverance for me: an echo of Job 13:16, hoping that God will turn suffering to ultimate good and deliverance from evil.

12 [27-30] Ethical admonition begins at this early point in the letter, emphasizing steadfastness and congregational unity in the face of possible suffering. The opponents (Philippians 1:28) are those in Philippi, probably pagans, who oppose the gospel cause. This is proof . . . (Philippians 1:28) may refer to the whole outlook and conduct of the Philippians, turning out for their salvation but to the judgment of the opponents (cf 2 Cor 2:15-16), or possibly the sentence refers to the opinion of the opponents, who hold that the obstinacy of the Christians points to the destruction of such people as defy Roman authority (though in reality, Paul holds, such faithfulness leads to salvation).

13 [30] A reference to Paul's earlier imprisonment in Philippi (Acts 16:19-24; 1 Thes 2:2) and to his present confinement.

Philippians
Chapter 2

1 1 If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy,

所以，如果你们在基督内获得了鼓励，爱的劝勉，圣神的交往，哀怜和同情，

2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing.

你们就应彼此意见一致，同气相爱，同心合意，思念同样的事，以满全我的喜乐。

3 Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves,

不论做什么，不从私见，也不求虚荣，只存心谦下，彼此该想自己不如人；

4 each looking out not for his own interests, but (also) everyone for those of others.

各人不可只顾自己的事，也该顾及别人的事。

5 Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus, 2

你们该怀有基督耶稣所怀有的心情：

6 Who, 3 though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. 4

他虽具有天主的形体，并没有以自己与天主同等，为应当把持不舍的，

7 Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; 5 and found human in appearance,

却使自己空虚，取了奴仆的形体，与人相似，形状也一见如人；

8 he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. 6

他贬抑自己，听命至死，且死在十字架上。

9 Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name 7 that is above every name,

为此，天主极其举扬他，赐给了他一个名字，超越其它所有的名字，

10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, 8 of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

致使上天、地上和地下的一切，一听到耶稣的名字，无不屈膝叩拜；

11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, 9 to the glory of God the Father.

一切唇舌无不明认耶稣基督是主，以光荣天主圣父。

12 10 11 So then, my beloved, obedient as you have always been, not only when I am present but all the more now when I am absent, work out your salvation with fear and trembling. 12

为此，我可爱的，就如你们常常听了命，不但我与你们同在的时候，就是如今不在的时候，你们更应该听命。你们要怀着恐惧战憟，努力成就你们得救的事，

13 For God is the one who, for his good purpose, works in you both to desire and to work.

因为是天主在你们内工作，使你们愿意，并使你们力行，为成就衪的善意。

14 Do everything without grumbling or questioning,

你们做一切事，总不可抱怨，也不可争论，

15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, 13 among whom you shine like lights in the world,

好使你们成为无可指摘和纯洁的，在乖僻败坏的世代中，做天主无瑕的子女；在世人中你们应放光明，有如字宙间的明星，

16 as you hold on to the word of life, so that my boast for the day of Christ may be that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.

将生命的话显耀出来，使我到基督的日子，有可自夸的，那我就没有白跑，也没有徒劳。

17 But, even if I am poured out as a libation 14 upon the sacrificial service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with all of you.

既使我应在你们信德的祭祀和供献上奠我的血，我也喜欢，且与你们众位一同喜欢；

18 In the same way you also should rejoice and share your joy with me.

同样，你们也该喜欢，也该与我一同喜欢。

19 15 I hope, in the Lord Jesus, to send Timothy 16 to you soon, so that I too may be heartened by hearing news of you.

我在主耶稣内希望不久打发弟茂德到你们那里去，好叫我知道你们的事而放心。

20 For I have no one comparable to him for genuine interest in whatever concerns you.

实在，我没有一个像他那样诚心关照你们的人，

21 For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.

因为其它的人都谋求自己的事，而不谋求基督耶稣的事。

22 But you know his worth, how as a child with a father he served along with me in the cause of the gospel.

至于他，你们知道他所受过的考验，他对我如同儿子对待父亲一样，与我一同从事了福音的工作。

23 He it is, then, whom I hope to send as soon as I see how things go with me,

所以，我希望，几时我一看出我的事怎样了结，就立即打发他去；

24 but I am confident in the Lord that I myself will also come soon. 17

并且在主内我自信，我自己也快去。

25 With regard to Epaphroditus, 18 my brother and co-worker and fellow soldier, your messenger and minister in my need, I consider it necessary to send him to you.

再者，我以为必须把我的弟兄、同事和战友，即你们派来为供给我的急需的使者，厄帕洛狄托给你们打发回去，

26 For he has been longing for all of you and was distressed because you heard that he was ill.

因为他常想念你们众人，又因你们听说他病了，他更为心焦。

27 He was indeed ill, close to death; but God had mercy on him, not just on him but also on me, so that I might not have sorrow upon sorrow.

实在，他曾病得几乎要死；但天主可怜了他，不但他，而且也可怜了我，免得我愁上加愁。

28 I send him therefore with the greater eagerness, so that, on seeing him, you may rejoice again, and I may have less anxiety.

那么，我尽速打发他回去，好叫你们看见他再感到喜乐，而我也减少忧苦。

29 Welcome him then in the Lord with all joy and hold such people in esteem,

所以你们应该在主内满心喜欢接待他；像这样的人，你们应当尊敬，

30 because for the sake of the work of Christ he came close to death, risking his life to make up for those services to me that you could not perform.

因为他为了基督的工作，曾冒性命的危险，接近了死亡，为弥补你们未能事奉我的亏缺。



Footnotes（注解）

1 [1-11] The admonition to likemindedness and unity (Philippians 2:2-5) is based on the believers' threefold experience with Christ, God's love, and the Spirit. The appeal to humility (Philippians 2:3) and to obedience (Philippians 2:12) is rooted in christology, specifically in a statement about Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:6-11) and his humbling of self and obedience to the point of death (Philippians 2:8).

2 [5] Have . . . the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus: or, "that also Christ Jesus had." While it is often held that Christ here functions as a model for moral imitation, it is not the historical Jesus but the entire Christ event that Philippians 2:6-11 depict. Therefore, the appeal is to have in relations among yourselves that same relationship you have in Jesus Christ, i.e., serving one another as you serve Christ (Philippians 2:4).

3 [6-11] Perhaps an early Christian hymn quoted here by Paul. The short rhythmic lines fall into two parts, Philippians 2:6-8 where the subject of every verb is Christ, and Philippians 2:9-11 where the subject is God. The general pattern is thus of Christ's humiliation and then exaltation. More precise analyses propose a division into six three-line stanzas (Philippians 2:6, 7abc, 7d-8, 9, 10, 11) or into three stanzas (Philippians 2:6-7ab, 7cd-8, 9-11). Phrases such as even death on a cross (Philippians 2:8c) are considered by some to be additions (by Paul) to the hymn, as are Philippians 2:10c, 11c.

4 [6] Either a reference to Christ's preexistence and those aspects of divinity that he was willing to give up in order to serve in human form, or to what the man Jesus refused to grasp at to attain divinity. Many see an allusion to the Genesis story: unlike Adam, Jesus, though . . . in the form of God (Genesis 1:26-27), did not reach out for equality with God, in contrast with the first Adam in Genesis 3:5-6.

5 [7] Taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness: or ". . . taking the form of a slave. Coming in human likeness, and found human in appearance." While it is common to take Philippians 2:6, 7 as dealing with Christ's preexistence and Philippians 2:8 with his incarnate life, so that lines Philippians 2:7b, 7c are parallel, it is also possible to interpret so as to exclude any reference to preexistence (see the note on Philippians 2:6) and to take Philippians 2:6-8 as presenting two parallel stanzas about Jesus' human state (Philippians 2:6-7b; 7cd-8); in the latter alternative, coming in human likeness begins the second stanza and parallels 6a to some extent.

6 [8] There may be reflected here language about the servant of the Lord, Isaiah 52:13-53:12 especially Isaiah 53:12.

7 [9] The name: "Lord" (Philippians 2:11), revealing the true nature of the one who is named.

8 [10-11] Every knee should bend . . . every tongue confess: into this language of Isaiah 45:23 there has been inserted a reference to the three levels in the universe, according to ancient thought, heaven, earth, under the earth.

9 [11] Jesus Christ is Lord: a common early Christian acclamation; cf 1 Cor 12:3; Romans 10:9. But doxology to God the Father is not overlooked here (Philippians 2:11c) in the final version of the hymn.

10 [12] Fear and trembling: a common Old Testament expression indicating awe and seriousness in the service of God (cf Exodus 15:16; Judith 2:28; Psalm 2:11; Isaiah 19:16).

11 [12-18] Paul goes on to draw out further ethical implications for daily life (Philippians 2:14-18) from the salvation God works in Christ.

12 [12] Fear and trembling: a common Old Testament expression indicating awe and seriousness in the service of God (cf Exodus 15:16; Judith 2:28; Psalm 2:11; Isaiah 19:16).

13 [15-16] Generation . . . as you hold on to . . . : or ". . . generation. Among them shine like lights in the world because you hold the word of life. . . ."

14 [17] Libation: in ancient religious ritual, the pouring out on the ground of a liquid offering as a sacrifice. Paul means that he may be facing death.

15 [2:19-3:1] The plans of Paul and his assistants for future travel are regularly a part of a Pauline letter near its conclusion; cf Romans 15:22-29; 1 Cor 16:5-12.

16 [19] Timothy: already known to the Philippians (Acts 16:1-15; cf 1 Cor 4:17; 16:10).

17 [24] I myself will also come soon: cf Philippians 1:19-25 for the significance of this statement.

18 [25] Epaphroditus: sent by the Philippians as their messenger (literally, "apostle") to aid Paul in his imprisonment, he had fallen seriously ill; Paul commends him as he sends him back to Philippi.

Philippians
Chapter 3

1 Finally, my brothers, rejoice 1 in the Lord. Writing the same things to you is no burden for me but is a safeguard for you.

此外，我的弟兄们！你们应喜乐于主；给你们写一样的事，为我并不烦难，为你们却是安全。

2 2 3 Beware of the dogs! Beware of the evil workers! Beware of the mutilation! 4

你们要提防狗，要提防邪恶的工人，要提防自行割切的人。

3 For we are the circumcision, 5 we who worship through the Spirit of God, who boast in Christ Jesus and do not put our confidence in flesh,

其实，真受割损的人是我们，因为我们是以天主的圣神实行敬礼，在耶稣基督内自豪，而不信赖外表的人，

4 although I myself have grounds for confidence even in the flesh.If anyone else thinks he can be confident in flesh, all the more can I.

虽然我对外表也有可信赖的。如果有人以为自己能将信赖放在外表上，那我更可以：

5 Circumcised on the eighth day, 6 of the race of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrew parentage, in observance of the law a Pharisee,

我生后第八天受了割损，出于以色列民族，属于本雅明支派，是由希伯来人所生的希伯来人；就法律说，我是法利赛人；

6 in zeal I persecuted the church, in righteousness based on the law I was blameless.

就热忱说，我曾迫害过教会；就法律的正义说，是无瑕可指的。

7 (But) whatever gains I had, these I have come to consider a loss 7 because of Christ.

凡以前对我有利益的事，我如今为了基督，都看作是损失。

8 More than that, I even consider everything as a loss because of the supreme good of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have accepted the loss of all things and I consider them so much rubbish, that I may gain Christ

不但如此，而且我将一切都看作损失，因为我只以认识我主基督耶稣为至宝；为了衪，我自愿损失一切，拿一切当废物，为赚得基督，

9 and be found in him, not having any righteousness of my own based on the law but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God, depending on faith

为结合于他，并非借我因守法律获得的正义，而是借由于信仰基督获得的正义，即出于天主而本于信德的正义。

10 to know him and the power of his resurrection and (the) sharing of his sufferings by being conformed to his death,

我只愿认识基督和他复活的德能，参与他的苦难相似他的死，

11 if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead.

我希望也得到由死者中的复活。

12 8 It is not that I have already taken hold of it or have already attained perfect maturity, 9 but I continue my pursuit in hope that I may possess it, since I have indeed been taken possession of by Christ (Jesus).

这并不是说：我已经达到这目标，或已成为成全的人；我只顾向前跑，看看是否我也能够夺得，因为基督耶稣已夺得了我。

13 Brothers, I for my part do not consider myself to have taken possession. Just one thing: forgetting what lies behind but straining forward to what lies ahead,

弟兄们！我并不以为我已经夺得，我只顾一件事：即忘尽我背后的，只向在我前面的奔驰，

14 I continue my pursuit toward the goal, the prize of God's upward calling, in Christ Jesus.

为达到目标，为争取天主在基督耶稣内召我向上争夺的奖品。

15 Let us, then, who are＂perfectly mature＂ adopt this attitude. And if you have a different attitude, this too God will reveal to you.

所以，我们凡是成熟的人，都应怀有这种心情；即使你们另有别种心情，天主也要将这种心情启示给你们。

16 Only, with regard to what we have attained, continue on the same course. 10

但是，不拘我们已达到什么程度，仍应照样进行。

17 11 Join with others in being imitators of me, 12 brothers, and observe those who thus conduct themselves according to the model you have in us.

弟兄们！你们要一同效法我，也要注意那些按我们的表样生活行动的人，

18 For many, as I have often told you and now tell you even in tears, conduct themselves as enemies of the cross of Christ.

因为有许多人，我曾多次对你们说过，如今再含泪对你们说：他们行事为人，是基督十字架的敌人；

19 Their end is destruction. Their God is their stomach; their glory is in their＂shame.＂ Their minds are occupied with earthly things.

他们的结局是丧亡，他们的天主是肚腹，以羞辱为光荣，只恩念地上的事。

20 But our citizenship 13 is in heaven, and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

至于我们，我们的家乡原是在天上，我们等待主耶稣基督我们的救主从那里降来，

21 He will change our lowly body to conform with his glorified body by the power that enables him also to bring all things into subjection to himself.

他必要按他能使一切屈服于自己的大能，改变我们卑贱的身体，相似他光荣的身体。


Footnotes(注解)

1 [1] Finally . . . rejoice: the adverb often signals the close of a letter; cf Philippians 4:8; 2 Cor 13:11. While the verb could also be translated＂good-bye＂ or＂farewell,＂ although it is never so used in Greek epistolography, the theme of joy has been frequent in the letter (Philippians 1:18; 2:2, 18); note also Philippians 4:4 and the addition of＂always＂ there as evidence for the meaning＂rejoice.＂ To write the same things may refer to what Paul has previously taught in Philippi or to what he has just written or to what follows.

2 [2-21] An abrupt change in content and tone, either because Paul at this point responds to disturbing news he has just heard about a threat to the faith of the Philippians in the form of false teachers, or because part of another Pauline letter was inserted here; see Introduction. The chapter describes these teachers in strong terms as dogs. The persons meant are evidently different from the rival preachers of Philippians 1:14-18 and the opponents of Philippians 1:28. Since Philippians 3:2-4 emphasize Jewish terms like circumcision (Philippians 3:2-3, 5), some relate them to the＂Judaizers＂ of the Letter to the Galatians. Other phrases make them appear more like the false teachers of 2 Cor 11:12-15, the evil-workers. The latter part of the chapter depicts the many who are enemies of Christ's cross in terms that may sound more Gentile or even＂gnostic＂ than Jewish (Philippians 3:18-19). Accordingly, some see two groups of false teachers in Phil 3, others one group characterized by a claim of having attained＂perfect maturity＂ (Philippians 3:12-15).

3 [2-11] Paul sets forth the Christian claim, especially using personal, autobiographical terms that are appropriate to the situation. He presents his own experience in coming to know Christ Jesus in terms of righteousness or justification (cf Romans 1:16-17; 3:21-5:11; Gal 2:5-11), contrasting the righteousness from God through faith and that of one's own based on the law as two exclusive ways of pleasing God.

4 [2] Beware of the mutilation: literally,＂incision,＂ an ironic wordplay on＂circumcision＂; cf Gal 5:12. There may be an association with the self-inflicted mutilations of the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:28) and of devotees of Cybele who slashed themselves in religious frenzy.

5 [3] We are the circumcision: the true people of God, seed and offspring of Abraham (Gal 3:7, 29; 6:15). Spirit of God: some manuscripts read＂worship God by the Spirit.＂

6 [5] Circumcised on the eighth day: as the law required (Genesis 17:12; Lev 12:3).

7 [7] Loss: his knowledge of Christ led Paul to reassess the ways of truly pleasing and serving God. His reevaluation indicates the profound and lasting effect of his experience of the meaning of Christ on the way to Damascus some twenty years before (Gal 1:15-16; Acts 9:1-22).

8 [12-16] To be taken possession of by Christ does not mean that one has already arrived at perfect spiritual maturity. Paul and the Philippians instead press on, trusting in God.

9 [12] Attained perfect maturity: possibly an echo of the concept in the mystery religions of being an initiate, admitted to divine secrets.

10 [16] Some manuscripts add, probably to explain Paul's cryptic phrase,＂thinking alike.＂

11 [17-21] Paul and those who live a life centered in Christ, envisaging both his suffering and resurrection, provide a model that is the opposite of opponents who reject Christ's cross (cf 1 Cor 1:23).

12 [17] Being imitators of me: not arrogance, but humble simplicity, since all his converts know that Paul is wholly dedicated to imitating Christ (1 Cor 11:1; cf also Philippians 4:9; 1 Thes 1:6; 2 Thes 3:7, 9; 1 Cor 4:6).

13 [20] Citizenship: Christians constitute a colony of heaven, as Philippi was a colonia of Rome (Acts 16:12). The hope Paul expresses involves the final coming of Christ, not a status already attained, such as the opponents claim.

Philippians
Chapter 4

1 1 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved.

为此，我所亲爱的和所怀念的弟兄，我的喜乐和我的冠冕，我可爱的诸位！你们应这样屹立在主内。

2 I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche 2 to come to a mutual understanding in the Lord.

我奉劝厄敖狄雅和欣提赫，要在主内有同样的心情。

3 Yes, and I ask you also, my true yokemate, 3 to help them, for they have struggled at my side in promoting the gospel, along with Clement and my other co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.

至于你，我忠诚的同伴，我也求你援助她们，因为她们曾伴随我为福音而奋斗，与克肋孟以及我的其它的同事一样，他们的名字已写在生命册上了。

4 Rejoice 4 in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!

你们在主内应当常常喜乐，我再说：你们应当喜乐！

5 Your kindness 5 should be known to all. The Lord is near.

你们的宽仁应当叫众人知道：主快来了。

6 Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God.

你们什么也不要挂虑，只在一切事上，以恳求和祈祷，怀着感谢之心，向天主呈上你们的请求；

7 Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

这样，天主那超乎各种意想的平安，必要在基督耶稣内固守你们的心思念虑。

8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 6

此外弟兄们！凡是真实的，凡是高尚的，凡是正义的，凡是纯洁的，凡是可爱的，凡是荣誉的，不管是美德，不管是称誉：这一切你们都该思念：

9 Keep on doing what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me. Then the God of peace will be with you. 7

凡你们在我身上所学得的，所领受的，所听见的，所看到的：这一切你们都该实行：这样，赐平安的天主必与你们同在。

10 8 I rejoice greatly in the Lord that now at last you revived your concern for me. You were, of course, concerned about me but lacked an opportunity.

再者，我在主内非常喜欢，因为你们对我的关心又再次表现出来，你们始终是关心我，只不过缺少表现的机会。

11 Not that I say this because of need, for I have learned, in whatever situation I find myself, to be self-sufficient.

我说这话，并不是由于贫乏，因为我已学会了，在所处的环境中常常知足。

12 I know indeed how to live in humble circumstances; I know also how to live with abundance. In every circumstance and in all things I have learned the secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of living in abundance and of being in need.

我也知道受穷，也知道享受；在各样事上和各种境遇中，或饱饫，或饥饿，或富裕，或贫乏，我都得了秘诀。

13 I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me.

我赖加强我力量的那位，能应付一切。

14 Still, it was kind of you to share in my distress.

但是，你们也实在做的好，因为你们分担了我的困苦。

15 You Philippians indeed know that at the beginning of the gospel, 9 when I left Macedonia, not a single church shared with me in an account of giving and receiving, except you alone.

你们斐理伯人也知道：当我在传福音之初，离开马其顿时，没有一个教会在支收的事项上供应过我，惟独只有你们；

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

就连我在得撒洛尼时，你们不只一次，而且两次曾给我送来我的急需。

17 It is not that I am eager for the gift; rather, I am eager for the profit that accrues to your account.

我并不是贪求馈赠，我所贪求的，是归入你们账内的丰厚的利息。

18 I have received full payment and I abound. I am very well supplied because of what I received from you through Epaphroditus,＂a fragrant aroma,＂ an acceptable sacrifice, 10 pleasing to God.

如今我已收到了一切，已富足了；我由厄帕洛狄托收到了你们所送来的芬芳的馨香，天主所悦纳中意的祭品，我已满够了。

19 My God will fully supply whatever you need, in accord with his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

我的天主必要以自己的财富，在基督耶稣内，丰富满足你们的一切需要。

20 To our God and Father, glory forever and ever. Amen.

愿光荣归于天主，我们的父，至于世世。阿们。

21 11 Give my greetings to every holy one in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send you their greetings;

你们要在基督耶稣内问候各位圣徒；同我在一起的弟兄都问候你们。

22 all the holy ones send you their greetings, especially those of Caesar's household. 12

众位圣徒，特别是凯撒家中的圣徒，都问候你们。

23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

愿主耶稣基督的恩宠与你们的心神同在。阿们。



Footnotes〔注解〕

1 [1-9] This series of ethical admonitions rests especially on the view of Christ and his coming (cf Philippians 4:5) in Philippians 3:20-21. Paul's instructions touch on unity within the congregation, joy, prayer, and the Christian outlook on life.

2 [2] Euodia . . . Syntyche: two otherwise unknown women in the Philippian congregation; on the advice to them, cf Philippians 2:2-4.

3 [3] Yokemate: or＂comrade,＂ although the Greek syzygos could also be a proper name. Clement: otherwise unknown, although later writers sought to identify him with Clement, bishop of Rome (Eusebius, Ecclesiastical History 3.15.1).

4 [4] Rejoice: see the note on Philippians 3:1.

5 [5] Kindness: considerateness, forbearance, fairness. The Lord is near: most likely a reference to Christ's parousia (Philippians 1:6, 10; 3:20-21; 1 Cor 16:22), although some sense an echo of Psalm 119:151 and the perpetual presence of the Lord.

6 [8] The language employs terms from Roman Stoic thought.

7 [9] Cf the note on Philippians 3:17.

8 [10-20] Paul, more directly than anywhere else in the letter (cf Philippians 1:3-5), here thanks the Philippians for their gift of money sent through Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:25). Paul's own policy was to be self-sufficient as a missionary, supporting himself by his own labor (1 Thes 2:5-9; 1 Cor 9:15-18; cf Acts 18:2-3). In spite of this reliance on self and on God to provide (Philippians 4:11-13) Paul accepted gifts from the Philippians not only once but more than once (Philippians 4:16) when he was in Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-9), as he does now, in prison (my distress, Philippians 4:14). While commercial terms appear in the passage, like an account of giving and receiving (Philippians 4:15) and received full payment (Philippians 4:18), Paul is most concerned about the spiritual growth of the Philippians (10.17.19); he emphasizes that God will care for their needs, through Christ.

9 [15] The beginning of the gospel: it was at Philippi that Paul first preached Christ in Europe, going on from there to Thessalonica and Beroea (Acts 16:9-17:14).

10 [18] Aroma . . . sacrifice: Old Testament cultic language (cf Genesis 8:21; Exodus 29:18, 25, 41; Lev 1:9, 13; Ezekiel 20:41) applied to the Philippians' gift; cf Eph 5:2; 2 Cor 2:14-16.

11 [21-23] On the usual greetings at the conclusion of a letter, see the note on 1 Cor 16:19-24. Inclusion of greetings from all the holy ones in the place from which Paul writes would involve even the Christians of Philippians 1:14-18 who had their differences with Paul.

12 [22] Those of Caesar's household: minor officials or even slaves and freedmen, found in Ephesus or Rome, among other places.