Philippians 4:18

18 But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from ¹Epaphroditus what you have sent, ²a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.

Philippians 4:18 Meaning and Commentary

Philippians 4:18

But I have all things, and abound
Or "I have received all things", as the Syriac version renders it; all that they had sent by Epaphroditus; and for which he now gives a receipt; and by virtue of which he now abounded; and which abundance of his was not so much owing to the largeness of their presents, as to the peace of his mind; looking upon this gift of theirs, though it might be but small in itself, a fulness to him; for he adds,

I am full;
as much as he desired, he wanted no more, he had enough:

having received of Epaphroditus the things [which were sent] from you:
and which he acknowledged, that the character of this good man might stand clear, who had been intrusted with this affair:

an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to
God,
this is said in allusion to the sacrifices under the former dispensation, in which God smelled a sweet savour, ( Genesis 8:21 ) , in reference to which, as the sacrifice of Christ is said to be of a sweet smelling savour, ( Ephesians 5:2 ) , and as the spiritual sacrifices of the saints, as praises and prayers, are called odours, ( Revelation 5:8 ) , and are said to be acceptable unto God, ( 1 Peter 2:5 ) ; so acts of beneficence are called sacrifices, with which he is well pleased, ( Hebrews 13:16 ) .

Philippians 4:18 In-Context

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

17 Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account.

18 But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.

19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

20 Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

Cross References

• 1. Philippians 2:25
• 2. Exodus 29:18; 2 Corinthians 2:14; Ephesians 5:2

Footnotes

• [a] Lit "made full"
• [b] Lit "the things from you"
• [c] Lit "an odor of fragrance"