Philippians 2 20

Philippians 2:20 kjv

For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.

Philippians 2:20 nkjv

For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state.

Philippians 2:20 niv

I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare.

Philippians 2:20 esv

For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.

Philippians 2:20 nlt

I have no one else like Timothy, who genuinely cares about your welfare.

Philippians 2 verses

Philippians 2 20 Meaning

Philippians 2:20 expresses the Apostle Paul's profound confidence and high regard for Timothy, highlighting Timothy's singular dedication to the welfare of the Philippian believers. Paul states that among his companions, Timothy stands out as the only one who shares Paul's own mindset – one fully devoted to sincerely caring for the church's state rather than his own interests. This verse serves to commend Timothy as an exemplary spiritual leader and a truly selfless servant of Christ and His people.

Philippians 2 20 Context

This verse is embedded in Paul's letter to the Philippians, a letter filled with themes of joy, unity, perseverance, and humble service to Christ. Chapter 2 is particularly rich, beginning with a profound exhortation to unity and selflessness (vv. 1-4), immediately followed by the Christ hymn, which sets Christ's humble condescension and obedient service as the ultimate pattern for believers (vv. 5-11). Paul then calls believers to "work out their own salvation" through obedience, driven by God's power (vv. 12-18). Within this ethical section, Paul introduces Timothy and Epaphroditus as practical, living illustrations of the very humility, selfless service, and Christ-like mind he has just preached. Philippians 2:20 specifically commends Timothy by contrasting his genuinely solicitous spirit with the self-interested attitudes of others whom Paul encountered. It sets up the impending mission of Timothy as a trusted representative of Paul, reinforcing why the Philippians should welcome and trust him.

Philippians 2 20 Word analysis

• For: (Greek: γὰρ, gar) - This conjunction connects the thought to the previous verse (Phil 2:19), providing the reason why Paul intends to send Timothy soon – because of his unparalleled suitability.
• I have: (Greek: ἔχω, echō) - Simply states Paul's possession of this understanding or experience. It's a statement of fact regarding his current situation concerning his companions.
• no one else: (Greek: οὐδένα... ἄλλον, oudena... allon) - This strong negative combined with "else" emphasizes Timothy's uniqueness. It suggests Paul had others, but none with the particular quality he's about to describe. It underlines the rarity and preciousness of Timothy's character.
• like-minded: (Greek: ἰσόψυχον, isopsychon) - This is a compound word formed from isos (equal) and psychē (soul, life, mind). It means "of equal soul" or "sharing the same mind/spirit." It indicates that Timothy’s innermost motivations, thoughts, and disposition mirrored Paul's, particularly his selflessness and deep concern for others, centered on Christ. This is not mere agreement, but a shared essence of purpose and spiritual passion. It directly relates to the "mind of Christ" (Phil 2:5) that Paul urged all believers to adopt.
• who will genuinely: (Greek: ὅστις γνησίως, hostis gnēsiōs) - Hostis is a relative pronoun ("who indeed") that strengthens the qualification of "like-minded." Gnēsiōs (adverb from gnēsios) means "truly," "genuinely," "sincerely," or "legitimately." It highlights the authenticity and unmixed motives behind Timothy's concern. His care isn't superficial or for show but springs from true, heartfelt dedication, not from self-seeking ambition. In ancient contexts, gnēsios could denote a legitimate, lawful child, suggesting Timothy's spiritual sonship with Paul and thus his inheritance of Paul's true spirit.
• care for: (Greek: μεριμνήσει, merimnēsei) - This verb (future active indicative of merimnaō) signifies "to be anxious," "to be concerned," "to care for." While it can sometimes carry a negative connotation of worry (e.g., Matt 6:25-34), here, it's used in a positive sense, reflecting deep, committed, and earnest concern for others, without the debilitating anxiety of faithlessness. It’s a purposeful, burden-bearing concern.
• your state: (Greek: τὰ περὶ ὑμῶν, ta peri hymōn) - Literally "the things concerning you" or "your affairs/interests." This broad phrase encompasses the spiritual well-being, material needs, internal unity, and external challenges of the Philippian church. Timothy's genuine care extends to every aspect of their condition.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "For I have no one else like-minded": This phrase establishes Timothy's unique quality among Paul's immediate circle. It highlights a specific, profound spiritual kinship, emphasizing the depth of his relationship with Paul beyond mere companionship. This "like-mindedness" isn't just doctrinal agreement but a shared heart and burden.
• "who will genuinely care": This elaborates on the nature of Timothy's shared mind with Paul. The genuineness (γνησίως) stresses pure motivation, free from personal gain or ambition, contrasting with a superficial or transactional form of care.
• "for your state": This defines the object and scope of Timothy's selfless concern—the well-being and circumstances of the Philippian believers. It means he focuses on their needs, problems, and spiritual growth, rather than abstract theological concepts alone.

Philippians 2 20 Bonus section

The concept of "ἰσόψυχον" (isopsychon), translated as "like-minded," is not frequently found in ancient Greek literature, making its use by Paul significant. It suggests a very profound level of agreement and spiritual unity, a meeting of souls or spirits that extends beyond mere intellectual accord. This points to a bond of spirit and purpose, specifically centered around the mission of the gospel and the well-being of the church, aligning perfectly with Paul’s broader teaching on unity and Christ-centered living. This unique term might reflect Paul's intentional choice to describe a rare and essential quality for effective ministry partnerships, emphasizing that shared conviction must be accompanied by shared passion and priorities for God's people. It's not just a cognitive alignment, but an emotional and volitional one, deeply rooted in their spiritual formation and identification with Christ.

Philippians 2 20 Commentary

Philippians 2:20 powerfully illustrates Paul’s ideal of Christian leadership and spiritual mentorship. In a church often plagued by internal strife and self-centeredness, Timothy shines as an exemplar. His "like-mindedness" with Paul implies a deep resonance with Paul's own Christ-like humility and passion for the gospel, cultivated through their years together. This isn't about being identical in personality but about sharing the same spiritual core and priority: the advancement of Christ's kingdom and the welfare of His people. The genuineness of his care signifies unadulterated motives, free from personal agenda, distinguishing him from those (like the ones implied in v. 21) who pursue self-interest. Timothy truly put the needs of others above his own, a rare quality then, as now, reflecting the very heart of Christ who "did not please himself" (Rom 15:3). This verse calls believers to examine their own motives in service, encouraging them to seek not their own glory or gain, but sincerely and wholly the welfare of the body of Christ. It implies that true Christian service is motivated by an 'isopsychon' with Christ Himself, manifested in selfless love.