Philippians 2 23

Philippians 2:23 kjv

Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me.

Philippians 2:23 nkjv

Therefore I hope to send him at once, as soon as I see how it goes with me.

Philippians 2:23 niv

I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me.

Philippians 2:23 esv

I hope therefore to send him just as soon as I see how it will go with me,

Philippians 2:23 nlt

I hope to send him to you just as soon as I find out what is going to happen to me here.

Philippians 2 verses

Philippians 2 23 Meaning

The Apostle Paul expresses his earnest intention to send his trusted co-worker, Timothy, to the Philippian church. This dispatch, intended to be immediate once feasible, is contingent upon the resolution of Paul's personal circumstances, likely referring to the outcome of his imprisonment and trial in Rome. It underscores Paul's deep pastoral concern for the Philippians' spiritual welfare and his strategic planning for continued ministry, even while facing his own uncertain future.

Philippians 2 23 Context

Within Philippians chapter 2, Paul has fervently called the church to unity, humility, and selfless service, epitomized by the example of Christ (vv. 1-11). He then urges them to "work out their salvation" in a way that shines light into the world (vv. 12-16). To illustrate these virtues concretely, he immediately provides two living examples: Timothy (vv. 19-24) and Epaphroditus (vv. 25-30). Verse 23 is a direct continuation of Paul's practical pastoral strategy regarding Timothy's impending mission, demonstrating the very spirit of humility and other-centeredness that Paul has just exhorted.

Historically, Paul is writing from Roman imprisonment, facing a potentially capital trial. His future is highly uncertain, which directly impacts his ability to travel or send others. The Philippian church is deeply concerned about him, having sent Epaphroditus to minister to him and provide aid. In turn, Paul is anxious to send back trusted messengers to comfort, inform, and strengthen them, acknowledging the communication challenges and dangers of travel in the first century Roman world. The outcome of Paul's legal situation is critical to these strategic ministry decisions.

Philippians 2 23 Word analysis

• Therefore (οὖν, oun): This conjunctive particle indicates a logical conclusion or transition, tying the decision to send Timothy directly to Paul's commendation of Timothy's character and selfless dedication described in verses 19-22, reinforcing Timothy as the ideal messenger.
• I hope (ἐλπίζω, elpizō): More than a mere wish, this signifies a confident expectation rooted in faith, a strong desire that is biblically informed and relies on divine enablement, as opposed to mere human optimism.
• to send (πέμπω, pempō): To dispatch, commission, or delegate. This word implies a purposeful, authorized mission, highlighting the significance of Timothy's task and Paul's apostolic authority in delegating it.
• him (αὐτόν, auton): This pronoun refers unambiguously to Timothy, Paul's devoted and tested companion and co-worker, whose proven faithfulness and genuine concern for the Philippians' welfare have just been emphasized (vv. 19-22).
• at once (ἐξαυτῆς, exautēs): This adverb stresses immediate action or dispatch. It reflects Paul's profound urgency and eager desire to provide comfort, clarification, and encouragement to the Philippians without undue delay, emphasizing the importance of their spiritual well-being.
• as soon as I see (ὡς ἂν ἀποβλέψω, hōs an apoblepsō):
  • hōs an: A temporal particle marking "when" or "as soon as," indicating a conditional action.
  • apoblépsō (from ἀποβλέπω, apoblepō): This verb means to "look away from everything else and fix one's gaze upon," "to consider carefully," or "discern." It suggests a discerning, considered evaluation rather than a quick glance. Paul implies that he will make an informed, prayerful assessment of his situation before making the final decision.
• how things go with me (τὰ περὶ ἐμέ, ta peri emé): Literally "the things concerning me," this comprehensive phrase refers to Paul's personal circumstances, specifically the anticipated outcome of his legal proceedings and imprisonment in Rome (cf. Phil 1:19-26). It underscores the pivotal role of his impending verdict in determining his future ministry actions and travel plans.

Words-group analysis:

• "Therefore I hope to send him at once": This phrase reveals Paul's clear pastoral intention and the priority he places on the Philippians' needs. The inclusion of "at once" communicates his deep urgency and eagerness to dispatch Timothy, tempered by spiritual hope rather than impulsive haste.
• "as soon as I see how things go with me": This highlights Paul's strategic and prudent approach, grounded in the realities of his confinement and his reliance on divine providence. He plans actively but recognizes that the exact timing and execution of his plans are contingent upon the resolution of his circumstances, implying trust in God's overarching plan and a sober assessment of external factors.

Philippians 2 23 Bonus section

• Paul's strategic reliance on trusted human agents like Timothy was a cornerstone of early Christian mission and church planting. These personal envoys carried more weight and personal impact than letters alone could.
• The contingency implied in "as soon as I see how things go with me" resonates with biblical wisdom to make plans while acknowledging divine sovereignty (e.g., Prov 16:9; James 4:13-15), showcasing Paul's spiritual maturity and trust in God's leading even amidst great personal uncertainty.
• This verse provides a window into the logistics of maintaining spiritual oversight and community cohesion in a widely dispersed, interconnected, yet physically separated early church. Communication and care often depended entirely on such courageous journeys by trusted individuals.

Philippians 2 23 Commentary

Philippians 2:23 illustrates Paul's model of faithful apostolic leadership, balancing fervent spiritual desire with practical, contingent planning. His hope to send Timothy immediately reflects his genuine and urgent pastoral concern for the Philippian church's encouragement and continued growth, preventing them from enduring anxiety over his situation any longer than necessary. Yet, this urgency is wisely conditioned on the outcome of his Roman imprisonment. Paul’s discerning "as soon as I see how things go with me" demonstrates a leader who both plans strategically and yields humbly to God’s sovereign timing and the prevailing circumstances. He entrusts the church's care to a proven and like-minded helper, Timothy, ensuring that the work of the gospel continues and that his beloved flock receives crucial support, even amidst his personal trials.