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But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/philippians/2-27.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/philippians/2-27.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/philippians/">Philippians</a> > <a href="/philippians/2.htm">Chapter 2</a> > Verse 27</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad7.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/philippians/2-26.htm" title="Philippians 2:26">◄</a> Philippians 2:27 <a href="/philippians/2-28.htm" title="Philippians 2:28">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/philippians/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/philippians/2.htm">New International Version</a> Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/nlt/philippians/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> And he certainly was ill; in fact, he almost died. But God had mercy on him—and also on me, so that I would not have one sorrow after another. <a href="/esv/philippians/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> Indeed he was ill, near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/bsb/philippians/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> He was sick indeed, nearly unto death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/blb/philippians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And indeed he was sick, nearly unto death. But God had mercy on him, and not on him alone but also on me, that I should not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/kjv/philippians/2.htm">King James Bible</a> For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/nkjv/philippians/2.htm">New King James Version</a> For indeed he was sick almost unto death; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/nasb_/philippians/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For indeed he was sick to the point of death, but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but also on me, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/nasb/philippians/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> For indeed he was sick to the point of death, but God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/nasb77/philippians/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For indeed he was sick to the point of death, but God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/lsb/philippians/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For indeed he was sick to the point of death, but God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/amp/philippians/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> He certainly was sick and close to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but also on me, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/csb/philippians/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Indeed, he was so sick that he nearly died. However, God had mercy on him, and not only on him but also on me, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/hcsb/philippians/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Indeed, he was so sick that he nearly died. However, God had mercy on him, and not only on him but also on me, so that I would not have one grief on top of another. <a href="/asv/philippians/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> for indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, that I might not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/cev/philippians/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> In fact, he was very sick and almost died. But God was kind to him, and also to me, and he kept me from being burdened down with sorrow. <a href="/erv/philippians/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> for indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, that I might not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/gwt/philippians/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Indeed, he was so sick that he almost died. But God had mercy not only on him but also on me and kept me from having one sorrow on top of another. <a href="/gnt/philippians/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> Indeed he was sick and almost died. But God had pity on him, and not only on him but on me, too, and spared me an even greater sorrow. <a href="/isv/philippians/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> Indeed, he was sick to the point of death, but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but also on me, so that I would not have one sorrow on top of another. <a href="/msb/philippians/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> He was sick indeed, nearly unto death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/net/philippians/2.htm">NET Bible</a> In fact he became so ill that he nearly died. But God showed mercy to him--and not to him only, but also to me--so that I would not have grief on top of grief. <a href="/nheb/philippians/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For indeed he was sick, nearly to death, but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, that I might not have sorrow on sorrow. <a href="/wbt/philippians/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For indeed he was sick nigh to death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/wey/philippians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For it is true that he has been ill, and was apparently at the point of death; but God had pity on him, and not only on him, but also on me, to save me from having sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/web/philippians/2.htm">World English Bible</a> For indeed he was sick nearly to death, but God had mercy on him, and not on him only, but on me also, that I might not have sorrow on sorrow. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/philippians/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for he also ailed near to death, but God dealt kindly with him, and not with him only, but also with me, that I might not have sorrow on sorrow. <a href="/blb/philippians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And indeed he was sick, nearly unto death. But God had mercy on him, and not on him alone but also on me, that I should not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/ylt/philippians/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for he also ailed nigh to death, but God did deal kindly with him, and not with him only, but also with me, that sorrow upon sorrow I might not have. <a href="/slt/philippians/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For also he was sick near to death: but God compassionated him; and not him only, but also me, lest I should have grief upon grief.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/philippians/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For indeed he was sick, nigh unto death; but God had mercy on him; and not only on him, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/cpdv/philippians/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For he was sick, even unto death, but God took pity on him, and not only on him, but truly on myself also, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/nabre/philippians/2.htm">New American Bible</a> 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. <a href="/nrsvce/philippians/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> He was indeed so ill that he nearly died. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, so that I would not have one sorrow after another.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/philippians/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For indeed he was sick to the point of death but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/philippians/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For he was ill even unto death, but God had compassion upon him, and not upon him only, but also upon me, lest I would have sorrow upon sorrow.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/philippians/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> And, indeed, he was sick near to death; but God had mercy on him, and not on him only, but on me also, that I might not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/godbey/philippians/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For he was indeed nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not only him, but me also, in order that I may not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/haweis/philippians/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For sick indeed he was, nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, that I might not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/mace/philippians/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> but God had pity on him, and not on him only, but on me likewise, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/wey/philippians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For it is true that he has been ill, and was apparently at the point of death; but God had pity on him, and not only on him, but also on me, to save me from having sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/worrell/philippians/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> For, in fact, he was sick, near to death; but God had mercy on him, and not on him only, but on me also, that I might not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/worsley/philippians/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> For indeed he was sick and nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him, and not on him only, but on me also, that I might not have sorrow upon sorrow. <a href="/parallel/philippians/2-27.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mXomUhcrPbg?start=478" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/philippians/2.htm">Epaphroditus Commended</a> …26For he has been longing for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. 27<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason."></a> <a href="/greek/770.htm" title="770: ēsthenēsen (V-AIA-3S) -- To be weak (physically: then morally), To be sick. From asthenes; to be feeble.">He was sick</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">indeed,</a> <a href="/greek/3897.htm" title="3897: paraplēsion (Adv) -- Near to, nearly. Neuter of a compound of para and the base of plesion; close by, i.e. almost.">nearly</a> <a href="/greek/2288.htm" title="2288: thanatō (N-DMS) -- Death, physical or spiritual. From thnesko; death.">unto death.</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">But</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theos (N-NMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God</a> <a href="/greek/1653.htm" title="1653: ēleēsen (V-AIA-3S) -- To pity, have mercy on. From eleos; to compassionate.">had mercy on</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: auton (PPro-AM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">him,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">and</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not</a> <a href="/greek/3441.htm" title="3441: monon (Adj-AMS) -- Only, solitary, desolate. Probably from meno; remaining, i.e. Sole or single; by implication, mere.">only</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: auton (PPro-AM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">on him</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">also</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: eme (PPro-A1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">on me,</a> <a href="/greek/2443.htm" title="2443: hina (Conj) -- In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.">to</a> <a href="/greek/3361.htm" title="3361: mē (Adv) -- Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether."></a> <a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: schō (V-ASA-1S) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">spare me</a> <a href="/greek/3077.htm" title="3077: lypēn (N-AFS) -- Pain, grief, sorrow, affliction. Apparently a primary word; sadness.">sorrow</a> <a href="/greek/1909.htm" title="1909: epi (Prep) -- On, to, against, on the basis of, at. ">upon</a> <a href="/greek/3077.htm" title="3077: lypēn (N-AFS) -- Pain, grief, sorrow, affliction. Apparently a primary word; sadness.">sorrow.</a> 28Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less anxious.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/2_corinthians/1-8.htm">2 Corinthians 1:8-11</a> We do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the hardships we encountered in the province of Asia. We were under a burden far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. / Indeed, we felt we were under the sentence of death, in order that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God, who raises the dead. / He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us. In Him we have placed our hope that He will yet again deliver us, ... <a href="/james/5-15.htm">James 5:15</a> And the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick. The Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. <a href="/2_kings/20-1.htm">2 Kings 20:1-6</a> In those days Hezekiah became mortally ill. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz came to him and said, “This is what the LORD says: ‘Put your house in order, for you are about to die; you will not recover.’” / Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the LORD, saying, / “Please, O LORD, remember how I have walked before You faithfully and with wholehearted devotion; I have done what is good in Your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly. ... <a href="/isaiah/38-1.htm">Isaiah 38:1-5</a> In those days Hezekiah became mortally ill. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz came to him and said, “This is what the LORD says: ‘Put your house in order, for you are about to die; you will not recover.’” / Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the LORD, / saying, “Please, O LORD, remember how I have walked before You faithfully and with wholehearted devotion; I have done what is good in Your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly. ... <a href="/2_corinthians/12-7.htm">2 Corinthians 12:7-10</a> or because of these surpassingly great revelations. So to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. / Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. / But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me. ... <a href="/matthew/9-22.htm">Matthew 9:22</a> Jesus turned and saw her. “Take courage, daughter,” He said, “your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed from that very hour. <a href="/mark/5-34.htm">Mark 5:34</a> “Daughter,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be free of your affliction.” <a href="/luke/7-2.htm">Luke 7:2-10</a> There a highly valued servant of a centurion was sick and about to die. / When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish elders to ask Him to come and heal his servant. / They came to Jesus and pleaded with Him earnestly, “This man is worthy to have You grant this, ... <a href="/john/11-1.htm">John 11:1-4</a> At this time a man named Lazarus was sick. He lived in Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. / (Mary, whose brother Lazarus was sick, was to anoint the Lord with perfume and wipe His feet with her hair.) / So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one You love is sick.” ... <a href="/acts/9-36.htm">Acts 9:36-41</a> In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which is translated as Dorcas), who was always occupied with works of kindness and charity. / At that time, however, she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upper room. / Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to urge him, “Come to us without delay.” ... <a href="/1_kings/17-17.htm">1 Kings 17:17-24</a> Later, the son of the woman who owned the house became ill, and his sickness grew worse and worse, until no breath remained in him. / “O man of God,” said the woman to Elijah, “what have you done to me? Have you come to remind me of my iniquity and cause the death of my son?” / But Elijah said to her, “Give me your son.” So he took him from her arms, carried him to the upper room where he was staying, and laid him on his own bed. ... <a href="/2_kings/4-32.htm">2 Kings 4:32-37</a> When Elisha reached the house, there was the boy lying dead on his bed. / So he went in, closed the door behind the two of them, and prayed to the LORD. / Then Elisha got on the bed and lay on the boy, mouth to mouth, eye to eye, and hand to hand. As he stretched himself out over him, the boy’s body became warm. ... <a href="/psalms/30-2.htm">Psalm 30:2-3</a> O LORD my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me. / O LORD, You pulled me up from Sheol; You spared me from descending into the Pit. <a href="/psalms/103-3.htm">Psalm 103:3</a> He who forgives all your iniquities and heals all your diseases, <a href="/psalms/107-19.htm">Psalm 107:19-20</a> Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress. / He sent forth His word and healed them; He rescued them from the Pit.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>For indeed he was sick near to death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow on sorrow.nigh.<a href="/philippians/2-30.htm">Philippians 2:30</a> Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.<a href="/2_kings/20-1.htm">2 Kings 20:1</a> In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live.<a href="/psalms/107-18.htm">Psalm 107:18</a> Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat; and they draw near unto the gates of death.but God.<a href="/job/5-19.htm">Job 5:19</a> He shall deliver thee in six troubles: yea, in seven there shall no evil touch thee.<a href="/psalms/30-1.htm">Psalm 30:1-3,10,11</a> A Psalm and Song at the dedication of the house of David. I will extol thee, O LORD; for thou hast lifted me up, and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me… <a href="/psalms/34-19.htm">Psalm 34:19</a> Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.but on.<a href="/isaiah/27-8.htm">Isaiah 27:8</a> In measure, when it shooteth forth, thou wilt debate with it: he stayeth his rough wind in the day of the east wind.<a href="/jeremiah/8-18.htm">Jeremiah 8:18</a> When I would comfort myself against sorrow, my heart is faint in me.<a href="/jeremiah/10-24.htm">Jeremiah 10:24</a> O LORD, correct me, but with judgment; not in thine anger, lest thou bring me to nothing.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/philippians/2-26.htm">Ailed</a> <a href="/acts/26-29.htm">Almost</a> <a href="/galatians/6-4.htm">Alone</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/12-22.htm">Apparently</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-14.htm">Close</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">Deal</a> <a href="/philippians/2-8.htm">Death</a> <a href="/galatians/2-21.htm">Died</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-21.htm">Fact</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-30.htm">Grief</a> <a href="/philippians/2-26.htm">Ill</a> <a href="/philippians/2-23.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-7.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/romans/13-12.htm">Nearly</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-17.htm">Nigh</a> <a href="/philippians/2-1.htm">Pity</a> <a href="/philippians/2-8.htm">Point</a> <a href="/galatians/6-14.htm">Save</a> <a href="/philippians/2-26.htm">Sick</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-11.htm">Sorrow</a> <a href="/philippians/2-3.htm">True.</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/114-5.htm">Ailed</a> <a href="/philippians/2-30.htm">Almost</a> <a href="/colossians/4-11.htm">Alone</a> <a href="/numbers/12-8.htm">Apparently</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-6.htm">Close</a> <a href="/colossians/4-1.htm">Deal</a> <a href="/philippians/2-30.htm">Death</a> <a href="/philippians/2-30.htm">Died</a> <a href="/philippians/4-10.htm">Fact</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-7.htm">Grief</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-23.htm">Ill</a> <a href="/philippians/3-1.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/colossians/3-12.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/philippians/2-30.htm">Nearly</a> <a href="/philippians/2-30.htm">Nigh</a> <a href="/colossians/3-12.htm">Pity</a> <a href="/philippians/3-15.htm">Point</a> <a href="/philippians/4-15.htm">Save</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-20.htm">Sick</a> <a href="/philippians/2-28.htm">Sorrow</a> <a href="/philippians/3-3.htm">True.</a><div class="vheading2">Philippians 2</div>1. <a href="/philippians/2-1.htm">Paul exhorts them to unity, and to all humbleness of mind, by the example of Christ's humility;</a> 12. <a href="/philippians/2-12.htm">to a careful proceeding in the way of salvation, that they be as lights to a wicked world,</a> 16. <a href="/philippians/2-16.htm">and comforts to him their apostle, who is now ready to be offered up to God.</a> 19. <a href="/philippians/2-19.htm">He hopes to send Timothy to them, and Epaphroditus also.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/philippians/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/philippians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/philippians/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>He was sick indeed, nearly unto death. This phrase refers to Epaphroditus, a fellow worker and messenger sent by the Philippian church to assist Paul. His illness was severe, highlighting the physical dangers faced by early Christian missionaries. The phrase underscores the reality of suffering and mortality, even among the faithful. It reflects the human condition and the vulnerability of life, reminding believers of the importance of prayer and reliance on God during times of illness. The near-death experience of Epaphroditus also serves as a testament to his dedication and the risks involved in serving the early church.But God had mercy on him, This statement emphasizes God's intervention and compassion. Mercy here is seen as a divine attribute, showcasing God's willingness to heal and restore. It reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and grace, often seen in the healing miracles of Jesus, such as in <a href="/matthew/9-27.htm">Matthew 9:27-31</a>, where Jesus shows mercy to the blind men. The mercy shown to Epaphroditus is a reminder of God's active presence in the lives of believers and His power to alter circumstances according to His will.and not only on him but also on me, Paul acknowledges that God's mercy extended beyond Epaphroditus to himself, highlighting the interconnectedness of the Christian community. This reflects the communal nature of the early church, where the well-being of one member affected the entire body. It also illustrates the deep personal relationships and mutual care among early Christians, as seen in <a href="/1_corinthians/12-26.htm">1 Corinthians 12:26</a>, where Paul writes about the body of Christ suffering and rejoicing together.to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. Paul expresses gratitude for being spared additional grief, indicating the emotional burden he carried. This phrase reveals Paul's humanity and the depth of his affection for his co-workers. It also highlights the theme of suffering in Paul's letters, as he often writes about enduring hardships for the sake of the Gospel (<a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">2 Corinthians 11:23-28</a>). The phrase "sorrow upon sorrow" suggests a cumulative effect of trials, yet it also points to the hope and relief found in God's intervention. This reflects the Christian belief in God's comfort and support during times of distress, as seen in <a href="/2_corinthians/1-3.htm">2 Corinthians 1:3-4</a>, where God is described as the "Father of compassion and the God of all comfort."<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/e/epaphroditus.htm">Epaphroditus</a> A fellow worker and messenger from the Philippian church who was sent to assist Paul. He became seriously ill during his mission. 2. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle who wrote the letter to the Philippians. He expresses gratitude for God's mercy in healing Epaphroditus. 3. <a href="/topical/p/philippi.htm">Philippi</a> A city in Macedonia where the church that sent Epaphroditus to Paul was located. 4. <a href="/topical/g/god's_mercy.htm">God's Mercy</a> The divine intervention that healed Epaphroditus and spared Paul additional grief. 5. <a href="/topical/s/sorrow_upon_sorrow.htm">Sorrow upon Sorrow</a> Paul's emotional state, which would have been compounded by the loss of Epaphroditus.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_fellowship_and_support.htm">The Importance of Fellowship and Support</a> Epaphroditus's mission underscores the value of supporting fellow believers in their ministry work. <a href="/topical/g/god's_mercy_in_times_of_distress.htm">God's Mercy in Times of Distress</a> Recognize and be thankful for God's intervention and mercy in difficult times. <a href="/topical/e/empathy_and_shared_burdens.htm">Empathy and Shared Burdens</a> Paul's concern for Epaphroditus teaches us to share in the joys and sorrows of others, fostering a compassionate community. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_prayer_and_faith.htm">The Power of Prayer and Faith</a> Trust in God's ability to heal and comfort, as demonstrated in the recovery of Epaphroditus. <a href="/topical/g/gratitude_for_god's_provision.htm">Gratitude for God's Provision</a> Acknowledge and express gratitude for God's provision and care in our lives and the lives of others.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_philippians_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Philippians 2</a> <a href="/q/who_was_epaphroditus_in_the_bible.htm">Who was Epaphroditus in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/bible's_view_on_mental_illness.htm">What does the Bible say about mental illness?</a> <a href="/q/does_1_peter_2_24_promise_physical_healing.htm">1 Peter 2:24: Does “by his wounds you have been healed” imply guaranteed physical healing, and how do we account for illnesses that remain unhealed? </a> <a href="/q/can_you_heal_yourself,_doctor.htm">Can you heal yourself, doctor?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/philippians/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(27) God had mercy on him . . . and on me also.--The passage, over and above its interest as an example of the strong personal affection which belonged to St. Paul's nature, and harmonised with his wide scope of Christian love, is notable as showing clearly that the Apostle's power of miracle, great as it was, was not his own, to use at his own will. When it was needed to be "the sign of an Apostle" (<a href="/2_corinthians/13-12.htm" title="Greet one another with an holy kiss.">2Corinthians 13:12</a>) it was given; and at special times, as at Ephesus, it was given in "special" fulness (<a href="/acts/19-11.htm" title="And God worked special miracles by the hands of Paul:">Acts 19:11</a>). As we note, both in the Old Testament and in the New, special epochs of miracles in the history of the Church; so it would seem there were special occasions on which miracle came out prominently in the Apostle's preaching. We may, perhaps, infer from certain points in the descriptions of the healing of the cripple at the Beautiful Gate (<a href="/acts/3-4.htm" title="And Peter, fastening his eyes on him with John, said, Look on us.">Acts 3:4</a>), and at Lystra (<a href="/acts/14-8.htm" title="And there sat a certain man at Lystra, weak in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked:">Acts 14:8</a>) that some spiritual intimation warned them when the hour of miracle was come. But an Apostle could not, as our Lord would not, work miracles for his own needs. Thus in this case, deeply as he sorrowed for Epaphroditus, there is no hint of his exercising that power on his behalf. He could only pray that God would have mercy on him, and thank God when that prayer was heard.Sorrow upon sorrow.--That is, probably, upon the sorrow of captivity the sorrow of losing one who had (see <a href="/philippians/2-30.htm" title="Because for the work of Christ he was near to death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.">Philippians 2:30</a>) risked his life in the ardour of service to the captive. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/philippians/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 27. - For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. St. Paul recognizes the thankfulness of Epaphroditus for the recovery of his health: he shares that thankfulness himself. Mark his human sympathies; he had a "desire to depart," but he rejoices in the recovery of his friend. St. Paul does not seem to have healed Epaphroditus. The power of working miracles, like that of foreseeing the future (comp. <a href="/philippians/1-25.htm">Philippians 1:25</a>, and note), was not, it seems, continuous; both were exercised only in accordance with the revealed will of God and on occasions of especial moment. <a href="/commentaries/philippians/2-27.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>He was sick ἠσθένησεν (ēsthenēsen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_770.htm">Strong's 770: </a> To be weak (physically: then morally), To be sick. From asthenes; to be feeble. indeed, καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. nearly παραπλήσιον (paraplēsion) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3897.htm">Strong's 3897: </a> Near to, nearly. Neuter of a compound of para and the base of plesion; close by, i.e. almost. unto death. θανάτῳ (thanatō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2288.htm">Strong's 2288: </a> Death, physical or spiritual. From thnesko; death. But ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. God Θεὸς (Theos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. had mercy on ἠλέησεν (ēleēsen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1653.htm">Strong's 1653: </a> To pity, have mercy on. From eleos; to compassionate. him, αὐτόν (auton) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. and δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. not οὐκ (ouk) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. only μόνον (monon) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3441.htm">Strong's 3441: </a> Only, solitary, desolate. Probably from meno; remaining, i.e. Sole or single; by implication, mere. on him αὐτὸν (auton) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. also καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. on me, ἐμέ (eme) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. to ἵνα (hina) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2443.htm">Strong's 2443: </a> In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that. spare me σχῶ (schō) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold. sorrow λύπην (lypēn) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3077.htm">Strong's 3077: </a> Pain, grief, sorrow, affliction. Apparently a primary word; sadness. upon ἐπὶ (epi) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1909.htm">Strong's 1909: </a> On, to, against, on the basis of, at. sorrow. λύπην (lypēn) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3077.htm">Strong's 3077: </a> Pain, grief, sorrow, affliction. Apparently a primary word; sadness. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/philippians/2-27.htm">Philippians 2:27 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/philippians/2-27.htm">Philippians 2:27 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/philippians/2-27.htm">Philippians 2:27 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/philippians/2-27.htm">Philippians 2:27 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/philippians/2-27.htm">Philippians 2:27 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/philippians/2-27.htm">Philippians 2:27 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/philippians/2-27.htm">Philippians 2:27 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/philippians/2-27.htm">Philippians 2:27 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/philippians/2-27.htm">Philippians 2:27 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/philippians/2-27.htm">Philippians 2:27 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/philippians/2-27.htm">NT Letters: Philippians 2:27 For indeed he was sick nearly (Philipp. Phil. Php.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/philippians/2-26.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Philippians 2:26"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Philippians 2:26" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/philippians/2-28.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Philippians 2:28"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Philippians 2:28" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>