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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Philippians 4:17 Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/philippians/4-17.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/13/50_Php_04_17.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Philippians 4:17 - The Generosity of the Philippians" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account." /><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/4-17.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/4-17.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/4.htm">Chapter 4</a> > Verse 17</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="/ad17.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/4-16.htm" title="Philippians 4:16">◄</a> Philippians 4:17 <a href="/philippians/4-18.htm" title="Philippians 4:18">►</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/4.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/4.htm">New International Version</a> Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. <a href="/nlt/philippians/4.htm">New Living Translation</a> I don’t say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness. <a href="/esv/philippians/4.htm">English Standard Version</a> Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. <a href="/bsb/philippians/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account. <a href="/blb/philippians/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Not that I seek after the gift, but I seek after the fruit abounding to your account. <a href="/kjv/philippians/4.htm">King James Bible</a> Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. <a href="/nkjv/philippians/4.htm">New King James Version</a> Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. <a href="/nasb_/philippians/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek the profit which increases to your account. <a href="/nasb/philippians/4.htm">NASB 1995</a> Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account. <a href="/nasb77/philippians/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account. <a href="/lsb/philippians/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek the fruit which increases to your account. <a href="/amp/philippians/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Not that I seek the gift itself, but I do seek the profit which increases to your [heavenly] account [the blessing which is accumulating for you]. <a href="/csb/philippians/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit that is increasing to your account. <a href="/hcsb/philippians/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit that is increasing to your account. <a href="/asv/philippians/4.htm">American Standard Version</a> Not that I seek for the gift; but I seek for the fruit that increaseth to your account. <a href="/cev/philippians/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I am not trying to get something from you, but I want you to receive the blessings that come from giving. <a href="/erv/philippians/4.htm">English Revised Version</a> Not that I seek for the gift; but I seek for the fruit that increaseth to your account. <a href="/gwt/philippians/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> It's not that I'm looking for a gift. The opposite is true. I'm looking for your resources to increase. <a href="/gnt/philippians/4.htm">Good News Translation</a> It is not that I just want to receive gifts; rather, I want to see profit added to your account. <a href="/isv/philippians/4.htm">International Standard Version</a> It is not that I am looking for a gift. No, I want to see that you receive the fruit that increases to your benefit. <a href="/msb/philippians/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account. <a href="/net/philippians/4.htm">NET Bible</a> I do not say this because I am seeking a gift. Rather, I seek the credit that abounds to your account. <a href="/nheb/philippians/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your account. <a href="/wbt/philippians/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. <a href="/wey/philippians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Not that I crave for gifts from you, but I do want to see abundant fruit bring you honour. <a href="/web/philippians/4.htm">World English Bible</a> Not that I seek for the gift, but I seek for the fruit that increases to your account. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/philippians/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> not that I seek after the gift, but I seek after the fruit that is overflowing to your account; <a href="/blb/philippians/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Not that I seek after the gift, but I seek after the fruit abounding to your account. <a href="/ylt/philippians/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> not that I seek after the gift, but I seek after the fruit that is overflowing to your account; <a href="/slt/philippians/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Not that I covet a gift: but I covet fruit abounding to your word.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/philippians/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that may abound to your account. <a href="/cpdv/philippians/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> It is not that I am seeking a gift. Instead, I seek the fruit that abounds to your benefit. <a href="/nabre/philippians/4.htm">New American Bible</a> It is not that I am eager for the gift; rather, I am eager for the profit that accrues to your account. <a href="/nrsvce/philippians/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit that accumulates to your account.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/philippians/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> I do not say this because I want a gift, but because I want to see the fruits of the gospel increased to you. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/philippians/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Not that I seek gifts, but I seek that fruit may abound to you.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/philippians/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Not that I seek a gift; but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. <a href="/godbey/philippians/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> Not that I seek a gift; but I seek fruit abounding to your credit. <a href="/haweis/philippians/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Not that I am anxious for a gift; but I am anxious to see fruit abounding on your account. <a href="/mace/philippians/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a> not that I desire a present; but what I desire is, that the fruits of your liberality may greatly redound to your own account. <a href="/wey/philippians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Not that I crave for gifts from you, but I do want to see abundant fruit bring you honour. <a href="/worrell/philippians/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> Not that I am seeking for the gift; but I seek for the fruit that abounds to your account. <a href="/worsley/philippians/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Not that I desire a gift, but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. <a href="/parallel/philippians/4-17.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=873" 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/4.htm">The Generosity of the Philippians</a> …16For even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs again and again. 17<a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: Ouch (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">Not</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">that</a> <a href="/greek/1934.htm" title="1934: epizētō (V-PIA-1S) -- To seek after, desire, search for, make inquiries about. From epi and zeteo; to search for; intensively, to demand, to crave.">I am seeking</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">a</a> <a href="/greek/1390.htm" title="1390: doma (N-ANS) -- A gift, present. From the base of didomi; a present.">gift,</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/1934.htm" title="1934: epizētō (V-PIA-1S) -- To seek after, desire, search for, make inquiries about. From epi and zeteo; to search for; intensively, to demand, to crave.">I am looking for</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/2590.htm" title="2590: karpon (N-AMS) -- Probably from the base of harpazo; fruit, literally or figuratively.">fruit</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">that</a> <a href="/greek/4121.htm" title="4121: pleonazonta (V-PPA-AMS) -- From pleion; to do, make or be more, i.e. Increase; by extension, to superabound.">may be credited</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">to</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymōn (PPro-G2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">your</a> <a href="/greek/3056.htm" title="3056: logon (N-AMS) -- From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.">account.</a> 18I have all I need and more, now that I have received your gifts from Epaphroditus. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.…<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/9-11.htm">2 Corinthians 9:11-13</a> You will be enriched in every way to be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will produce thanksgiving to God. / For this ministry of service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanksgiving to God. / Because of the proof this ministry provides, the saints will glorify God for your obedient confession of the gospel of Christ, and for the generosity of your contribution to them and to all the others. <a href="/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">2 Corinthians 8:2-5</a> In the terrible ordeal they suffered, their abundant joy and deep poverty overflowed into rich generosity. / For I testify that they gave according to their ability and even beyond it. Of their own accord, / they earnestly pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. ... <a href="/matthew/6-20.htm">Matthew 6:20</a> But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. <a href="/luke/12-33.htm">Luke 12:33-34</a> Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide yourselves with purses that will not wear out, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. / For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. <a href="/1_timothy/6-18.htm">1 Timothy 6:18-19</a> Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share, / treasuring up for themselves a firm foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life. <a href="/proverbs/19-17.htm">Proverbs 19:17</a> Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender. <a href="/galatians/6-6.htm">Galatians 6:6-10</a> Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor. / Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return. / The one who sows to please his flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; but the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. ... <a href="/2_corinthians/9-6.htm">2 Corinthians 9:6-7</a> Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. / Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver. <a href="/matthew/10-42.htm">Matthew 10:42</a> And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is My disciple, truly I tell you, he will never lose his reward.” <a href="/hebrews/13-16.htm">Hebrews 13:16</a> And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. <a href="/acts/20-35.htm">Acts 20:35</a> In everything, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” <a href="/1_corinthians/9-11.htm">1 Corinthians 9:11</a> If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much for us to reap a material harvest from you? <a href="/romans/15-27.htm">Romans 15:27</a> They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in their spiritual blessings, they are obligated to minister to them with material blessings. <a href="/2_kings/4-8.htm">2 Kings 4:8-10</a> One day Elisha went to Shunem, and a prominent woman who lived there persuaded him to have a meal. So whenever he would pass by, he would stop there to eat. / Then the woman said to her husband, “Behold, now I know that the one who often comes our way is a holy man of God. / Please let us make a small room upstairs and put in it a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp for him. Then when he comes to us, he can stay there.” <a href="/malachi/3-10.htm">Malachi 3:10</a> Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house. Test Me in this,” says the LORD of Hosts. “See if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.because.<a href="/philippians/4-11.htm">Philippians 4:11</a> Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.<a href="/malachi/1-10.htm">Malachi 1:10</a> Who is there even among you that would shut the doors for nought? neither do ye kindle fire on mine altar for nought. I have no pleasure in you, saith the LORD of hosts, neither will I accept an offering at your hand.<a href="/acts/20-33.htm">Acts 20:33,34</a> I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel… fruit.<a href="/philippians/1-11.htm">Philippians 1:11</a> Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.<a href="/micah/7-1.htm">Micah 7:1</a> Woe is me! for I am as when they have gathered the summer fruits, as the grapegleanings of the vintage: there is no cluster to eat: my soul desired the firstripe fruit.<a href="/john/15-8.htm">John 15:8,16</a> Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples… to.<a href="/proverbs/19-17.htm">Proverbs 19:17</a> He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.<a href="/matthew/10-40.htm">Matthew 10:40-42</a> He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me… <a href="/matthew/25-34.htm">Matthew 25:34-40</a> Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/philippians/4-12.htm">Abound</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-12.htm">Abounding</a> <a href="/philippians/1-26.htm">Abundant</a> <a href="/philippians/3-7.htm">Account</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-6.htm">Crave</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-1.htm">Credit</a> <a href="/galatians/3-6.htm">Credited</a> <a href="/philippians/2-26.htm">Desire</a> <a href="/philippians/1-22.htm">Fruit</a> <a href="/philippians/4-16.htm">Gift</a> <a href="/philippians/2-30.htm">Gifts</a> <a href="/philippians/2-29.htm">Honour</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-21.htm">Increases</a> <a href="/habakkuk/2-6.htm">Increaseth</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-13.htm">Itself</a> <a href="/philippians/2-17.htm">Offering</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">Overflowing</a> <a href="/philippians/3-7.htm">Profit</a> <a href="/philippians/2-21.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/philippians/4-11.htm">Want</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Abound</a> <a href="/colossians/2-7.htm">Abounding</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">Abundant</a> <a href="/colossians/1-5.htm">Account</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-2.htm">Crave</a> <a href="/james/2-23.htm">Credit</a> <a href="/james/2-23.htm">Credited</a> <a href="/colossians/1-9.htm">Desire</a> <a href="/colossians/1-6.htm">Fruit</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-14.htm">Gift</a> <a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Gifts</a> <a href="/colossians/2-23.htm">Honour</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/1-4.htm">Increases</a> <a href="/colossians/2-19.htm">Increaseth</a> <a href="/titus/2-11.htm">Itself</a> <a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Offering</a> <a href="/colossians/2-7.htm">Overflowing</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-8.htm">Profit</a> <a href="/colossians/3-1.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/colossians/2-1.htm">Want</a><div class="vheading2">Philippians 4</div>1. <a href="/philippians/4-1.htm">From particular admonitions,</a> 4. <a href="/philippians/4-4.htm">he proceeds to general exhortations,</a> 10. <a href="/philippians/4-10.htm">showing how he rejoiced at their generosity toward him while in prison.</a> 19. <a href="/philippians/4-19.htm">And so he concludes with prayer and salutations.</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/4.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/4.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Not that I am seeking a gift Paul clarifies his intentions to the Philippians, emphasizing that his primary concern is not personal gain. This reflects his broader teaching on contentment and reliance on God (<a href="/philippians/4-11.htm">Philippians 4:11-13</a>). In the cultural context of the time, patron-client relationships were common, where gifts often implied obligations. Paul distances himself from such expectations, focusing instead on spiritual matters.but I am looking for the fruit The term "fruit" is often used in Scripture to denote the results or evidence of a believer's life in Christ (<a href="/galatians/5-22.htm">Galatians 5:22-23</a>). Here, Paul is interested in the spiritual growth and maturity of the Philippians, which is evidenced by their generosity and support for his ministry. This aligns with Jesus' teaching on bearing fruit as a sign of true discipleship (<a href="/john/15-5.htm">John 15:5-8</a>).that may be credited to your account Paul uses financial imagery to describe spiritual rewards. This metaphor suggests that their generosity is not just a temporal act but has eternal significance. It echoes Jesus' teaching on storing up treasures in heaven (<a href="/matthew/6-19.htm">Matthew 6:19-21</a>). The idea of a heavenly account implies that God notices and rewards acts of faith and love, reinforcing the principle of sowing and reaping found in <a href="/2_corinthians/9-6.htm">2 Corinthians 9:6-8</a>.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle who wrote the letter to the Philippians. He is expressing gratitude for their support while emphasizing his focus on their spiritual growth rather than material gifts. 2. <a href="/topical/p/philippians.htm">Philippians</a> The recipients of the letter, a Christian community in Philippi known for their generosity and partnership in the gospel. 3. <a href="/topical/p/philippi.htm">Philippi</a> A city in Macedonia, significant as one of the first places in Europe where Paul established a church. 4. <a href="/topical/e/epaphroditus.htm">Epaphroditus</a> A member of the Philippian church who delivered their gifts to Paul and is mentioned in the context of their support. 5. <a href="/topical/r/roman_imprisonment.htm">Roman Imprisonment</a> The context in which Paul writes this letter, as he is under house arrest in Rome.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/s/spiritual_priorities_over_material_gifts.htm">Spiritual Priorities Over Material Gifts</a> Paul emphasizes that his joy comes not from receiving gifts but from seeing the spiritual growth and fruit in the lives of the Philippians. This teaches us to prioritize spiritual development over material wealth. <a href="/topical/g/generosity_as_a_spiritual_investment.htm">Generosity as a Spiritual Investment</a> The Philippians' generosity is seen as an investment in their spiritual account. Our giving should be motivated by a desire to see spiritual growth and kingdom advancement. <a href="/topical/e/eternal_perspective.htm">Eternal Perspective</a> Paul encourages an eternal perspective, where the focus is on what is credited to our heavenly account. This challenges us to evaluate our actions and investments in light of eternity. <a href="/topical/p/partnership_in_the_gospel.htm">Partnership in the Gospel</a> The relationship between Paul and the Philippians exemplifies a partnership in the gospel, where mutual support and encouragement lead to spiritual fruitfulness.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_philippians_4.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Philippians 4</a> <a href="/q/how_to_wisely_use_your_resources.htm">How do you wisely use your given resources?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_deem_immoral.htm">What are the consequences of our actions according to scripture?</a> <a href="/q/how_does_the_bible_depict_lions'_power.htm">How does fellowship strengthen our faith and community?</a> <a href="/q/how_does_1_cor_9_4-14_align_with_matt_10_8-10.htm">In 1 Corinthians 9:4–14, Paul argues for financial support for apostles; how does that align with Jesus’s command in Matthew 10:8–10 to preach without seeking material gain?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/philippians/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(17) Fruit that may abound (rather, abounds) to your account.--The metaphor is still kept, hardly disturbed by the introduction of the word "fruit," since this is so constantly used in the sense of "recompense" that it readily lends itself to pecuniary associations. There is, says St. Paul, "the fruit" of reward, which "is over" as a surplus, or rather a balance, "placed to their account." Their gift is a token of love and gratitude to him; but, as Christian almsgiving, it is something more, and what that something more is will be seen hereafter, when all accounts shall be finally taken. The idea is not unlike that of <a href="/proverbs/19-17.htm" title="He that has pity on the poor lends to the LORD; and that which he has given will he pay him again.">Proverbs 19:17</a>, "He that hath pity on the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and behold, what he layeth out it shall be paid him again."<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/philippians/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 17. - Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account; rather, as R.V., not that I seek for the gift; but I seek for the fruit that creaseth to your account. He shrinks sensitively from the danger of being mistaken; his words are not to be understood as a hint for further gifts. It is not the gift that he desires; but there is something which he longs for, and that is, charity, the fruit of the Spirit, showing itself in the generosity of the Philippians - the fruit of good works, continually increasing, and set down in heaven to their account. <a href="/commentaries/philippians/4-17.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Not Οὐχ (Ouch) 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. that ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. I am seeking ἐπιζητῶ (epizētō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1934.htm">Strong's 1934: </a> To seek after, desire, search for, make inquiries about. From epi and zeteo; to search for; intensively, to demand, to crave. a τὸ (to) Article - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. gift, δόμα (doma) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1390.htm">Strong's 1390: </a> A gift, present. From the base of didomi; a present. 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. I am looking for ἐπιζητῶ (epizētō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1934.htm">Strong's 1934: </a> To seek after, desire, search for, make inquiries about. From epi and zeteo; to search for; intensively, to demand, to crave. the τὸν (ton) Article - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. fruit καρπὸν (karpon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2590.htm">Strong's 2590: </a> Probably from the base of harpazo; fruit, literally or figuratively. that τὸν (ton) Article - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. may be credited πλεονάζοντα (pleonazonta) Verb - Present Participle Active - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4121.htm">Strong's 4121: </a> From pleion; to do, make or be more, i.e. Increase; by extension, to superabound. to εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. your ὑμῶν (hymōn) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. account. λόγον (logon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3056.htm">Strong's 3056: </a> From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/philippians/4-17.htm">Philippians 4:17 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/philippians/4-17.htm">Philippians 4:17 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/philippians/4-17.htm">Philippians 4:17 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/philippians/4-17.htm">Philippians 4:17 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/philippians/4-17.htm">Philippians 4:17 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/philippians/4-17.htm">Philippians 4:17 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/philippians/4-17.htm">Philippians 4:17 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/philippians/4-17.htm">Philippians 4:17 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/philippians/4-17.htm">Philippians 4:17 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/philippians/4-17.htm">Philippians 4:17 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/philippians/4-17.htm">NT Letters: Philippians 4:17 Not that I seek for the gift (Philipp. Phil. Php.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/philippians/4-16.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Philippians 4:16"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Philippians 4:16" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/philippians/4-18.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Philippians 4:18"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Philippians 4:18" /></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>