King James Version

What Does Philippians 2:20 Mean?

Philippians 2:20 in the King James Version says “For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. likeminded: or, so dear unto me” — study this verse from Philippians chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. likeminded: or, so dear unto me”

Philippians 2:20 · KJV

Context

18

For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.

19

But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state. But: or, Moreover

20

For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. likeminded: or, so dear unto me

21

For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.

22

But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel.

Read Philippians 2 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state (οὐδένα γὰρ ἔχω ἰσόψυχον ὅστις γνησίως τὰ περὶ ὑμῶν μεριμνήσει, oudena gar echō isopsychon hostis gnēsiōs ta peri hymōn merimnēsei)—Oudena...isopsychon ("no one like-souled") is striking. Isopsychon (hapax legomenon: isos, "equal," + psychē, "soul") means sharing Paul's mindset/spirit. Only Timothy matches Paul's pastoral concern. Gnēsiōs ("genuinely, sincerely") contrasts superficial concern. Merimnēsei (future, "will care for") comes from merimnaō ("be anxious, care for")—earnest concern.

This verse reveals Timothy's exceptional character: he genuinely cares for others' welfare, not his own interests (v. 21). Paul's comment implies others in Rome (even believers) lacked this other-centeredness. Timothy exemplifies 2:3-4 (esteem others, look to their interests). He embodies the Christ-hymn's self-giving pattern. Paul commends Timothy not abstractly but relationally—proven care for Philippians.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Paul's Roman companions included many (Col 4:7-14), yet only Timothy merited this commendation. This suggests widespread self-interest even among Christian workers—a sobering reality. Timothy's proven track record (Acts 16-20; 1 Cor 16:10; Phil 2:22) earned Paul's trust. Ancient patronage culture bred self-promotion; Timothy's genuine care was countercultural Christlikeness.

Reflection Questions

  1. Who in your life is 'like-souled' (isopsychon)—sharing your deepest values and concerns?
  2. How can you cultivate 'genuine' (gnēsiōs) care for others versus superficial or self-serving concern?
  3. What would others say about your concern for their 'state' (ta peri hymōn)—is it earnest or casual?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
οὐδένα1 of 10

“no man”

G3762

not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e., none, nobody, nothing

γὰρ2 of 10

“For”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἔχω3 of 10

“I have”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

ἰσόψυχον4 of 10

“likeminded”

G2473

of similar spirit

ὅστις5 of 10

“who”

G3748

which some, i.e., any that; also (definite) which same

γνησίως6 of 10

“will naturally”

G1104

genuinely, i.e., really

τὰ7 of 10
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

περὶ8 of 10

“state”

G4012

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

ὑμῶν9 of 10

“for your”

G5216

of (from or concerning) you

μεριμνήσει·10 of 10

“care”

G3309

to be anxious about

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Philippians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Philippians 2:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Philippians 2:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Philippians 2:21 Corinthians 16:10Philippians 2:22John 12:62 Timothy 1:5John 10:13

Test Your Knowledge

Philippians 2 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterPhilippians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Philippians 2 with CommentaryAll Philippians ChaptersComplete Philippians QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes