King James Version

What Does Philippians 4:5 Mean?

Philippians 4:5 in the King James Version says “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. — study this verse from Philippians chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

Philippians 4:5 · KJV


Context

3

And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.

4

Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.

5

Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

6

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

To epieikes ("gentleness, reasonableness, forbearance") visible to all. Ho kyrios engys ("the Lord is near")—spatially (omnipresent) or temporally (imminent return). Likely latter: Parousia-expectation moderates conflict. This verse contributes to Philippians chapter 4's themes of joy, peace, contentment, and gratitude—Paul's prison epistle climax showing joy transcending circumstances through Christ's sufficiency.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Philippians chapter 4 concludes Paul's most joyful letter, written from Roman imprisonment (c. AD 60-62). The Philippian church, Paul's most faithful financial partner, sent support via Epaphroditus. Paul's gratitude, exhortations to joy and peace, and contentment teaching modeled Christ-centered living regardless of external circumstances—a powerful witness in the Roman world.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse challenge your perspective on Gentleness and imminence?
  2. What specific application can you make from this teaching this week?
  3. How does this verse point to Christ's sufficiency in all circumstances?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 9 words
τὸ1 of 9
G3588

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

ἐπιεικὲς2 of 9

moderation

G1933

appropriate, i.e., (by implication) mild

ὑμῶν3 of 9

your

G5216

of (from or concerning) you

γνωσθήτω4 of 9

Let

G1097

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

πᾶσιν5 of 9

unto all

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

ἀνθρώποις6 of 9

men

G444

man-faced, i.e., a human being

7 of 9
G3588

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

κύριος8 of 9

The Lord

G2962

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

ἐγγύς9 of 9

is at hand

G1451

near (literally or figuratively, of place or time)


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 4:5 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 4:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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