Philippians 2:16
New International Version
as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.

New Living Translation
Hold firmly to the word of life; then, on the day of Christ’s return, I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless.

English Standard Version
holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.

Berean Standard Bible
as you hold forth the word of life, in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.

Berean Literal Bible
holding forth the word of life unto a boast to me in the day of Christ that I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.

King James Bible
Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

New King James Version
holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.

New American Standard Bible
holding firmly the word of life, so that on the day of Christ I can take pride because I did not run in vain nor labor in vain.

NASB 1995
holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I will have reason to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.

NASB 1977
holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may have cause to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.

Legacy Standard Bible
holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I will have reason to boast because I did not run in vain nor labor in vain.

Amplified Bible
holding out and offering to everyone the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I will have reason to rejoice greatly because I did not run [my race] in vain nor labor without result.

Christian Standard Bible
by holding firm to the word of life. Then I can boast in the day of Christ that I didn’t run or labor for nothing.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Hold firmly to the message of life. Then I can boast in the day of Christ that I didn’t run or labor for nothing.

American Standard Version
holding forth the word of life; that I may have whereof to glory in the day of Christ, that I did not run in vain neither labor in vain.

Contemporary English Version
as you hold firmly to the message that gives life. Then on the day when Christ returns, I can take pride in you. I can also know that my work and efforts were not useless.

English Revised Version
holding forth the word of life; that I may have whereof to glory in the day of Christ, that I did not run in vain neither labour in vain.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
as you hold firmly to the word of life. Then I can brag on the day of Christ that my effort was not wasted and that my work produced results.

Good News Translation
as you offer them the message of life. If you do so, I shall have reason to be proud of you on the Day of Christ, because it will show that all my effort and work have not been wasted.

International Standard Version
as you hold firmly to the word of life. Then I will be proud when the Messiah returns that I did not run in vain or work hard in vain.

Majority Standard Bible
as you hold forth the word of life, in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.

NET Bible
by holding on to the word of life so that on the day of Christ I will have a reason to boast that I did not run in vain nor labor in vain.

New Heart English Bible
holding up the word of life; that I may have something to boast in the day of Christ, that I did not run in vain nor labor in vain.

Webster's Bible Translation
Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.

Weymouth New Testament
holding out to them a Message of Life. It will then be my glory on the day of Christ that I did not run my race in vain nor toil in vain.

World English Bible
holding up the word of life, that I may have something to boast in the day of Christ that I didn’t run in vain nor labor in vain.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
holding forth the word of life, for rejoicing to me in regard to [the] Day of Christ, that I did not run in vain, nor did I labor in vain;

Berean Literal Bible
holding forth the word of life unto a boast to me in the day of Christ that I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.

Young's Literal Translation
the word of life holding forth, for rejoicing to me in regard to a day of Christ, that not in vain did I run, nor in vain did I labour;

Smith's Literal Translation
Holding on to the word of life; for boasting to me in the day of Christ, for I ran not in vain, nor was I wearied in vain.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Holding forth the word of life to my glory in the day of Christ, because I have not run in vain, nor laboured in vain.

Catholic Public Domain Version
holding to the Word of Life, until my glory in the day of Christ. For I have not run in vain, nor have I labored in vain.

New American Bible
as you hold on to the word of life, so that my boast for the day of Christ may be that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.

New Revised Standard Version
It is by your holding fast to the word of life that I can boast on the day of Christ that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
For you are to them the light of life; for my pride and glory in the day of Christ, for I have not run in vain nor labored in vain.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
For you are in the place of life to them, unto my boasting in the day of The Messiah, because I have not run for nothing, neither have I labored worthlessly.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
holding forth the word of life, that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I did not run in vain, nor labor in vain.

Godbey New Testament
having the word of life; unto my boasting in the day of Christ, because I did not run in vain, neither did I labor in vain.

Haweis New Testament
holding up the word of life, that I may glory in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, nor laboured in vain.

Mace New Testament
you, who display the doctrine of eternal life) that in the day of Christ I may have the satisfaction of not having pursued my laborious course in vain.

Weymouth New Testament
holding out to them a Message of Life. It will then be my glory on the day of Christ that I did not run my race in vain nor toil in vain.

Worrell New Testament
holding forth the word of life, for an occasion of glorying to me at the day of Christ, that I ran not in vain, neither labored in vain.

Worsley New Testament
exhibiting the word of life; to my rejoicing in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, nor laboured in vain.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Shining as Stars
15so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world 16as you hold forth the word of life, in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. 17But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.…

Cross References
1 Corinthians 1:18
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

2 Timothy 4:7-8
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. / From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but to all who crave His appearing.

Galatians 2:2
I went in response to a revelation and set before them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. But I spoke privately to those recognized as leaders, for fear that I was running or had already run in vain.

1 Thessalonians 2:19-20
After all, who is our hope, our joy, our crown of boasting, if it is not you yourselves in the presence of our Lord Jesus at His coming? / You are indeed our glory and our joy.

2 Corinthians 1:14
as you have already understood us in part, that you may boast of us just as we will boast of you in the day of our Lord Jesus.

Hebrews 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. / Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize. / Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable. / Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air. ...

2 Timothy 2:15
Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth.

John 6:68
Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words of eternal life.

1 Peter 1:23
For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.

Isaiah 55:11
so My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it.

Daniel 12:3
Then the wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever and ever.

Proverbs 4:18
The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining brighter and brighter until midday.

Isaiah 49:4
But I said, “I have labored in vain, I have spent My strength in futility and vanity; yet My vindication is with the LORD, and My reward is with My God.”

Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.


Treasury of Scripture

Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.

Holding.

Philippians 1:27
Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

Psalm 40:9
I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest.

Psalm 71:17
O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works.

the word.

John 6:63,68
It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life…

Acts 13:26
Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent.

2 Timothy 2:15-17
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth…

that I may.

Philippians 1:26
That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.

2 Corinthians 1:14
As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 2:19
For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?

that I have.

Isaiah 49:4
Then I said, I have laboured in vain, I have spent my strength for nought, and in vain: yet surely my judgment is with the LORD, and my work with my God.

1 Corinthians 9:26
I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:

Galatians 2:2
And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.

Jump to Previous
Boast Christ Effect Fast Forth Glory Hold Holding Labored Life Message Offering Order Proud Race Reason Regard Rejoice Rejoicing Run Running Something Toil Vain Whereof Word Work
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Boast Christ Effect Fast Forth Glory Hold Holding Labored Life Message Offering Order Proud Race Reason Regard Rejoice Rejoicing Run Running Something Toil Vain Whereof Word Work
Philippians 2
1. Paul exhorts them to unity, and to all humbleness of mind, by the example of Christ's humility;
12. to a careful proceeding in the way of salvation, that they be as lights to a wicked world,
16. and comforts to him their apostle, who is now ready to be offered up to God.
19. He hopes to send Timothy to them, and Epaphroditus also.














as you hold forth
The phrase "hold forth" comes from the Greek word "epechō," which means to hold out or present. In the context of Philippians, it suggests an active and intentional effort to present or offer something valuable. The imagery here is of believers actively presenting the "word of life" to the world, much like a beacon of light in darkness. Historically, this reflects the early Christian mission to spread the Gospel amidst a predominantly pagan society. The act of holding forth implies a steadfast commitment to sharing the truth of the Gospel, despite opposition or challenges.

the word of life
The "word of life" refers to the Gospel message, which is the good news of Jesus Christ. In Greek, "logos" (word) and "zōē" (life) together emphasize the life-giving power of the Gospel. This phrase underscores the transformative nature of the message of Christ, which brings spiritual life and renewal. Theologically, it points to the centrality of Christ's teachings and the salvation He offers. The "word of life" is not just a message to be heard but a living truth to be embraced and lived out, offering eternal life to those who believe.

in order that I may boast
The Greek word for "boast" is "kauchaomai," which can mean to glory or rejoice. Paul is expressing a desire for a legitimate sense of pride or joy in the faithfulness of the Philippians. This is not a boast in human achievement but a rejoicing in what God has accomplished through them. It reflects a deep pastoral concern and investment in their spiritual well-being. Historically, boasting in this context is not about personal accolades but about the success of the Gospel mission and the faithfulness of the community in living out their faith.

on the day of Christ
The "day of Christ" refers to the eschatological event of Christ's return, a central hope in Christian theology. This phrase is rooted in the expectation of the Second Coming, when Christ will return to judge the living and the dead. For Paul, this day is a culmination of his ministry efforts and the ultimate validation of his work. The anticipation of this day serves as a motivation for believers to live faithfully and diligently, knowing that their labor in the Lord is not in vain.

that I did not run or labor in vain
The imagery of "run" and "labor" evokes the metaphor of athletic competition and hard work. The Greek words "trechō" (run) and "kopiaō" (labor) suggest exertion and effort. Paul often uses athletic metaphors to describe the Christian life as a race requiring discipline and perseverance. The concern of running or laboring "in vain" reflects a desire for meaningful and fruitful ministry. Historically, this echoes the dedication of early Christian leaders who faced persecution and hardship, yet remained committed to their mission. The assurance that their efforts are not in vain is rooted in the hope of the resurrection and the eternal impact of their work in Christ.

(16) Holding forth the word of life.--This translation seems correct, and the reference is to the comparison above. There may, indeed, be (as has been supposed) a reference, involving a change of metaphor, to the holding forth of a torch, for guidance, or for transmission, as in the celebrated torch race of ancient times. But this supposed change of metaphor is unnecessary. The "luminaries" hold forth their light to men, and that light is the "word of life." Note the same connection in John 1:4, "In Him was life, and the life was the light of men."

The word of life.--The phrase "the word of life" is remarkable. Here it signifies, of course, the gospel of Christ. But the gradual progress of this expression should be noted. Of Him His disciples declared that He "has the words" (i.e., the expressed words; see Note on Ephesians 6:17) "of eternal life" (John 6:68); He Himself goes further, and declares that His words are themselves spirit and life (John 6:63); here the gospel, as giving that knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ which is "eternal life" (John 17:3), is a "word of life;" and all these lead up to the final declaration that He Himself is "the Word of life" (1John 1:1). . . .

Verse 16. - Holding forth the word of life. Holding out to others. Meyer translates "possessing," and others, as Bengel, "holding fast. This clause should be taken with the first clause of Ver. 15, "That ye may be blameless," etc., he the words, "among whom," etc.. he being parenthetical. That I may rejoice in the day of Christ; literally, for matter of boasting to me against the day of Christ. He boasts or glories in their salvation. "The day of Christ," says Bishop Lightfoot, "is a phrase peculiar to this Epistle, more commonly it is ' the day of the Lord.'" That I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain; translate, did not. The verbs me aorist. He looks back upon his finished course (comp. Galatians 2:2).

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
as you hold forth
ἐπέχοντες (epechontes)
Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 1907: From epi and echo; to hold upon, i.e. to retain; to detain; to pay attention to.

[the] word
λόγον (logon)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3056: From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.

of life,
ζωῆς (zōēs)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 2222: Life, both of physical (present) and of spiritual (particularly future) existence. From zao; life.

in order that
εἰς (eis)
Preposition
Strong's 1519: A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.

I
ἐμοὶ (emoi)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1473: I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.

may boast
καύχημα (kauchēma)
Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 2745: A boasting; a ground of boasting (glorying, exultation). From kauchaomai; a boast in a good or a bad sense.

on
εἰς (eis)
Preposition
Strong's 1519: A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.

[the] day
ἡμέραν (hēmeran)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 2250: A day, the period from sunrise to sunset.

of Christ
Χριστοῦ (Christou)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 5547: Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.

that
ὅτι (hoti)
Conjunction
Strong's 3754: Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.

I did not run
ἔδραμον (edramon)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 5143: Apparently a primary verb; which uses dremo drem'-o as alternate in certain tenses; to run or walk hastily.

[or]
οὐδὲ (oude)
Conjunction
Strong's 3761: Neither, nor, not even, and not. From ou and de; not however, i.e. Neither, nor, not even.

labor
ἐκοπίασα (ekopiasa)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 2872: From a derivative of kopos; to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard.

in
εἰς (eis)
Preposition
Strong's 1519: A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.

vain.
κενὸν (kenon)
Adjective - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 2756: Apparently a primary word; empty.


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NT Letters: Philippians 2:16 Holding up the word of life (Philipp. Phil. Php.)
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