For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Philippians 2:20
What does Philippians 2:20 mean?
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Philippians 2:20
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Paul isn't just saying Timothy is a good guy; he's highlighting Timothy's unique, heartfelt dedication. The Greek word translated "genuinely concerned" is rare, emphasizing a pure, unfeigned care for the Philippians' well-being, a trait Paul found nowhere else among his companions. This wasn't just professional duty; it was a deep, almost parental, solicitude for their spiritual state.
For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is explaining his eagerness to send Timothy to the Philippian church, emphasizing that Timothy is uniquely suited for this task. He trusts that Timothy will offer genuine care and concern for their well-being, acting as a true partner in the faith. This deepens the plea for the Philippians to receive Timothy wholeheartedly, just as they would receive Paul himself.
Paul says Timothy is 'like-minded.' What does that really mean in the context of serving God and others? It's more than just nodding heads in agreement.
Paul uses a unique Greek word, 'isopsychon,' which literally means 'same-souled.' This isn't just about agreeing on doctrines or having similar opinions. It points to a deep, shared spirit and affection, a oneness of heart.
Think of it as having the same 'software' running your emotional and spiritual life. It means Timothy’s inner being resonated with Paul’s. This shared soul led to a shared purpose and a deep, mutual understanding, making Timothy an invaluable partner in ministry.
Paul highlights Timothy's 'genuine concern.' What makes this care so special and rare? It's rooted in sincerity, not obligation.
The word translated 'genuinely' comes from a Greek term that means 'true,' 'real,' or 'sincere.' It stands in contrast to anything false, counterfeit, or merely for show.
Timothy's concern for the Philippians wasn't just a professional duty; it was a heartfelt, authentic care. This 'anxious care,' as some translations put it, wasn't a burden but a reflection of his deep love for God and His people. It's the kind of care that proactively seeks the well-being of others, especially those in the church family.
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psuche · Greek Noun
The state of one's spiritual, physical, or emotional well-being. Biblical concern for welfare involves active, sacrificial care for the needs of others, reflecting the love of Christ.
This verse reveals Timothy's deep, long-standing connection with Paul, forged over years of shared ministry and hardship. Paul's genuine affection and trust in Timothy's sincere concern for the Philippians highlight the profound personal relationships that underpinned early Christian mission.
c. AD 49
Paul and Barnabas at Lystra
Paul and Barnabas ministered in Lystra, where Timothy, a young disciple with a Jewish mother and Greek father, likely came to faith.
c. AD 49-50
Timothy Joins Paul's Ministry
Timothy joins Paul and Silas (after Barnabas leaves) on their missionary journeys, becoming a key companion and protégé.
c. AD 50-52
Ministry in Corinth
During Paul's extended stay in Corinth, Timothy assists him, further solidifying their bond and his understanding of the Gospel.
c. AD 55-57
Letter to Corinth
Paul mentions Timothy in his first letter to the Corinthians, indicating Timothy's continued close association and trusted ministry.
c. AD 60-62— this verse
Imprisonment in Rome
While Paul is imprisoned in Rome, Timothy is with him, participating in his ministry and helping to pen letters.
c. AD 65-67
Instruction to Timothy
Paul writes his final letter, 2 Timothy, during his second Roman imprisonment, offering personal instructions and encouragement.
This passage speaks about members of the body of Christ caring for one another, mirroring Timothy's genuine concern for the Philippians' welfare.
1 Timothy 1:2Paul calls Timothy his 'genuine son in the faith,' highlighting the deep, sincere affection and shared spirit that Paul saw in Timothy, which explains why he's like-minded and so concerned for the Philippians.
Romans 15:14Paul describes believers as being 'full of goodness, and filled with all knowledge,' able to admonish one another. This echoes the capability and genuine character Paul attributes to Timothy, making him suitable to send.
2 Corinthians 8:8Paul mentions proving the 'sincerity' of the Corinthians' love, using the same Greek word translated as 'genuinely' or 'sincerely' for Timothy's concern here, emphasizing authentic spiritual character.
vincentPhilippians 2:20: "For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state."
Like minded (ἰσόψυχον)Only here in the New Testament. With Paul himself, not Timothy.Who (ὅστις)Double relative, classifying: such that he.Naturally (ψνησίως)Rev., truly. The adverb only here in the New Testament. The kindred adjective γνήσιος true, own, occurs 1 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4; 2 Corinthians 8:8 (see note).
gillPhilippians 2:20: "For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state."
For I have no man likeminded,.... With myself; as my soul, so the Syriac version renders it. Timothy had a soul like the apostle's, which none that were with him, besides him, had; he was of the same judgment with him in the doctrines of grace; he received and preached the same Gospel as he did; he preached the same Christ, the Son of God, without yea and nay; he had the same affection for the apostle, and…
Paul isn't just saying Timothy is a good guy; he's highlighting Timothy's unique, heartfelt dedication. The Greek word translated "genuinely concerned" is rare, emphasizing a pure, unfeigned care for the Philippians' well-being, a trait Paul found nowhere else among his companions. This wasn't just professional duty; it was a deep, almost parental, solicitude for their spiritual state.
Paul is explaining his eagerness to send Timothy to the Philippian church, emphasizing that Timothy is uniquely suited for this task. He trusts that Timothy will offer genuine care and concern for their well-being, acting as a true partner in the faith. This deepens the plea for the Philippians to receive Timothy wholeheartedly, just as they would receive Paul himself.
Paul is explaining his eagerness to send Timothy to the Philippian church, emphasizing that Timothy is uniquely suited for this task. He trusts that Timothy will offer genuine care and concern for their well-being, acting as a true partner in the faith. This deepens the plea for the Philippians to receive Timothy wholeheartedly, just as they would receive Paul himself.
"For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare." — Paul isn't just saying Timothy is a good guy; he's highlighting Timothy's unique, heartfelt dedication. The Greek word translated "genuinely concerned" is rare, emphasizing a pure, unfeigned care for…
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Last reviewed October 2026