Philippians 4:21-22
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Paul’s instruction to greet "every saint" highlights that inclusivity in Christ isn't an afterthought, but a fundamental part of his closing. The "brethren with me" likely refers to a closer circle, distinct from the broader church, emphasizing that even within close-knit groups, there’s a recognition of all who belong to Christ.
Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul closes his letter with a warm wave of greetings, first to all the believers in Philippi, reminding them of their shared identity in Christ. Then, he passes along greetings from the Christian brothers who are with him in Rome, a personal touch from his immediate companions.
Paul's final words are not just a polite closing. He instructs the Philippians to greet 'every saint.' What does this sweeping inclusion mean for how we see fellow believers today?
A Broad Embrace
Paul doesn't just say 'greet the leaders' or 'greet your friends.' The word translated 'every saint' literally means 'each and every one.' This isn't about a select few; it's about acknowledging every single person who belongs to Christ.
Why 'Every Saint'?
Paul mentions 'the brethren which are with me.' Who were these people, and why is their greeting significant at the end of this letter?
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A Shared Ministry
The 'brethren with me' refers to the companions and fellow workers who were physically present with Paul as he wrote from Rome. These weren't just random acquaintances; they were part of his ministry team.
Significance of Their Greeting
Understand the original words
aspazomai · Greek Verb
To welcome, salute, or express Christian affection and fellowship, often conveying a sense of unity and shared identity in the faith.
hagios · Greek Noun/Adjective
A believer in Jesus Christ; one who has been set apart or consecrated to God through faith, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
adelphos · Greek Noun
A term used to describe fellow Christians or those who share a spiritual bond; often implies a relationship of mutual support, equality, and shared mission under the authority of Christ.
kaisar, oikia · Greek Noun phrase
The imperial staff or officials serving in the palace of the Roman Emperor; denotes a cross-section of society including servants and officials who have come to faith in Christ.
This letter, written from Roman imprisonment, ends with warm greetings, highlighting the sense of community and shared faith among believers, even those connected to the imperial household.
c. AD 55
Paul Imprisoned in Rome
The Apostle Paul is under house arrest in Rome, able to receive visitors and preach the Gospel, though his freedom is restricted. This period allows him to write several epistles, including Philippians.
c. AD 57-60— this verse
Paul Writes Philippians from Rome
During his Roman imprisonment, Paul pens the letter to the Philippians, expressing his deep affection and gratitude for their support. The letter is sent back to the church in Philippi.
c. AD 60-62
Epaphroditus Returns to Philippi
Epaphroditus, who had brought a gift from the Philippians to Paul in Rome, recovers from illness and is sent back to Philippi, likely carrying Paul's letter with him.
c. AD 64
Great Fire of Rome
A devastating fire sweeps through Rome. Emperor Nero blames the Christians, initiating the first major imperial persecution of the church.
c. AD 64-67
Paul's Final Imprisonment and Execution
Following Nero's persecution, Paul is likely arrested again, enduring a harsher imprisonment. He is eventually martyred in Rome, possibly by beheading.
This passage shows Paul sending greetings to specific individuals and house churches, mirroring the personal, relational aspect of greetings in Philippians, but with more specific names.
1 Corinthians 16:19-20Paul mentions greetings from Priscilla and Aquila and 'all the brothers' here, similar to the general and specific greetings given in Philippians, highlighting the communal aspect of Christian fellowship.
2 Corinthians 13:12-13This closing passage uses 'All the saints send you greetings,' directly paralleling the inclusive salutation in Philippians and emphasizing unity within the body of Christ.
Acts 28:21Before concluding his letter from Rome, Paul mentions the Jewish believers who came to meet him, showing a context where 'brothers' could refer to fellow Jewish Christians, similar to the possible implication in Philippians 4:21.
henryPhilippians 4:20-23: "Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen."
4:20-23 The apostle ends with praises to God. We should look upon God, under all our weakness and fears, not as an enemy, but as a Father, disposed to pity us and help us. We must give glory to God as a Father. God's grace and favour, which reconciled souls enjoy, with the whole of the graces in us, which flow from it, are all purchased for us by Christ's merit, and applied by his pleading for us; and therefore…
gillPhilippians 4:21: "Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you."
Salute every saint in Christ Jesus,.... Meaning at Philippi, whether rich or poor, lesser or greater believers, common saints, as well as the officers of the church, bishops and deacons; who were in Christ by electing grace, and as their covenant head, and representative from everlasting, and which was manifested and made known by their conversion and the effectual calling: the brethren which are w…
Paul’s instruction to greet "every saint" highlights that inclusivity in Christ isn't an afterthought, but a fundamental part of his closing. The "brethren with me" likely refers to a closer circle, distinct from the broader church, emphasizing that even within close-knit groups, there’s a recognition of all who belong to Christ.
Paul closes his letter with a warm wave of greetings, first to all the believers in Philippi, reminding them of their shared identity in Christ. Then, he passes along greetings from the Christian brothers who are with him in Rome, a personal touch from his immediate companions.
Paul closes his letter with a warm wave of greetings, first to all the believers in Philippi, reminding them of their shared identity in Christ. Then, he passes along greetings from the Christian brothers who are with him in Rome, a personal touch from his immediate companions.
"Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household." — Paul’s instruction to greet "every saint" highlights that inclusivity in Christ isn't an afterthought, but a fundamental part of his closing. The "brethren with me" likely refers to a closer circle,…
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Last reviewed October 2026
