NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
10 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Philippians 2:18 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.
12 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.
10 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy.
10 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
But turnabout's fair play—you must join me in my rejoicing. Whatever you do, don't feel sorry for me.
18 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
You too, [I urge you], rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me.
16 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
10 words
KJV
12 words
ESV
10 words
NLT
10 words
MSG
18 words
NASB
16 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Philippians 2:18?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Philippians 2:18 in 6 translations: New International Version, King James Version, English Standard Version, New Living Translation, The Message, New American Standard Bible. Each uses a different translation philosophy — from word-for-word (KJV, ESV, NASB) to thought-for-thought (NIV, NLT) to paraphrase (MSG).
Which translation of Philippians 2:18 is best?
No single translation is "best" — it depends on your purpose. For deep study, use the ESV or NASB (word-for-word). For devotional reading, the NIV balances accuracy and readability. The NLT and MSG are excellent for understanding the general meaning in modern English. Comparing multiple translations helps grasp the full richness of the text.
What is the difference between literal and dynamic Bible translations?
Literal (formal equivalence) translations like KJV, ESV, and NASB translate word-for-word from the original Hebrew/Greek. Dynamic equivalence translations like NIV and NLT translate thought-for-thought for clarity. The MSG is a paraphrase that captures the spirit in contemporary language. Each approach has strengths — that's why comparing translations is valuable.