NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need.
19 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Philippians 4:16 — 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 even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.
12 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.
13 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once.
12 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
Even while I was in Thessalonica, you helped out—and not only once, but twice.
14 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
for even in Thessalonica you sent [a gift] more than once for my needs.
14 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
19 words
KJV
12 words
ESV
13 words
NLT
12 words
MSG
14 words
NASB
14 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Philippians 4:16?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Philippians 4:16 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 4:16 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.