18. But I have all things and abound: I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things that came from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God.

Translation and Paraphrase

18. Nonetheless (as a result of your gift) I (now) have all things (which I need) and (indeed) I have more than enough. I (who have at times been hungry am (now) filled, because I received the (gift) from you (which was delivered) by Epaphroditus. (Your gift is) an odor of a sweet smell (like the Old Testament sacrifices), a sacrifice acceptable (and) well-pleasing to God.

Notes

1.

The Philippians-' gift must have been generous and substantial, for Paul writes that he now has all things, and even abounds (that is, he has some left over).

2.

Regarding Epaphroditus and his work, see notes on Philippians 2:25-30.

3.

When giving is rightly done, it can be a sacrifice much like the Old Testament sacrifices. Except that it is not a blood sacrifice, it can resemble the ancient sacrifices in nearly every way. Compare Hebrews 13:16.

The expression an odor of a sweet smell is frequently used in the Old Testament to refer to animal sacrifices. Compare Ephesians 5:2; Genesis 8:21; Leviticus 26:31; Leviticus 1:9; Leviticus 1:13; Leviticus 1:17.

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