# Connecting Statement:

Paul continues with some specific instructions to the believers in Philippi on unity and then gives instructions to help them live for the Lord.

# Therefore, my beloved brothers whom I long for

"So, my fellow believers whom I love and greatly desire to see"

# brothers

See how you translated this in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md).

# my joy and crown

Paul uses the word "joy" to mean that the Philippian church is the cause of his happiness. A "crown" was made of leaves, and a man wore it on his head as a sign of honor after he won an important game. Here the word "crown" means the Philippian church brought honor to Paul before God. Alternate translation: "You give me joy because you have believed in Jesus, and you are my reward and honor for my work" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metonymy]])

# in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved friends

"continue living for the Lord in the way that I have taught you, dear friends"