Albert Barnes Commentary Philippians 4:18

"But I have all things, and abound: I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things [that came] from you, and odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God." — Philippians 4:18 (ASV)

But I have all. The marginal note says, "or, have received." The phrase here is equivalent to: "I have received everything. I have all I want, and desire no more." He was entirely satisfied. What they had sent to him is, of course, now unknown. It is sufficient to know that it was of such a nature as to make his situation comfortable.

I am full. I have enough. This is a strong expression, denoting that nothing was lacking.

Having received from Epaphroditus. (See the notes on Philippians 2:25).

An odour of a sweet smell. This does not mean that it was such an odour to Paul, but to God. He regarded it as an offering which they had made to God himself, and he was persuaded that God would regard it as acceptable to him. They had doubtless made the offering, not merely from personal friendship for Paul, but because he was a minister of Christ and from love to his cause; and Paul felt assured that this offering would be acceptable to God. .

The word "odour" refers, properly, to the pleasant fragrance produced in the temple by the burning of incense. (See the notes on Luke 1:9).

On the meaning of the word rendered "a sweet smell," euwdia— (See the notes on 2 Corinthians 2:15).

The whole language here is taken from an act of worship; and the apostle regarded what he had received from the Philippians as, in fact, a thank-offering to God, and as presented with the spirit of true devotion to him. It was not, indeed, a formal act of worship, but it was acceptable to God as an expression of their regard for his cause.

A sacrifice acceptable. Acceptable to God (Hebrews 13:16). See the notes on Romans 12:1.

Well-pleasing to God. Because it demonstrated a regard for true religion. From this, learn:

1. That kindness done to the ministers of the gospel is regarded as an acceptable offering to God.

2. That kindness to the servants of God in distress and want is as well-pleasing to God as direct acts of worship.

3. That such acts of benevolence are evidences of attachment to the cause of religion and are proofs of genuine piety. (See the notes on Matthew 10:42).