Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Philippians 4:17

"Not that I seek for the gift; but I seek for the fruit that increaseth to your account." — Philippians 4:17 (ASV)

Paul’s readers must not suppose that he is primarily concerned with their gift as such, but rather in the development of the grace of giving among them. Using business terminology, he says that he regards such displays as interest “credited to [their] account.” Their spiritual growth was the fruit Paul desired, and to this end he directed his ministry.