Understanding Philippians 4:13

Understanding Philippians 4:13 provides a short commentary of Philippians 4:13.


Philippians 4:13

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13, NKJV).

Philippians 4:13 has been a puzzle to many people. However, the puzzle disappears when you read the verse in context.

Paul had just explained in Philippians 4:11-12 that he had learned to be content in whatever situation he found himself in - whether it be poverty or abundance.

As one commentator said, "Paul said he could do everything - including handling poverty and living in abundance - through Christ who gave him strength." This was not an expression of pride in his own abilities but a declaration of the strength provided by Jesus Christ.

Another commentator said this, "When the Apostle Paul siad that he could do all things, he meant all things which were God's will for him to do. He learned that the Lord's commands are the Lord's enablement." He knew that the Lord would not call upon him to do a task without the necessary grace to complete that task.

Philippians 4:13 implies that Paul gain his strength from Jesus Himself regardless of the circumstance. Paul learned the principle that Jesus Christ laid down in the gospel of John. "For without Me you can do nothing," (John 15:5b).


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Understanding Philippians 4:13

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