Philippians 4 13 Philippians 4 13 I can

Philippians 4: 13

Philippians 4: 13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Meaning of Philippians 4: 13? • In recent years, this verse has become somewhat of a rallying point for athletes across the country. If you believe in Christ enough, you will win the game!

Spiritual Rabbit’s Foot? The common understanding of the verse is that with enough faith, we can do anything and defeat any opponent! Playing the 1 st place team? “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. ”

Misapplication Big job interview coming up? “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. ” Need more funds? “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. ”

The Prosperity Doctrine • Closely tied to this viewpoint is something known as the “Prosperity Doctrine”. • “God does not want his children to be in want or need. Pray for what you desire and God will make you rich!” • Preachers: Oral Roberts, Benny Hinn, Kenneth Copeland, Robert Tilton, T. D. Jakes, Joel Osteen

1 Chronicles 4: 10 And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, “Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” So God granted him what he requested.

From Joel Osteen Today’s Word Commentary on Philippians 4: 13 “Most people tend to magnify their limitations. They focus on their shortcomings. But scripture makes it plain: all things are possible to those who believe. That’s right! IT is possible to see your dreams fulfilled. It is possible to overcome that obstacle. It is possible to climb to new heights. It is possible to embrace your destiny. You may not know how it will all take place. You may not have a plan, but all you need to know is that if God said you can…. you can!”

Is this what Paul meant? • Does God want us to treat him as a “Celestial Vending Machine? ” • Does God want all of us to be rich and powerful? • Does God want us to be the best athletes on the field?

Context • Pulling one verse out of context can be very dangerous. We must consider the entire passage. • If we look at the context of Philippians 4, it is quite apparent that Paul had another idea in mind.

QUESTIONS 1. Where did Paul write Philippians from? 2. Who is Epaphroditus? 3. How much money did congregations other than Philippi contribute financially to Paul?

Philippians 4: 11 -13 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: 12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4: 14 -17 14 Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. 15 Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.

Philippians 4: 18 -20 18 Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. 19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Philippians 4: 13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Q: A: What was the context of this verse? The financial care sent from the Philippians to Paul.

Achievement vs. Contentment The underlying theme of the passage is not personal achievement, but rather contentment with what one has. Paul was thankful for what the Philippians had done, but his ministry was not dependent upon their contribution – Paul would still preach whether he had their financial support or not.

Which is worse? ABASED: POVERTY ABOUND: WEALTH “I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. ” “I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. ”

Contentment • The message of Philippians 4: 13 is to be content no matter the situation – this is not a lesson about our personal achievement. • “Paul is not encouraging Christians to go out and conquer the world; he is reminding them they can press on when the world conquers them” – Jonathan Merritt

True Meaning of Philippians 4: 13 This verse is not about being able to beat a good team in a football game, but rather being able to remain content when our worldly resources are minimal.

Conclusion • When Paul penned Philippians 4: 13, he had financial support in mind, not personal achievement. • When he had plenty, he was content. When he did not, he was content. • Achievement vs. Contentment? Contentment! • Be careful of pulling a verse out of context.