Philippians 4:11

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content.

Not {G3756} that I speak {G3004} in respect {G3754}{G2596} of want {G5304}: for {G1063} I {G1473} have learned {G3129}, in {G1722} whatsoever state {G3739} I am {G1510}, therewith to be {G1511} content {G842}.

Not that I am saying this to call attention to any need of mine; since, as far as I am concerned, I have learned to be content regardless of circumstances.

I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances.

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therein to be content.

Philippians 4:11 is a powerful statement from the Apostle Paul about finding inner peace and stability regardless of external circumstances. He clarifies that his appreciation for the Philippians' gift (mentioned in the preceding verse) is not born out of a desperate need or "want," but rather flows from a deeper principle he has embraced: learning to be content in every situation.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's concluding remarks in his letter to the church in Philippi. Chapter 4 begins with exhortations to stand firm, rejoice, and let their gentleness be known (Philippians 4:4-5). He then encourages them not to be anxious but to bring everything to God in prayer (Philippians 4:6), promising the peace of God in return. In verses 10-20, Paul expresses gratitude for their financial support, highlighting their partnership in the gospel. Verse 11 serves as a bridge, explaining that his contentment isn't dependent on receiving gifts, but is a learned spiritual discipline.

Key Themes

  • Contentment: The central theme is the concept of being content, not as a passive acceptance of fate, but as an active state of finding sufficiency.
  • Learned Discipline: Paul emphasizes that this contentment was not inherent but something he "learned." This implies a process of spiritual growth and experience, perhaps through various trials and circumstances he faced.
  • Sufficiency in Christ: While the word translated "content" (Greek: autarkēs) can mean "self-sufficient," in the context of Paul's life and the subsequent verse (Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me"), it is best understood as finding sufficiency *in* Christ, not independently of Him. True Christian contentment comes from a deep reliance on God.
  • Independence from Circumstances: The verse highlights the spiritual ability to maintain inner stability and peace "in whatsoever state I am," whether in abundance or in need.

Linguistic Insights

The key Greek word here is autarkēs, translated as "content." While it can carry the secular philosophical sense of self-sufficiency, Paul redeems and redefines it within a Christian framework. His contentment is not rooted in his own capabilities or resources, but in the strength and provision he finds in Christ. This contrasts sharply with the world's pursuit of satisfaction through external things.

Reflection and Application

Paul's declaration in Philippians 4:11 challenges believers today. In a culture often driven by consumerism and the pursuit of more, learning contentment is a vital spiritual practice. It requires shifting our focus from what we lack to what we have been given in Christ. It involves trusting God's provision and finding joy and peace regardless of our financial status, health, or social standing. Like Paul, contentment is learned, often through experiences where we are forced to rely solely on God. This verse encourages us to cultivate a heart that is satisfied in God's love and purposes, knowing that true security and fulfillment are found not in our possessions or circumstances, but in our relationship with Jesus Christ. It reminds us that godliness with contentment is great gain.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Timothy 6:6

    ¶ But godliness with contentment is great gain.

  • 1 Timothy 6:9

    But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and [into] many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.

  • Hebrews 13:5

    [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

  • Hebrews 13:6

    So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

  • Matthew 6:31

    Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?

  • Matthew 6:34

    Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day [is] the evil thereof.

  • Philippians 3:8

    Yea doubtless, and I count all things [but] loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I may win Christ,
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