Philippians 4:11

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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.

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul, writing from imprisonment, clarifies that his expression of gratitude for the Philippians' financial support is not born out of a desperate personal need, but rather from a profound spiritual discipline he has cultivated. He asserts that he has actively "learned" the art of contentment, enabling him to maintain inner peace and stability regardless of his external circumstances, whether in abundance or in scarcity. This verse serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith in shaping one's disposition toward life's varied conditions.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Philippians 4:11 is nestled within Paul's concluding remarks and expressions of gratitude to the Philippian church. The preceding verses (Philippians 4:1-9) offer a series of exhortations: to stand firm in the Lord, to rejoice, to let their gentleness be known, and to overcome anxiety through prayer and thanksgiving, promising the peace of God in return. From Philippians 4:10 onward, Paul specifically thanks the Philippians for their renewed partnership in his ministry through their financial gift, acknowledging their care for him. Verse 11 acts as a crucial clarification, ensuring that his gratitude is understood not as a sign of his personal lack or dependence on their gift for his well-being, but as an appreciation for their generous spirit and participation in the gospel. It sets the stage for his powerful declaration of Christ-centered sufficiency in [Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - I Can Do All Things Through Christ").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's letter to the Philippians was likely written from Roman imprisonment (circa AD 60-62). This context of confinement and potential hardship provides a powerful backdrop for his declaration of contentment. In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of *autarkeia* (self-sufficiency) was a prominent philosophical ideal, particularly among Stoics and Cynics, who sought inner tranquility by detaching themselves from external circumstances and relying solely on their own virtue and reason. However, Paul's understanding of contentment, while using a similar term, radically redefines it. Unlike the pagan ideal of self-sufficiency, Paul's contentment is not rooted in his own innate strength or philosophical detachment, but in a dynamic, learned reliance on Christ. His life experiences, including shipwrecks, beatings, hunger, and imprisonment (as detailed in [2 Corinthians 11:23-28](/2_corinthians/11-23-28 "2 Corinthians 11:23-28 - Paul's Sufferings")), provided ample opportunity for him to practically "learn" this profound spiritual truth.

* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes in Philippians and Paul's broader theology. The most prominent is **contentment**, presented not as a passive resignation but as an active, learned spiritual discipline. It highlights the theme of **sufficiency in Christ**, demonstrating that true peace and satisfaction are found not in external circumstances or material possessions, but in one's relationship with Jesus. This directly contrasts with the world's pursuit of happiness through accumulation, emphasizing an **independence from circumstances** that allows a believer to thrive spiritually in both prosperity and adversity. Furthermore, Paul's personal testimony underscores the theme of **spiritual maturity** and the transformative power of the gospel to reshape one's inner disposition, making one's joy and peace less susceptible to the ebb and flow of life's trials. This theme is echoed in his earlier exhortations to "rejoice in the Lord always" in [Philippians 4:4](/philippians/4-4 "Philippians 4:4 - Rejoice in the Lord").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **learned (Greek, _manthánō'_):** This verb signifies acquiring knowledge or skill through instruction, experience, or practice. It implies a process, not an instantaneous event. Paul's contentment was not inherent or a natural personality trait, but something he actively cultivated and mastered over time through his varied life experiences and reliance on God. This suggests that contentment is a spiritual discipline accessible to all believers, requiring intentional effort and growth.
* **content (Greek, _autárkēs'_):** Derived from *autos* (self) and *arkeō* (to suffice), this term literally means "self-sufficient." In secular Greek philosophy (especially Stoicism), it denoted an ideal state of inner tranquility achieved by being independent of external needs and relying solely on one's own internal resources. However, Paul recontextualizes this term within a Christian framework. For Paul, this "sufficiency" is not found in himself but *in Christ*, as clarified in [Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - All Things Through Christ"). His contentment is not an arrogant independence from God or others, but a profound spiritual state where he finds all he needs in God's provision and strength, regardless of his material circumstances.
* **want (Greek, _hystérēsis'_):** This noun denotes a "falling short" or "penury," specifically referring to a state of lack or destitution. Paul's use of this word emphasizes that his gratitude is not a veiled plea for more, nor is his contentment a mere stoic resignation to poverty. Rather, he is genuinely content even in the absence of material abundance, indicating a deep spiritual satisfaction that transcends physical needs.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Not that I speak in respect of want:"** Paul begins by clarifying his motive. He wants to ensure that his acknowledgment of their gift is not misinterpreted as a complaint about his current state of need or a subtle request for further provisions. He is not speaking *because* he is in a state of destitution or *with a view to* alleviating a personal lack. This sets the stage for his profound declaration of contentment, distinguishing it from a transactional or needy mindset.
* **"for I have learned,"** This introduces the reason for his previous statement. Paul's contentment is not a natural disposition but a cultivated skill. The verb "learned" (Greek: *manthánō*) implies a process of instruction, experience, and practical application. It suggests that contentment is a spiritual discipline that is acquired over time, often through trials and varied circumstances, as one grows in faith and trust in God.
* **"in whatsoever state I am,"** This phrase emphasizes the universality and adaptability of Paul's contentment. The Greek word translated "whatsoever" (G3739, *hós*) combined with "I am" (G1510, *eimí*) refers to "in what I am" or "in whatever circumstances I exist." This encompasses the full spectrum of human experience—from abundance to scarcity, freedom to imprisonment, health to sickness, honor to dishonor. Paul's contentment is not conditional; it is a stable inner state that transcends the flux of external conditions.
* **"[therewith] to be content."** This is the culmination of Paul's statement. The bracketed "therewith" indicates it's an addition by the KJV translators for clarity, but the core meaning is "to be content in it" or "to be sufficient in it." As discussed in the key word analysis, "content" (Greek: *autárkēs*) here means finding one's sufficiency and satisfaction not in external things but in a deeper, spiritual reality. Paul has mastered the discipline of finding his complete satisfaction and inner peace within the specific circumstances he finds himself, whatever they may be, because his ultimate resource is Christ.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this concise yet profound verse. The most prominent is **Personal Testimony**, as he speaks directly from his own experience ("I have learned," "whatsoever state I am"). This lends authenticity and authority to his teaching, demonstrating that contentment is not merely a theoretical concept but a lived reality. There is also an element of **Paradox**, as he declares contentment amidst potential "want" or imprisonment, a state that most would associate with discontent. This highlights the counter-cultural nature of Christian contentment. Furthermore, the verse exhibits a **Didactic Tone**, as Paul is imparting a crucial spiritual lesson to the Philippian believers, implicitly encouraging them to cultivate the same discipline. The use of the verb "learned" also suggests a **Process-Oriented Language**, emphasizing that spiritual growth, including contentment, is an ongoing journey rather than an instantaneous achievement.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philippians 4:11 offers a profound theological insight into the nature of Christian sufficiency and the source of true peace. It challenges the common human tendency to seek security and happiness in external circumstances, material possessions, or social status. Instead, Paul points to an internal, spiritual resource that transcends all outward conditions. This contentment is not passive resignation but an active, Spirit-empowered disposition rooted in a deep trust in God's sovereign care and provision. It aligns with the biblical teaching that God is the ultimate source of all good things and that true life is found in relationship with Him, not in the abundance of one's possessions. This verse underscores the radical reorientation of values that occurs in the Christian life, shifting dependence from the fleeting and unreliable world to the unchanging and all-sufficient God. It teaches that spiritual maturity involves learning to find joy and peace in God's presence and purposes, regardless of whether one is experiencing plenty or poverty, freedom or confinement.

* [1 Timothy 6:6-8](/1_timothy/6-6-8 "1 Timothy 6:6-8 - Godliness with Contentment is Great Gain")
* [Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "Hebrews 13:5 - Be Content with What You Have")
* [Matthew 6:25-34](/matthew/6-25-34 "Matthew 6:25-34 - Do Not Worry About Your Life")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's declaration in Philippians 4:11 stands as a profound challenge and an inspiring model for believers in every generation. In a world relentlessly driven by consumerism, comparison, and the pursuit of "more," the call to contentment is counter-cultural and liberating. It invites us to critically examine where we derive our sense of security, joy, and worth. Are we constantly striving for the next promotion, the bigger house, the perfect relationship, believing that these external factors will finally bring us peace? Paul's experience demonstrates that true contentment is an internal state, a learned discipline that frees us from the tyranny of circumstances. It means cultivating a heart that is deeply satisfied in God's love, provision, and purposes, trusting that He is sufficient for every need, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. This contentment is not a passive acceptance of mediocrity, but an active, joyful reliance on God's grace in every situation, enabling us to serve Him faithfully without being derailed by either prosperity or adversity. To learn contentment, like Paul, often requires walking through seasons of both abundance and lack, allowing God to teach us the profound truth that our deepest needs are met in Him alone.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What external circumstances or possessions do I often look to for my sense of security or happiness?**
* **In what areas of my life do I struggle most with discontentment, and what might God be trying to teach me through those struggles?**
* **How can I actively practice gratitude and trust in God's provision, especially when facing a sense of "want" or lack?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to "learn" contentment, shifting my focus from what I lack to what I have in Christ?**

### FAQ

**What does Paul mean by "content" in this verse, and how is it different from self-sufficiency?**

Answer: The Greek word translated "content" is *autárkēs*, which literally means "self-sufficient." In ancient Greek philosophy, particularly Stoicism, this term described an ideal state where an individual found inner peace and independence from external circumstances by relying solely on their own virtue and reason. However, Paul redefines this concept within a Christian framework. For Paul, this "sufficiency" is not found in himself, but *in Christ*. His contentment is not an arrogant independence from God or others, but a profound spiritual state where he finds all he needs in God's provision and strength, regardless of his material circumstances. As he clarifies in [Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - All Things Through Christ"), "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Thus, his contentment is Christ-sufficiency, not self-sufficiency.

**Is Christian contentment a passive acceptance of whatever happens, or is it an active discipline?**

Answer: Christian contentment, as taught by Paul, is far from passive. Paul explicitly states, "I have learned" (Greek: *manthánō*), indicating an active, ongoing process of acquiring knowledge and skill through experience and spiritual growth. It is a discipline that requires intentional effort, trust in God, and a reorientation of one's desires and focus. It involves actively choosing to find satisfaction in God's will and provision, even when circumstances are difficult, rather than passively resigning oneself to fate. It's a dynamic state of resting in God's sovereignty and goodness, regardless of the external situation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's learned contentment in [Philippians 4:11](/philippians/4-11 "Philippians 4:11 - Paul's Contentment") finds its ultimate fulfillment and model in the person of Jesus Christ. Christ, though "rich, yet for your sakes he became poor" ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Poverty and Our Riches")), perfectly embodied contentment and reliance on the Father in every state. He was content to lay aside His divine prerogatives ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")), to live a life of humble service with no place to lay His head ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - The Son of Man Has No Place to Lay His Head")), and to ultimately endure the cross, "for the joy that was set before him" ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking to Jesus")). His sufficiency was always in the Father, perfectly demonstrating that true contentment is found not in what one possesses or experiences, but in complete union and obedience to God's will. For the believer, this contentment is possible because Christ Himself is our ultimate sufficiency and strength ([Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - I Can Do All Things Through Christ")). Through His Spirit, He empowers us to find peace and satisfaction in Him, regardless of our external circumstances, transforming our hearts to reflect His own perfect contentment and trust in the Father.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

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,