Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

I can do {G2480} all things {G3956} through {G1722} Christ {G5547} which {G3588} strengtheneth {G1743} me {G3165}.

I can do all things through him who gives me power.

I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.

I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me.

Philippians 4:13 (KJV)

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Context

This powerful declaration comes at the end of a section where the Apostle Paul discusses his ability to be content in any situation, whether in abundance or in need (Philippians 4:10-12). He has just thanked the Philippians for their financial gift and shared his personal experience of learning to be self-sufficient, not in his own strength, but through Christ. This verse is the foundation for his contentment and capability in all states.

Key Themes

The core message is the believer's capability is rooted not in their own strength, but in the power provided by Christ. This verse is not a blank check for personal ambition or achieving any goal one sets. Instead, it should be understood within the context of enduring trials, facing challenges, fulfilling God's will, and living a life of faithfulness and contentment in all circumstances, as Paul describes in the preceding verses.

  • Strength from Christ: The ability to "do all things" comes specifically "through Christ." He is the source of power and enablement.
  • Dependence: It highlights the believer's dependence on Christ for spiritual, emotional, and even physical strength needed to navigate life's varied circumstances.
  • Capability in Christ: Through Christ, believers are empowered to live obediently, endure hardship, resist temptation, and carry out the tasks God has given them.

Linguistic Insight

The word translated "strengtheneth" comes from the Greek word endunamoo (ἐνδυναμοῦντος), which means "to empower," "to make strong," or "to enable." It emphasizes the infusion of power from an external source, highlighting that the strength comes from Christ Himself.

Cross References

  • John 15:5 - "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing." (Emphasizes dependence on Christ).
  • 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 - "...My strength is made perfect in weakness... For when I am weak, then am I strong." (Shows that God's power is often most evident in our human weakness).
  • Colossians 1:11 - "Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness." (Another reference to believers being strengthened by God's power).

Practical Application

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that believers are not left to face the challenges of life in their own limited strength. Whether facing difficult circumstances, pursuing God-given tasks, or striving to live a life pleasing to Him, we can rely on Christ's empowering presence. It encourages us to approach life's demands with faith, knowing that the strength needed is available through Him.

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.

  • Isaiah 41:10

    ¶ Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:9

    And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:10

    Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

  • Colossians 1:11

    Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

  • Ephesians 6:10

    ¶ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

  • Isaiah 40:29

    He giveth power to the faint; and to [them that have] no might he increaseth strength.

  • Isaiah 40:31

    But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint.

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