Strengthened - For What?

Philippians 4:13 Merch Pictures

Philippians 4:10–17 NIV

10 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. 14 Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; 16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. 17 Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.

Paul’s Attitude Towards Money

Strongly argued for his right to pay

1 Cor 9:12-18, 2 Thess 3:9

Generally refused to accept support

Worked to cover expenses

Paul and The Philippians

A letter of “thankless thanks” in a culture of reciprocal gifts

The only church Paul accepted support from (e.g. Lydia)

Expressing joy over partnership in ministry

Endurance Through Christ

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

πᾶς (pas) = all

“this” or “things” added for clarity, points to verses 11-12

ἐνδυναμόω (endynamoō) = to enable / strengthen

Philippians 4:13 Looks Like The Cross

Points to the abiding nature of God

Christ imparts His character and endurance

Phil 2:5-8

Philippians 2:5–8 NIV

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!

Sanctification, Not Power

Christ works in us for sanctification to enable work through us, no matter the circumstances

The strength Christ gives is not for winning games for fighting wars, but for enduring setbacks while pursuing His calling.

A Wonderful Life Verse, In Context

Points to the sanctifying power of Christ

Reminds us of God’s abiding nature

Is Christ strengthening you to endure while pursuing His calling?