APPLICATION EXERCISE - BIBLE CONTEXT

SCRIPTURE - PHILIPPIANS 4:13

“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”

When you first read this scripture, what do you think?

Now let’s see what it says when we read it in the correct context:

EXEGISIS – What was the original intent of the scripture

WHO WROTE IT?

The Apostle Paul:

He was a wealthy and important man before encountering Jesus

He was writing this from a prison cell because of he was preaching Jesus

WHO DID HE WRITE IT TO?

Philippians – they lived in a city center... could have and do whatever they wanted

WHY DID HE WRITE IT?

Reading verse in context, always read what is said before and what is said after:

SCRIPTURE – PHILIPPIANS 4:10-19

“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. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  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.  I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles.  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;  for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.  I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.  And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

What Paul is saying is I am content in Christ – I can suffer or I can be wealthy, I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength