![]() ![]() In Philippians 1:12-14, he wrote, “Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has actually resulted in the advancement of the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard, and to everyone else, that my imprisonment is for Christ. Most of the brothers in the Lord have gained confidence from my imprisonment and dare even more to speak the message fearlessly.” (HCSB) This is the context of Paul’s statement. Paul’s attitude of serving Christ no matter the circumstances resulted in an advancement of the gospel. Along the way, his ship encountered a violent storm that left him shipwrecked on the island of Malta. After being held in prison for two years in Caesarea, he appealed to Caesar and was shipped to Rome. He had been betrayed by his countrymen because he was preaching Christ, and then he survived a plot against his life. First of all, Paul was in prison in Rome when he wrote this sentence. Paul’s context provides even more insight into the meaning behind “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” The strength Christ provided was in my character-learning to overcome adversity and press on when I wanted to give up. ![]() He strengthened me by giving me perspective, humbling me, and helping me face my fears. The strength Christ provided was not physical so that I could accomplish what I wanted to do. No, Jesus did not give me the strength to win my next race. But He did strengthen me to get out there and run the race.Īs a 19-year-old, I didn’t like to be embarrassed, much less put myself in a situation where I thought I would be embarrassed again! I didn’t like to lose. And I certainly didn’t like to admit to myself that I wasn’t as good as I thought I was. In fact, I was in the lead for a good portion of the race! But that was mostly because I didn’t know how to pace myself, so I burned out with 100 meters to go. It was embarrassing to have everyone pass me on the final stretch. I wanted to win my first 400-meter race in college. I tried so hard. I appreciate an individual’s desire to give God the glory, but that is not what Paul is talking about here in Philippians. We must remember the key rule of interpretation: ‘Every text has a context.’ In reality, there were multiple factors (like the training they’ve put in) that came together to give them the victory! It is also one of the most misused verses in the Bible. For example, we have seen people quote this verse when they perform an amazing feat of athleticism or other achievement. This verse is one of the most-quoted verses in the Bible. The Apostle Paul wrote, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). ![]()
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