24: “I Can Do All Things through Christ Who Strengthens Me” (Php 4:10-23)

The Basics

Setting

Paul has ended his exhortations to the Philippians. He now closes the letter with some personal notes. He expresses his gratitude for their love and generous support. But he also makes it clear that his ministry is not profit-driven. Rather, he has everything he needs through the power of Christ. Finally, he concludes the epistle with greetings and benedictions.

Key Verse

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (4:13).

Did You Know…?

1.     Macedonia (4:15): “The northern part of modern-day Greece, where Berea and Thessalonica, as well as Philippi, were located.”^4/1809

2.     Caesar’s household (4:22): These were “not blood relatives of the emperor, but those employed (slaves or freedmen) in or around the palace area” ^4/1810

Observation

Outline

(4:10-20)

(4:21-23)

Key Words/Phrases

Segment Analysis

4:10-23

1.     In which verses does Paul speak mainly about himself? What does he say about himself?

2a.   What does Paul say in this passage about the believers’ care for him?

2b.   What can we learn from the Philippians in our care for others?

3.     Did Paul rejoice because his needs were met? Explain the reason for his joy.

4a.   What causes discontentment? Are you discontented with your life right now?

4b.   How can we be always content, even when we are abased, hungry, or in need?

5.     Paul uses the word “learned” twice (11,12). What does this indicate about achieving contentment?

6a.   What does Paul mean by “I can do all things”?

6b.   What does it mean for us to do things “through Christ”?

6c.   Think of a personal experience in which you found sufficiency in Christ’s strength.

6d.   Have you learned to be content in Christ?

7.     Who benefits the most from the Philippians’ gift?

8.     What are the correct motives and attitude in giving?

9.     Why is the Philippians’ gift to Paul a sweet-smelling aroma and acceptable sacrifice to God?

Final Thoughts

10.   How has this epistle changed your attitude and values in life? Meditate on the teachings you have gathered from the study of this book and think about what changes you can make to your life today.