Philippians 4:13
Bible Verses. Also called Phil. 4:13, Philippians 4 13, I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me, I can do all things through Christ, Through him who strengthens me.
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Scripture quotation from the King James Version (KJV). Read this chapter
Philippians 4:13 is Paul's confession, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." It is one of the most beloved verses in Korean churches, and it is also frequently criticized for being taken out of context and used as a promise of success.
About this articleAI draft from a Korean source. Notes on Korean Protestant practice. No sources listed. Not yet reviewed by a person.
- Origin
Drafted by AI from the Korean church.wiki article, then translated and adapted for English readers on 5 November 2026.
- Perspective
Includes notes on Korean Protestant practice; other traditions are noted where they differ.
- Sources
None listed yet. The article draws on the biblical text and general reference works. Add a source
- Review
Not yet reviewed by a person. Last edited by a person: never. Translation updated 5 November 2026. Edit history
Context
Philippians is a letter that Paul wrote to the church at Philippi while he was imprisoned. Near the end of chapter 4, Paul thanks the church for the gift it had sent him, adding that he does not speak out of want. In the preceding verses he says, "I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound," and that he has learned how to live in every circumstance, whether full or hungry, abounding or in need (Philippians 4:11-12). Verse 13 is the conclusion of that statement.
Interpretation
- As a confession of contentment: On this reading, "all things" refers to every circumstance mentioned in the preceding verses, namely times of plenty and times of want. Paul is not claiming that he can accomplish anything whatsoever, but that in any situation he can endure and be content in Christ. Most modern commentators read the verse this way.
- As a promise of strength: On this reading, although the immediate context is contentment, the verse rests on the general truth that Christ gives strength to those who believe. It may therefore be applied more broadly as an assurance that God gives strength to carry out the work He entrusts. Proponents cite 2 Corinthians 12:9 ("My grace is sufficient for thee") in support.
The two readings are not mutually exclusive. The difference lies in how far "all things" is extended.
Controversy and Issues
The verse is widely used as an "I can do it" affirmation before examinations, business ventures, and athletic competitions. Critics argue that this practice detaches the verse from its context and treats it as an incantation for success. Critics of prosperity theology in particular contend that the confession of a man enduring want in prison has been turned into a promise of obtaining whatever one desires. Others hold that a believer who draws strength from this verse when facing a difficult task does not depart from Paul's meaning, since the heart of the verse is enduring by the strength Christ supplies.
Translations also differ. The Korean Revised Version (New Edition) reads "him who gives me strength" without naming him, whereas some manuscripts and older translations, such as the King James Version, include the word "Christ."
Perspective: Korean Protestant practiceHow this idea is used in Korean churches, kept from the original Korean article.
In Korean Protestant churches, the verse is frequently quoted at prayer meetings for students preparing for examinations, at early-morning prayer services, and in the testimonies of Christian athletes, and it is one of the verses most often printed on framed plaques and bookmarks. A gospel song of the same title is also widely sung.
Related Passages
See also 5
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