"I can do all things..."

Before any person believes that God empowers a Christian to do all things, consider that mistranslation and ignoring context are creating a highly misleading Bible quote.

"I can do all things through him who strengthens me."

(Philippians 4:13, NRSV)

The Apostle Paul is actually making a much more modest and responsible claim.

This is clear from the context and the Ancient Greek words.

"I manage all in the [One] strengthening me."

(Philippians 4:13, CFB)

Let's look at context first.

Remember, this is a letter written when Paul was a prisoner.

He is talking about his ability to be strong in Christ whether there is plenty or lack of food!

"I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned for me, but had no opportunity to show it. Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. In any case, it was kind of you to share my distress."

(Philippians 4:10-14, NRSV)

Now let's look at the Ancient Greek.

Several of the words have more than one sense.

pánta iskʰúo: en tô:i endunamoûntì me

[1] Always I am strong in Him empowering me.

[2] All I manage by the [One] empowering me.

NRSV: New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.