Element Christian Church
Never Read A Bible Verse*
*without context
Week Thirteen: I Can Do All Things
This week, we continue to explore how reading Scripture out of context can lead us to wrong or dangerous conclusions. The verse Steve covered (Philippians 4:13) has often been used to boost morale or celebrate human accomplishments, centering the focus on us and what we can do (with God’s help, of course). Essentially, it has been interpreted as a “Christian” version of, “You can do anything you put your mind to.” This can be problematic when things don’t go the way we want them to—does that mean we are in sin, don’t have enough faith, or that God is not as powerful as we thought?
Philippians 4:13 ESV
Philippians 4:9 NIV
Philippians 4:10 NIV
Philippians 4:11-13 ESV
2 Corinthians 11:24-27 NIV
Philippians 4:13 ESV
Philippians 4:9 NIV
It is important to see that Paul included this verse in a letter written while he had suffered many trials and challenges. In proper context, this verse really points to the source of Paul’s contentment amidst horrible circumstances—Jesus’ constant presence and ability to sustain him. This same truth is available to us today. In whatever circumstance we face, we can know contentment because of who Jesus is, our Savior and Lord of all. Jesus alone is our strength and the source of joy, peace, and contentment.
Discussion Starters
• Where have you seen/heard this verse before? How was it interpreted to you, or how did you interpret it at the time?
• Why do you believe so many have distorted this verse’s meaning to be primarily about us and what we can do?
• What are some of the most difficult circumstances you’ve had to endure, or are currently enduring?
• How does Jesus provide us with hope, contentment, and peace?
• Where have you fallen into a victim mentality?
• How can your ultimate contentment reflect the Gospel to others?