Philippians 4:11
Verse
Context
The Generosity of the Philippians
10Now I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.11I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances.12I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Not that I speak in respect of want - I am quite unconcerned in this respect; leaving the whole of my support, while bound for the testimony of Jesus, to the providence of God. For I have learned - I am so satisfied with the wise providence and goodness of God, that I know whatever he determines is the best; and therefore I am perfectly contented that he should govern the world in that way which seems best to his godly wisdom. How true is the proverb, A contented mind is a continual feast! What do we get by murmuring and complaining?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I have learned--The I in Greek is emphatical. I leave it to others if they will, to be discontented. I, for my part, have learned, by the teaching of the Holy Spirit, and the dealings of Providence (Heb 5:8), to be content in every state. content--The Greek, literally expresses "independent of others, and having sufficiency in one's self." But Christianity has raised the term above the haughty self-sufficiency of the heathen Stoic to the contentment of the Christian, whose sufficiency is not in self, but in God (Co2 3:5; Ti1 6:6, Ti1 6:8; Heb 13:5; compare Jer 2:36; Jer 45:5).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Not that I speak in respect of want,.... Either of want of will in them; of their slowness and backwardness in their care of him, postponing him to others, caring for him last of all; this gave him no uneasiness, he did not take it ill, knowing and owning himself to be less than the least of all saints: or of his own want before this present came; and his sense is, that he did not express himself with so much joy, because of the penury and distress he was in before the things came to him which they sent; for he was not in want; though he had nothing, he possessed all things, and was as happy, and in as comfortable a frame, and in as much content then as now: for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content; or "to be sufficient", as the Vulgate Latin version renders it; or that that is sufficient for me which I have, as the Syriac version renders it; for the word here used signifies to be self-sufficient, or to have a sufficiency in one's self, which in the strict sense of the phrase is only true of God, who is "El-shaddai", God all-sufficient; but, in a lower sense, is true of such who are contented with their present state and condition, with such things as they have, be they more or less, and think that they have enough, as old Jacob did, Gen 33:11; and such persons have a sort of an all-sufficiency in them; they are thankful for every thing they have, be it little or more, and in every state, whether of adversity or prosperity; and quietly and patiently submit to the will of God, and cheerfully take and bear whatever is assigned them as their portion; and such an one was the apostle: he was not only content with food and raiment, and such things as he had, but even when he had nothing at all; when he had neither bread to eat nor clothes to wear; when he was in hunger and thirst, in cold and nakedness, as was sometimes his case; and therefore he does not say here, that he had learnt to be content with such things as he had, but , "in what I am": and this he had not by nature, but by grace; it was not natural, but adventitious to him; it was not what he had acquired by his industry, but what he had "learned"; and that not in the school of nature and reason, while an unregenerate man; nor at the feet of Gamaliel, while he was training up under him in the law of Moses, and in the traditions of the elders; but he learned it of God, and was taught it by the revelation of Christ, and under the teachings of the Spirit of God, and that in the school of affliction, by a train of experiences, of many sorrows, afflictions, and distresses; for this lesson is learned quite contrary to all the rules and reasons among men, not by prosperity, but by adversity: many are the things that may excite and encourage to the exercise of this heavenly grace, where it is wrought; as the consideration of the unalterable will of God, according to which every man's state and condition is settled, and therefore what God has made crooked can never be made straight; and of our case when we came into the world, and what that will be when we go out of it, naked and bare of this world's things; and of our unworthiness of the least mercy at the hand of God: add to which, the consideration of God being our portion and exceeding great reward; of having an interest in Christ and all things in him; and of the profits and pleasures of a life of contentment; and of the promises which God has made to such; and of the future glory and happiness which will shortly be enjoyed: so that a believer may say, who has the smallest pittance of earthly enjoyments, this, with a covenant God, with an interest in Christ, with grace here and heaven hereafter, is enough.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:11-12 As a slave of Christ, Paul has learned to be content with every situation, whether he had plenty or little. His life was filled with the joy that comes from doing the will of God whatever the cost.
Philippians 4:11
The Generosity of the Philippians
10Now I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.11I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances.12I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
How to Be Content in Every Situation
By David Wilkerson5.4K48:24ContentmentPHP 4:11In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of learning how to be content in every situation. He emphasizes that true contentment does not come from acquiring material possessions, but rather from being weaned off the desires of this world. The speaker also addresses the question of why God allows difficulties and challenges in our lives, reminding listeners that God is always present and patient with us. He encourages believers to examine their hearts and trust in God's promise to never leave or forsake them.
How Much Could You Lose
By Leonard Ravenhill2.7K55:35FaithJDG 18:24JOB 1:21MAT 6:33ROM 8:28PHP 4:11In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the fragility of life and the blessings we often take for granted. He mentions an Englishman arriving in America on the 4th of July and the significance of the tide's depth being known through scientific knowledge. The preacher also references Job and his scientific inquiries, highlighting the reward of seeing God's face. The sermon concludes with a thought-provoking question about how much we could lose without losing our faith in God, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and appreciation for the blessings we have.
Understanding Spiritual Authority (Part 1): What Is Aaron That You Murmur Against Him?
By Carter Conlon2.4K1:00:04Spiritual AuthorityNUM 17:5MAT 6:33GAL 5:22EPH 2:3PHP 4:11REV 2:3In this sermon, the preacher begins by asking for an anointing of the Holy Spirit to convey the truth clearly and concisely. He prays for the grace for the church to live out this truth. The sermon focuses on understanding spiritual authority, particularly in the context of a last-day lawlessness that is increasing in society. The preacher highlights the breakdown of natural affection, decency, and respect for authority. He announces that this will be the first in a series of three messages on understanding spiritual authority, with the subsequent messages addressing the purpose and limits of authority and the inseparable link between authority and faith.
The Blessed Path of Suffering
By Zac Poonen2.2K1:03:34SufferingISA 53:1PHP 4:11REV 2:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of following the example of Christ in suffering. He highlights the story of a man in a Chinese prison who converted 600 prisoners through his faith and endurance. The speaker challenges the notion of flashy and self-centered leaders, stating that true servants of the Lord embrace the lowest of people and take up the cause of the black sheep. He also encourages believers to discern between what is spiritual and soulish, and to understand the distinctions between the old and new covenants in the Bible.
The Contented and the Discontented Man
By Geraint Fielder1.4K49:16DiscontentROM 1:212CO 12:9PHP 4:5PHP 4:11PHP 4:14PHP 4:18In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of contentment and its connection to the element of surprise. He shares the story of Michael Cassidy, a young man who had a remarkable conversion and was able to convert others through his testimony. The preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing that God is near and therefore there is no reason to be anxious. He encourages cultivating an attitude of thanksgiving and appreciation, even when God seems to say no to our requests.
Addressing the Spirit of Poverty - Part 2
By Jackie Pullinger1.3K1:15:05PovertyPHP 4:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of contentment in the face of different circumstances. He references the Apostle Paul's experience in Philippians, where Paul states that he has learned to be content in any situation, whether in need or in plenty. The speaker then shares a personal story about an old man in a refugee camp who exemplified this contentment despite his difficult circumstances. The speaker also mentions a group of missionaries dedicated to helping the poor, but criticizes their approach of living in poverty as a form of martyrdom. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the freedom from the fear of poverty and the need to be rich or poor, and encourages the audience to find contentment in God's strength.
Be Filled With the Holy Spirit - 3
By Zacharias Tanee Fomum1.1K1:20:12Holy SpiritPHP 4:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of radical conversion and absolute surrender in the Christian faith. He emphasizes the need for concentration and focus in one's relationship with God. The speaker also mentions the story of David and Goliath, highlighting David's courage and faith in facing his enemy. He encourages the audience to have a strong connection with God and to think and act with a mindset of expansion and growth in their faith.
The Ones Who Are Called to Serve, Will Get the Power He Needs (Norwegian)
By Zac Poonen1.0K52:35PSA 139:13PHP 3:12PHP 4:11HEB 12:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of being content with God's plan for our lives while also striving for spiritual growth and fulfilling the specific purpose God has for each individual. It encourages young people to focus on building the body of Christ and to trust in God's equipping and guidance. The message highlights the need to eliminate unbelief, trust in God's unique plan for each person, and seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit for effective service.
The Beauty of Nothing
By Richard Wurmbrand1.0K37:51JOB 26:7MAT 16:24MAT 28:202CO 12:11GAL 2:20PHP 4:11HEB 13:5This sermon shares the powerful testimony of a pastor who endured 14 years in communist prisons, highlighting the struggles, faith, and triumphs experienced during that time. It emphasizes the value of humility, self-denial, and complete surrender to Christ, drawing parallels between the pastor's experiences and the teachings of St. Paul. The sermon also underscores the importance of gratitude, perseverance, and the enduring presence of God even in the darkest moments of life.
New Year Message 1 of 4 : Recognize How Big God Is
By Zac Poonen94955:52PHP 4:11This sermon emphasizes the importance of being content and having a humble perspective before God. It highlights the need to be Christ-like, focusing on spiritual growth rather than worldly gains. The speaker encourages being content in all circumstances, learning from the examples of Paul and Jesus, and seeking to be renewed daily in Christ. The message stresses the significance of being small in our own eyes, pursuing a life free from grumbling, and having a heavenly perspective in all aspects of life.
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 6
By Zac Poonen74426:48PSA 73:25MAT 4:10MAT 6:24MAT 6:33MAT 28:20JHN 4:23PHP 4:11REV 22:9This sermon delves into the often neglected second part of the Great Commission, emphasizing the importance of not only making converts but also transforming them into disciples who obey all that Jesus commanded. It uses the analogy of a carpenter shop to illustrate the imbalance in focusing on evangelism over discipleship. The sermon highlights the need for believers to have a radical attitude towards serving God over material wealth, addressing the dangers of idolizing money. It also explores the concept of true worship, distinguishing it from mere praise and emphasizing the intimate connection it fosters with God.
The Slowness of God's Ways
By Don Currin68653:55ECC 3:11MIC 7:7MAT 21:22LUK 2:251CO 4:2PHP 4:11JAS 1:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of not wasting life, urging young people to stay in the Word of God, walk in the Spirit, trust God, and guard their hearts. It highlights the revelation of dependence on God in weakness and the need for the fullness of the Holy Spirit through faith. The speaker discusses the slowness of God's ways, the need to wait on God, and the dangers of impatience and seeking worldly strategies over divine timing.
How to Become Satisfied
By Basilea Schlink55704:35Radio ShowMAT 6:33MAT 10:39PHP 4:11The video is a sermon on the topic of finding satisfaction and happiness in life. The speaker references Matthew 10:39, where Jesus says that those who lose their life for His sake will find it. The message emphasizes the importance of giving up worldly desires and making sacrifices for God, as this leads to experiencing God's loving intentions for one's life. The speaker encourages listeners to trust in God's power and to bear their cross after Him. The video concludes with an invitation to visit the website for more information and a free inspirational booklet.
The Driving Power of Discontentment
By Carter Conlon38558:04DiscontentmentEPH 3:8PHP 2:14PHP 4:6PHP 4:9PHP 4:11In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the theme of discontentment and its prevalence in society. He references Philippians 4:9, where the Apostle Paul encourages believers to imitate his example and experience the peace of God. The preacher emphasizes that he has learned to be content in any situation, whether in abundance or in lack. He highlights how marketing often caters to people's discontentment, perpetuating a cycle of dissatisfaction. The sermon concludes with a prayer for those struggling with discontentment and a call to surrender to God and find fulfillment in Him.
Living Jesus
By G.W. North1351:09:00JesusMAT 6:33PHP 1:21PHP 4:4PHP 4:6PHP 4:11PHP 4:13PHP 4:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of learning and knowing Jesus Christ. He encourages the audience to seek contentment and to rely on the further supply of the Spirit of Jesus. The preacher shares the story of Paul in the Roman prison and reflects on the wisdom of God in sparing Paul's life. He also highlights the generosity of Paul towards the people of Philippi and reminds the audience that God will supply all their needs according to His riches in glory.
Learning Obedience
By Phil Beach Jr.2633:12ObedienceDependence on ChristSpiritual GrowthMAT 5:3JHN 15:5ROM 7:242CO 13:4GAL 2:20PHP 4:11COL 1:27HEB 5:8JAS 4:101PE 5:6Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the profound meaning of being 'poor in spirit' as a state of utter dependence on Christ, akin to a beggar who recognizes his complete lack of resources. He explains that true mourning arises from this awareness of spiritual poverty, leading to a cultivation of meekness, which is a learned response to God's authority. Beach draws parallels between the believer's journey and Adam's choice at the tree of knowledge, highlighting the importance of choosing Christ over self-reliance. He asserts that through union with Christ, believers can experience victory over sin and grow in maturity by learning to say no to their old nature and yes to the new life in Christ. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep reliance on God's grace to transform our hearts and minds, fostering a desire for righteousness and a rejection of sin.
Get Off the Emotional Rollercoaster
By Shane Idleman2058:18Emotional HealthTrust in God1CO 7:17PHP 4:11Shane Idleman addresses the emotional rollercoaster many experience in life, emphasizing the importance of contentment and trusting in God's sovereignty. He draws from 1 Corinthians 7 to illustrate that believers should remain steadfast in their current situations, rather than seeking fulfillment through changing circumstances or relationships. Idleman encourages the congregation to keep God's commandments and to find their identity in Christ, rather than in the ups and downs of life. He also highlights the need for a healthy spiritual and physical lifestyle to combat mental health issues, urging listeners to seek God earnestly and to trust Him in all aspects of life.
Learning Our Lessons
By J.R. Miller1Spiritual GrowthLearning from LifeMAT 11:29PHP 4:11HEB 12:11JAS 1:2J.R. Miller emphasizes that life is a continuous learning experience, where every moment serves as an opportunity for spiritual education. He explains that the Bible is our primary textbook, while the lives of godly individuals and our personal experiences serve as secondary sources of lessons. Miller highlights the importance of not just knowing the lessons but actively practicing them in our daily lives, as true learning comes from application. He encourages believers to seek Christ not only as a teacher but also as a savior, recognizing that spiritual growth requires persistent effort and reliance on divine grace. Ultimately, Miller reassures that every challenge and trial is a part of God's educational plan for our character development.
Paul's Sources of Consolation
By Thomas Reade0PSA 139:17ROM 8:381CO 15:582CO 1:32CO 4:172CO 5:202CO 12:9PHP 4:11PHP 4:18Thomas Reade preaches about the sources of consolation for Christians, focusing on the covenant titles of Jehovah, the immutability of God's counsel, the sufficiency of the Savior's grace, the efficacy of His power, and the assurance of future glory. He emphasizes the importance of meditating on the Divine Perfections displayed in our redemption by Jesus Christ and the work of grace in the heart through the Holy Spirit. Reade highlights the security, peace, and blessings that believers in Jesus experience, rooted in the everlasting Covenant and the unbreakable love of God. He encourages believers to find contentment, humility, and strength in Christ, to endure trials with joy, and to look forward to the eternal glory promised to those who love God.
All Our Care Is to Be Placed in God
By Thomas a Kempis0PRO 3:5PHP 4:11JAS 1:2Thomas a Kempis preaches about surrendering to the will of Christ, emphasizing the importance of trusting God's plan over our own desires and understanding that His care for us surpasses our own self-care. The disciple acknowledges the need to fully rely on God's guidance and to be content in all circumstances, whether in darkness or light, comfort or affliction. Christ reminds the disciple to be willing to suffer and be content in all situations, reflecting a heart that is fully surrendered to God's will.
Soldiers, Strangers, Travelers, Pilgrims
By Thomas Brooks0ContentmentTrust in GodGEN 28:20PHP 4:11HEB 10:34HEB 13:5Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of contentment in the life of a Christian, even in times of hardship and loss, as illustrated by the believing Hebrews who faced plunder. He reminds believers that their identity as soldiers, strangers, travelers, and pilgrims calls for a reliance on God rather than material possessions. Brooks highlights that true contentment comes from grace, which thrives on less, contrasting it with the insatiable desires of those ruled by their lusts. He draws parallels from the Israelites' experience in the wilderness and Jacob's humble request for basic needs, underscoring that God provides enough for those who trust in Him.
1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13
By St. John Chrysostom0PRO 3:27LUK 19:8ROM 14:1PHP 4:111TH 5:121TH 5:151TI 5:17HEB 13:17John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of respecting and supporting leaders in the church, acknowledging the challenges they face in guiding and admonishing the congregation. He highlights the need to show gratitude and love towards those who labor among us, urging believers to be at peace with one another. Chrysostom also addresses the responsibility of leaders to admonish the disorderly, encourage the faint-hearted, and support the weak, emphasizing the importance of patience and kindness towards all. He stresses the significance of not retaliating with evil, but always pursuing good and giving thanks, aligning with God's will. Chrysostom concludes by urging both the rich and the poor to refrain from covetousness and injustice, emphasizing the importance of contentment and generosity.
Xxvii. to Lady Halhill
By Samuel Rutherford0PSA 34:18MAT 16:242CO 1:3GAL 2:20PHP 4:11COL 3:1Samuel Rutherford writes a letter to a Christian lady, sharing his personal experience of the kind dealings of Christ in the midst of trials and challenges. He testifies to the faithfulness of God in sustaining him, bringing joy and consolation even in the midst of suffering. Rutherford expresses his contentment in Christ, valuing the reproaches and cross of Christ over worldly treasures and comforts, highlighting the transformation of his heart and love solely for Christ. He encourages the lady to seek the love of Christ above all else, wishing the same for her family, and concludes with a prayer for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with her.
Grace for the Humble
By James Smith0PSA 119:67ISA 57:15JHN 14:6ROM 7:242CO 12:9PHP 4:11HEB 4:16JAS 4:61PE 5:5James Smith preaches about the importance of humility, highlighting that true humility is a fruit of the Spirit and a mark of God's children. He describes how a humble Christian is honored, blessed, and grows in likeness to God, avoiding snares and receiving many blessings. Smith explains that humility is known by a deep sense of the evil of sin, a high esteem of the righteousness of Christ, submission under afflictions, gratitude for divine mercies, meekness under reproaches, contentment with one's station, and love for prayer and divine appointments.
"Getting Glory Out of Gray Days"
By A.W. Tozer0Finding Joy in Mundane LifeFaithfulness in TrialsISA 40:31PHP 4:11A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of finding glory in the mundane and gray days of life, encouraging Christians to accept their circumstances, themselves, and the times they live in. He outlines that life consists of three phases: soaring highs, fearful lows, and the often-overlooked gray days where faithfulness is key. Tozer reminds believers that God is always present, working in the shadows, and that true spiritual growth often occurs in these quieter moments. He encourages gratitude for God's creation and acceptance of one's unique identity and place in life, asserting that these gray days can yield rich spiritual treasures. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a life of faithfulness, walking with God even when feelings of excitement or fear are absent.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Not that I speak in respect of want - I am quite unconcerned in this respect; leaving the whole of my support, while bound for the testimony of Jesus, to the providence of God. For I have learned - I am so satisfied with the wise providence and goodness of God, that I know whatever he determines is the best; and therefore I am perfectly contented that he should govern the world in that way which seems best to his godly wisdom. How true is the proverb, A contented mind is a continual feast! What do we get by murmuring and complaining?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I have learned--The I in Greek is emphatical. I leave it to others if they will, to be discontented. I, for my part, have learned, by the teaching of the Holy Spirit, and the dealings of Providence (Heb 5:8), to be content in every state. content--The Greek, literally expresses "independent of others, and having sufficiency in one's self." But Christianity has raised the term above the haughty self-sufficiency of the heathen Stoic to the contentment of the Christian, whose sufficiency is not in self, but in God (Co2 3:5; Ti1 6:6, Ti1 6:8; Heb 13:5; compare Jer 2:36; Jer 45:5).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Not that I speak in respect of want,.... Either of want of will in them; of their slowness and backwardness in their care of him, postponing him to others, caring for him last of all; this gave him no uneasiness, he did not take it ill, knowing and owning himself to be less than the least of all saints: or of his own want before this present came; and his sense is, that he did not express himself with so much joy, because of the penury and distress he was in before the things came to him which they sent; for he was not in want; though he had nothing, he possessed all things, and was as happy, and in as comfortable a frame, and in as much content then as now: for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content; or "to be sufficient", as the Vulgate Latin version renders it; or that that is sufficient for me which I have, as the Syriac version renders it; for the word here used signifies to be self-sufficient, or to have a sufficiency in one's self, which in the strict sense of the phrase is only true of God, who is "El-shaddai", God all-sufficient; but, in a lower sense, is true of such who are contented with their present state and condition, with such things as they have, be they more or less, and think that they have enough, as old Jacob did, Gen 33:11; and such persons have a sort of an all-sufficiency in them; they are thankful for every thing they have, be it little or more, and in every state, whether of adversity or prosperity; and quietly and patiently submit to the will of God, and cheerfully take and bear whatever is assigned them as their portion; and such an one was the apostle: he was not only content with food and raiment, and such things as he had, but even when he had nothing at all; when he had neither bread to eat nor clothes to wear; when he was in hunger and thirst, in cold and nakedness, as was sometimes his case; and therefore he does not say here, that he had learnt to be content with such things as he had, but , "in what I am": and this he had not by nature, but by grace; it was not natural, but adventitious to him; it was not what he had acquired by his industry, but what he had "learned"; and that not in the school of nature and reason, while an unregenerate man; nor at the feet of Gamaliel, while he was training up under him in the law of Moses, and in the traditions of the elders; but he learned it of God, and was taught it by the revelation of Christ, and under the teachings of the Spirit of God, and that in the school of affliction, by a train of experiences, of many sorrows, afflictions, and distresses; for this lesson is learned quite contrary to all the rules and reasons among men, not by prosperity, but by adversity: many are the things that may excite and encourage to the exercise of this heavenly grace, where it is wrought; as the consideration of the unalterable will of God, according to which every man's state and condition is settled, and therefore what God has made crooked can never be made straight; and of our case when we came into the world, and what that will be when we go out of it, naked and bare of this world's things; and of our unworthiness of the least mercy at the hand of God: add to which, the consideration of God being our portion and exceeding great reward; of having an interest in Christ and all things in him; and of the profits and pleasures of a life of contentment; and of the promises which God has made to such; and of the future glory and happiness which will shortly be enjoyed: so that a believer may say, who has the smallest pittance of earthly enjoyments, this, with a covenant God, with an interest in Christ, with grace here and heaven hereafter, is enough.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:11-12 As a slave of Christ, Paul has learned to be content with every situation, whether he had plenty or little. His life was filled with the joy that comes from doing the will of God whatever the cost.