Tag Archives: Philippians 4:13

Strength in the Messiah: A Greek Look at Philippians 4:13

Posted on April 1, 2021 by Greek Insights
Πάντα ἰσχύω ἐν τῷ ἐνδυναμοῦντί με Χριστῷ. (Philippians 4:13)

I am able for all things through Christ who strengthens me.

The Power of Sufficiency πάντα ἰσχύω – “I am strong for all things.” The verb ἰσχύω (present active indicative) means “to be strong,” “to have power or ability.” The direct object πάντα (“all things”) is accusative plural neuter, covering every situation Paul has discussed—from hunger to abundance. The emphasis is not on external achievement, but on inner spiritual sufficiency. Means of Empowerment

ἐν τῷ ἐνδυναμοῦντί με Χριστῷ – “in Christ who strengthens me.”

ἐν + dative indicates means or sphere—“by” or “through.”… Learn Koine Greek
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Strength Through Him: Present Tense and Empowered Endurance in Philippians 4:13

Posted on April 13, 2017 by Greek Insights
Πάντα ἰσχύω ἐν τῷ ἐνδυναμοῦντί με Χριστῷ. (Philippians 4:13)

I am able for all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Strength in the Present Tense

Philippians 4:13 is often quoted but rarely studied with precision. Its grammar reveals a quiet, ongoing strength—not one of bravado or spiritual self-sufficiency, but of present, continuous empowerment. Paul does not speak of sudden miracles or overwhelming force. The verb ἰσχύω and the participle ἐνδυναμοῦντι form a grammatical partnership that underlines steady, God-given resilience. This verse teaches that Christ is not merely a source of strength—He is the one actively strengthening in every moment.

Present Tense and Instrumental ἐν with a Participial Phrase

The core structure is: πάντα ἰσχύω (“I have strength for all things”) followed by the instrumental phrase ἐν τῷ ἐνδυναμοῦντί με Χριστῷ—“through the one strengthening me, Christ.”… Learn Koine Greek

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