Scope of "all things"
John Calvin
Reformation (1509-1564)
Focuses on what is good and right in God's eyes, not any sinful desire.
Charles H. Spurgeon
Victorian (1834-1892)
Implies readiness for any circumstance or task God allows.
Verse Smart · Commentary comparison
Philippians 4:13 Commentary
What do the great Christian commentators say about Philippians 4:13? Below is a side-by-side look at how Matthew Henry, John Calvin, Charles Spurgeon, Albert Barnes, and John Wesley read this passage — where they agree, where they diverge.
Philippians 4:13 · WEB
“I can do all things through me strengthening me.”
What the commentators agree on
- The ability to do 'all things' mentioned in the verse comes from Christ's power, not our own.
- This enabling power allows believers to face trials and perform God's will.
- The strength is supplied by God through Christ for Christian living and service.
Where they differ slightly
Summaries are AI-rendered overviews of public-domain commentaries (Henry, Calvin, Spurgeon, Barnes, Wesley). Always consult primary sources for study.
Each commentator on Philippians 4:13
Matthew Henry
Late Puritan (1662-1714)
Henry saw this verse as a declaration of confidence in Christ's power, enabling believers to overcome any hardship or perform any duty. He emphasized that this strength is not our own but comes from Christ who lives in us.
“This strength is Christ's, not our own, enabling us to do all God calls us to do.”
John Calvin
Reformation (1509-1564)
Calvin understood this verse to mean that believers, through Christ's power, can endure all trials and fulfill all God's commands. He stressed that 'all things' refers to what is good and right in God's eyes, not any sinful desire.
“All God-given abilities and endurance come from Christ's power working within.”
Charles H. Spurgeon
Victorian (1834-1892)
Spurgeon viewed this verse as a powerful statement of faith, assuring believers that with Christ's constant help, they can face any challenge and accomplish any task He sets before them. He highlighted it as a source of courage and determination.
“This promise is for every child of God, empowering them for every circumstance.”
Albert Barnes
Antebellum American (1798-1870)
Barnes explained that Paul meant he could do all necessary things for his ministry and endure all hardships by the power Christ supplied. He believed the strength was divine, given to meet God's requirements and withstand trials.
“The power to do all required 'things' comes from Christ enabling us.”
John Wesley
Methodist (1703-1791)
Wesley interpreted this verse to mean that through Christ, believers can overcome their weaknesses and accomplish all God's will. He saw it as a declaration of victory over sin and a testament to the empowering grace of God.
“Believers can do all things, especially things good and pleasing to God, through Christ.”