Php_4:13. The Believer’s All-Sufficiency in Christ
"I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me"’97Php_4:13.
The Christian, in his way to glory, must guard against two sources of danger; self-confidence and despondency. They are the opposite extremes, yet the Christian is exposed to both of them. The Christian should despond as to self in every thing and he should be confident as to all things in and through Christ. This is delightfully expressed in the text,
I. The Christian’s Sufficiency for all things.
"I can do all things," &c. This of course is to be confined to all things God and religion require.
1. The Christian can perform all duties.
None beyond his ability. Perhaps to love our enemies; the greatest, &c.; yet Stephen did this, so did Paul.
2. The Christian car. make all sacrifices.
Abraham left his country. Moses abandoned the court of Pharaoh. Daniel. Paul ready to be offered up.
3. The Christian can resist all temptations.
Temptations to wealth, honor, pleasure.
4. Can overcome all enemies.
Vanquish Satan. Have the victory over the world. Crucify self. Triumph over death.
II. The Source of the Christian’s Sufficiency.
"Through Christ," &c. Christ is the depositary of all the good the soul can enjoy. Full of grace and truth. In him is also eternal life.
1. He is the strength of the soul, as bread is the support of the body.
"I am the," &c.
2. He is the strength of the soul, as the trunk is the strength of the branches.
"I am the true vine," &c.
3. He is the strength of the soul, as the foundation is the support of the building.
"Behold, I lay in Zion," &c.
4. He is the strength of the soul, as life is necessary to action.
"Christ your life," &c. Now, mark how Christ communicates this strength to his people.
(1) By his word. Word is compared to honey. To food. To a feast, &c.
(2) By his ordinances. Here he meets them and supplies their need. "They that wait upon the Lord," &c.
(3) By his Spirit’s gracious influence; comforting, cheering, assisting, &c. In all things, we obtain this strength by believing prayer. "In all things by prayer &c.
Application
1. Here is a solid basis for Christian hope and confidence.
2. Here is solace in every scene of trial and suffering.
Autor: JABEZ BURNS