“Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances — Paul denies the gift was needed material aid. 'Learned to be content' (autarkeia, self-sufficiency) is a virtue prized in Stoicism but here Paulinely transformed: contentment is learned (through suffering and grace), not natural. 'Whatever the circumstances' (en hois eimi, in whatsoever I am) shows adaptability. The learning process suggests habitual practice in various states.
Church Fathers on Philippians 4:11
I have ofttimes said, that almsgiving has been introduced not for the sake of the receivers, but of the givers, for the latter are they which make the greatest gain. And this Paul shows here also. In what way? The Philippians had sent him somewhat, after a long time, and had committed the same to Epaphroditus. See then, how when he is about to send Epaphroditus as the bearer of this Epistle, he praises them, and shows that this action was for the need, not of the receiver,…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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