flashing apple logo only when plugged in outlet iPhone 4

My iphone seems to have some issues and is only flashing the apple logo and then will go over to the grey screen where in white it says iphone and configure scrolls along the bottom. If i swipe (it is still plugged into outlet) it will prompt for my passcode then the "connect to itunes" screen appears. I go to unplug and connect the phone to my laptop to itunes (via apple usb) even though I have iCloud and the phone dies. I keep phone on the usb and the apple logo just flashes on for 10 seconds then off for 5-8 seconds. I have now plugged the phone back into the outlet on the wall hoping it will take a charge for the battery? HELP!!!