Suffering CAN Advance the Gospel


“Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.  If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;  but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.” Philippians 1:12-26
Paul wrote the letter of Philippians to the people of Philippi while he was in prison. “...In chains for Christ...” are literal chains!
How does one praise God for being in chains? V. 13-14 & V.18 Christ is being preached without fear because of Paul’s confidence in the gospel message. He is willing to be in prison, literal chains, for the gospel and salvation of others.
V.15-17 Paul knows that others are preaching the Good News as well because of his imprisonment. Is it perfect preaching and the best sermons ever heard? NO but V.18 Paul doesn’t care because the focus isn’t on him, but rather on Christ.
V.22-24 Paul doesn’t ignore but expresses his desire to go and be with the father but he knows he is more useful here helping others. 
9 times in V. 19-26 Paul says he “WILL” do something; rejoice, remain, continue, abound, wait for deliverance, have sufficient courage, etc. He will do things even though he doesn’t know what’s next. That is called faith. 
Later in the same chapter, Paul encourages the reader on how to be content in all situations. Knowing he was writing this in prison but found his joy from the Lord alone, talk about contentment!
“Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6 
Paul used his story and situation to bring God all the glory. How can we do the same with the life we are blessed to live?

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