Meditation

Hi there,

Paul’s introduction to his letter is now complete and he’s ready to share some news. His friends in Philippi know that he’s imprisoned, and they’re worried about him. In fact, they’ve sent him money (more on that later) to help support his ministry.

In this passage, Paul reassures them that he’s really doing ok … even better than ok, because his circumstances have been an opportunity for him to share the gospel message with the very men that he is chained to during his imprisonment.

The whole palace guard has noticed. And not only that, others are made more confident to proclaim Jesus when they see that Paul, even in chains, has the courage to do so.

Paul’s circumstances are advancing the gospel.

This makes me wonder … how can our own circumstances, whatever they may be, also be used to advance the gospel?

Sometimes we feel “chained” to something—a place, a job, a situation, a person, even—that can be a great challenge. Paul shows us here that even the most difficult circumstance can be used for the glory of God and for his purposes.

Paul doesn’t even care what motivates people to preach the gospel of Christ, or if he faces trouble because of it—only that the good news of Jesus is shared.

We’re stopping right in the middle of a verse, at “18a.” Notice the final word in today’s passage, and mark or highlight it if you’re keeping track of each time “joy” or “rejoice” is mentioned! We’ll pick up tomorrow at “18b” with a continuation of this same thought.

Today’s text is Philippians 1:12-18a

Paul’s Chains Advance the Gospel

12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.

14 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.

15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill.

16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.

17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.

18 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.

Encouragement

But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. 21 So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.

Genesis 50:19-2

Rebekah

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