Late Night February 6
Paul to the Church
Paul is writing to the church at Philippi. He is writing to thank them but also encourage them in spite of his circumstances. He is in prison. Although the church does not understand why things are happening Paul wants to shed light on the circumstances helping them to see God is in control.
Focus Passage
Philippians 1:12-18 ESV
I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former proclaim Christ out of rivalry, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice,
Paul lived his life to advance the Gospel
This was Pauls focus in life. He went into battle with one thing in mind each day. Advance the Kingdom, move back the enemy's lines.
Pauls Mission
Acts 9:15-16 ESV
But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name."
What are you advancing?
your agenda? your goal? your career? your desire?
Glorifying God is found in your satisfaction
Christian Hedonism says that only when we are totally satisfied in Christ can we give Him the glory He has due. Paul is completely satisfied with his circumstances, his life, with where Christ has him.
Some thoughts
Are you satisfied with God alone? Do you truly trust that God is fully in control of all circumstances? Does your life reflect it?
Take away
Paul understood this. He wanted the church to know it. There is only one goal the advancement the gospel. There is only one way - Glorifying God in all ways...