WHAT MATTERS MOST
Opening Prayer
In this special season of anticipation, Father, help me to be attentive to what truly matters. Help me to be prepared to give reason for the hope that is mine because of Jesus.
Read PHILIPPIANS 1:12-18a
Paul’s Chains Advance the Gospel
12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters,[a] 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[b] 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.
Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,
Footnotes
- Philippians 1:12 The Greek word for brothers and sisters (adelphoi) refers here to believers, both men and women, as part of God’s family; also in verse 14; and in 3:1, 13, 17; 4:1, 8, 21.
- Philippians 1:13 Or whole palace
New International Version (NIV)Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Reflect
Think of a time when something good emerged out of something bad in your life. Where was God in this?During Paul’s house arrest, the good news has become more widely known. He has a captive audience (v 13). He points out to the Philippians at least one other good thing that has happened (v 14). He even turns something potentially displeasing into a blessing.
He brushes off suspiciously motivated preachers (vs 15-18). He doesn’t see them as serious opposition like those referred to later in the letter. Instead, he adopts Jesus’ attitude in Mark 9:38-41: ‘Whoever is not against us is for us.’ What matters is that people hear about Jesus. Being united in Christ matters to Paul. He emphasizes this throughout his letter.
There are many Christian groupings throughout the wider church. Some revolve around a personality or history, a particular doctrine or emphasis, or a desire to reach a geographical area or section of society. Many result from a falling-out. Paul draws attention to what all Christians hold in common. Together we preach Christ crucified (1 Corinthians 1:23). It is the role of the Holy Spirit to then convict people of their need for God’s forgiveness and love. Tertullian, the early church father, told how pagans commented on Christians’ behavior: ‘See how they love one another.’
Apply
Where do you see the different ways Christian groups represent Christ as beneficial to the spreading of the gospel?
Closing prayer
Father in heaven, I pray for healing among Christians where there is bitter division; show them how to love one another, appreciating that they are all brothers and sisters in Christ, loved by him.
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