Philippians 1 — Greeting, Advance of the Gospel, To Live is Christ
Thoughts about serving others
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Let the Word evoke words. May your life encourage lives.
Paul begins his letter to the Philippians with great encouragement: “he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). This assurance gives me hope today as we move across the country. Christ will keep working in me to complete the work he has ordained for me. This is humbling and challenging. Lord help me to keep moving in your direction this and every day.
I struggle a bit with Paul’s acceptance of all those who preach Christ with less than pure motives, something we should wrestle with a bit. “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” (1:18). Perhaps I’ve become somewhat cynical in my old age, but really Paul, you rejoice in anyone who preaches Christ? But here’s the point: If I elevate myself to be the judge of brothers, have I not put myself in God’s place? May it never be! However, church leaders must be discerning and constantly discriminating between right and wrong. I also believe that Paul’s writing here is focused on “those who preach Christ” not those who preach a false doctrine–that’s where the rubber meets the road. If someone is preaching Christ, but their motivation does not match my perspective, I might label them selfish, envious or ambitious, but if they are truly preaching Christ, who am I to judge.
Standing firm in Christ, living a life in a manner worthy of our calling “is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God” (1:28). This harsh reality is provided not to exclude people from salvation; rather, it’s to elevate the significance of living a lifestyle that is above reproach. The city of Philippi is a haven for Roman citizens, there is no synagogue mentioned because it didn’t exist. Paul is preaching to those who have been conquerers for the emperor and now they are Christians representing the ultimate King Jesus. I think they greatly appreciate these direct words as we should even this day. Lord I pray that I would live my life in a manner worthy of your great sacrifice. Please help me to remember this every hour of every day!