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Introduction
The book of Philippians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Philippi. In this letter, Paul shares his thoughts and encouragement with the Philippians, who were facing persecution and hardship. In chapter 1, verses 18-26, Paul expresses his joy and hope in the midst of his own difficult circumstances.
Verse 18: “What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice.”
This verse speaks to Paul’s attitude towards the preaching of the gospel, regardless of the motives of those who were preaching it. Paul recognized that the message of Christ was more important than the messenger, and he rejoiced in the fact that Christ was being proclaimed.
Verse 19: “For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ.”
Here, Paul acknowledges his dependence on the prayers of the Philippians and the provision of the Holy Spirit. He trusts that God will deliver him from his current situation, whatever that may be.
Verse 20: “According to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will not be put to shame in anything, but that with all boldness, Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.”
In this verse, Paul expresses his hope and expectation that he will not be put to shame, but rather that Christ will be exalted through his life or his death. Paul had a deep conviction that even if he were to die, it would be for the sake of Christ and the gospel.
Verse 21: “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
This well-known verse speaks to Paul’s view of life and death. He recognized that his ultimate purpose in life was to serve Christ, and that even death would be a gain because he would be with Christ.
Verse 22: “But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose.”
Here, Paul acknowledges that there is still work to be done on earth, and that if he were to continue living, he would be able to continue fruitful labor for Christ. However, he is torn between this desire and the desire to be with Christ in heaven.
Verse 23: “But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better;”
Paul feels torn between his desire to continue serving Christ on earth and his desire to be with Christ in heaven. He recognizes that being with Christ is “very much better,” but he also knows that there is still work to be done on earth.
Verse 24: “yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.”
Ultimately, Paul decides that it is more necessary for him to remain on earth for the sake of the Philippians and their growth in faith.
Verse 25: “Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith.”
Paul is convinced that he will remain with the Philippians and continue to help them grow in their faith and experience joy.
Verse 26: “so that your proud confidence in me may abound in Christ Jesus through my coming to you again.”
Finally, Paul expresses his desire to return to the Philippians so that their confidence in him and in Christ may be strengthened.
Conclusion
In Philippians 1:18-26, we see Paul’s unwavering faith and hope in the midst of difficult circumstances. He recognizes that the message of Christ is more important than the messenger, and he trusts in God’s provision and deliverance. He views life and death through the lens of his ultimate purpose – to serve Christ – and he is torn between his desire to be with Christ and his desire to continue fruitful labor on earth. Ultimately, Paul decides to remain on earth for the sake of the Philippians and their growth in faith. May we all be inspired by Paul’s example and continue to trust in God’s provision and purpose for our lives.
