January 21, 2009

Do You Live for the Gospel

“12 But I want you to know, brethren, that the things [which happened] to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, 13 so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; 14 and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. 15 Some indeed preach Christ even from envy and strife, and some also from good will: 16 The former preach Christ from selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my chains; 17 but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel. 18 What then? Only [that] in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice. 19 For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 20 according to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.” (Philippians 1:12-20 NKJV)

What a great perspective on life had Paul. He lived to see Christ preached. We are often caught up in life and lose our focus. However, we need to serve the King.

Paul didn’t care what happened to him as long as the Gospel was being preached. Now be careful here the text doesn’t say the end justifies the means. The means must be an accurate Gospel or the end will only be straw. However, if an accurate Gospel is preached it doesn’t matter if the motive of the preacher was right. At least it doesn’t matter to those who might be saved. It is sin for that preacher and he will have to answer for that.

However, let me get back to the point. I want to challenge you to be actively seeking to preach Jesus. Don’t make it something you will do if the situation is just right. Preach Him when the situation is not just right. I am not saying force-feed people that just gives occasion for blasphemy, but sow seed continually. When the seed takes a little root, go on and water it. Have Paul’s attitude as much as is within you. Let Christ be magnified whether by life or by death. Amen.