"Gimme, Gimme, Gimme"

12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, 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 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, 19 for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. 20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.

Picture into the perspective Paul had despite being in prison

Notes:

Most likely written from Rome, 10 years after Paul visited on his

This Section is typical in a letter of the day, catching the reader up on what is happening in the life of the author

Three Perspectives of Paul in prison for preaching Christ

A. Observing Providence (vv 12-14)

1. Unexpected Progress (v12)

you wouldn’t expect there to be traction after having been arrested

the whole point of arresting Paul was to stop him

instead Paul reflects on the reality that arresting him has had the opposite affect

really comes from nowhere in human perspective

Philippians would be concerned that the mission would be hindered

‘Advance’ - idea of building/progressing

the ‘proof’ of the advance is v13 & 14

2. Unplanned Witness (v13)

the reason for his presence was making Christ known

The gospel was being proclaimed even without Paul saying a word -

3. Newfound Boldness (v14)

The brothers outside the prison were affected by Paul’s imprisonment and his actions during imprisonment

‘because of my chains’

at least one person in Philippi would have a special

Requires: seeing the power of the gospel

B. Trusting the Gospel (Vv 15-18a)

1. Regardless of Motivation

2. Power in the Word

not magical, but truly effective in bringing about God’s will (some will reject)

3. Resulting in Encouragement

Causes rejoicing

C. Anticipating Christ’s Glory (Vv18b-20)

Even in his jailed state, Paul’s state is focused on what it means for Christ’s glory

1. Connections matter

believers (prayer)

Holy spirit (reliance)

2. Unknown is Known

Certain of his deliverance

Romans 8:28

Romans 8:28 ESV

28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Christ will be glorified whether living or dying

“Two things destroy the peace and tranquility of our lives; our bewailing past disappointments, or fearing future ones.” ― John Flavel, The Mystery of Providence

Measuring Your Encouragement

1. Evaluate your circumstances in light of your calling

philippians 3:14

Philippians 3:14 ESV

14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

1 cor 1:9

1 Corinthians 1:9 ESV

9 God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

2 Timothy 1:9

2 Timothy 1:9 NIV

9 He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,

Romans 8:28

Romans 8:28 ESV

28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24

1 Thessalonians 5:23–24 ESV

23 Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.

yes, in this world you will have trouble

not dour, not downcast

2. Fill up through the work of the Holy Spirit in the body

Romans 15:13

Romans 15:13 ESV

13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

locally and globally

emboldening to see bros & sisters standing under immense persecution

3. Develop an eternal perspective

Conclusion

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