II. The Progress of the Gospel (Philippians 1:12-30)

II. The Progress of the Gospel (1:12-30)

1:12-14 Paul was experiencing difficult circumstances, but he wants the Philippians to know that God is using his suffering to promote the gospel. Other Christians were emboldened because they knew that Paul’s imprisonment was for Christ (1:13). They gained confidence and spoke the word fearlessly because of him (1:14). This brings up an important point: The gospel is not hindered by struggle and persecution when they are tied to our faith and witness.

1:15-18 There were two responses to Paul’s imprisonment and resulting gospel ministry. Some detractors were jealous of Paul’s impact and giftedness. Such people proclaimed Christ out of selfish ambition (1:15). They wanted to see Paul even more troubled (1:17)! Thankfully, many others preached Christ out of good will and love (1:15-16). Either way, Paul was thankful to hear that Christ was proclaimed. It takes a radical kind of God-centeredness to rejoice in gospel proclamation—even when the preachers intend your harm (1:18). But as long as Jesus was exalted and people were believing in him, Paul was content.

1:19-20 Paul declares that he will be vindicated through the prayers of the saints and help from the Spirit of Jesus Christ despite those working against him (1:19). He says his eager expectation and hope is that he will not be ashamed about anything in his life and ministry but will proclaim Christ with all courage. Because of his love for and commitment to Christ, Paul’s main concern is that Christ will be highly honored . . . whether by life or by death (1:20).

1:21-26 Without a hint of exaggeration or bravado, Paul writes, For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain (1:21). Paul’s purpose was to glorify Christ, come what may. The Lord Jesus was his all-consuming focus. He even admits his desire to depart and be with Christ—which is far better than remaining alive in this fallen world (1:23). Nevertheless, he knows that to remain in the flesh is more necessary so that he might continue to minister to the Philippian believers (1:24). Ministry requires self-sacrifice, and Paul was pleased to contribute to the spiritual growth of others so that their boasting in Christ Jesus could abound (1:26). By willingly laying down his life for the Philippians, Paul was simply following in the footsteps of his Master, Jesus Christ.

1:27 Paul wants to make sure these Philippian believers will honor Christ no matter what happens to him—whether I come and see you or am absent. He doesn’t know what the future holds for him, but he wants them to be strong and unified in the faith and in the gospel, living courageously for Christ and modeling faith to a watching world despite opposition. He summarizes their calling as living in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Their unity is also crucial to Paul because division can hurt the spread of the gospel (see 2:1-4; 4:2-3). Paul’s hope is to hear of them standing firm in one spirit, in one accord, contending together for the faith of the gospel.

1:28 Moreover, they were not to be frightened in any way by [their] opponents. Courage is crucial to our gospel witness. Paul says the Philippian Christians’ unashamed witness is a sign of destruction for their opponents but one indicating their own salvation. Of course, all of this is from God, the sovereign King who can embolden failing hearts and eradicate stumbling blocks.

1:29 Paul goes so far as to say that their suffering is a sign of God’s favor: For it has been granted to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him. Suffering may appear to be a strange gift, but it’s not. Suffering for the sake of Christ is purposeful, not purposeless. He allows it for our good and for his glory—and that makes all the difference.

1:30 Believers in Jesus Christ are called to take a stand for the gospel in love and truth regardless of repercussions, knowing that some people will support us and others will oppose us. That’s to be expected. The goal, whether it leads to life or death, is to make Christ look good and glorify his name. He takes note of everything and will not forget it.

The Philippians endured the same struggle as Paul. And we too are called to live for Christ despite struggle and opposition. Far from being a miserable existence, though, this is the only way to find true life and purpose. The one who lived for us, died for us, and rose to live again calls us to experience the only life that is truly life.