Phil 1
Scripture
[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.
[27]Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel [28]without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. [29]For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him,..
Observation
The Philipians were experiencing opposition for believing Jesus was who He said He was. Writing to them from jail, Paul lets them know that even while he is in chains, God uses the trial for good – the whole palace guard, and everyone else becoming more confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
Even in the trials of jail, Paul conducts himself in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Even in circumstances like that, they are not to be afraid, remembering that those who oppose because of their following Christ, will be destroyed and they are saved by Christ by believing in Him. While they will find peace through Him, suffering for Him is what they signed up for.
Application
We are experiencing opposition as the Plilipians were. Opposition in our government, schools, workplace, and media. Wherever we look, wherever we go, there is outspoken opposition, resentment, and harassment toward us for walking with Jesus and believing in Him. In this country we may not literally be in jail for spreading the Gospel, but in other countries this is not the case. We are however finding stronger and stronger opposition to be more and more against the Lord and all who follow Him. Paul reminds us not to be afraid. We know where our salvation comes from.
We are always to be obedient, conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, and honor him in all that we do. As we stand strong in our faith in Christ Jesus, we may suffer through persecution. Even if it gets that bad here, where we are imprisoned for spreading the Gospel, the Lord can use it for good as we honor, obey, and glorify Him.
Prayer
Lord we love You. Thank you for our salvation and knowing that there is no need to be afraid. We know You are with us even when we are being tested. May we be obedient to You, and glorify You in all that we do. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray. Amen.