[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. [21] For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. [22] If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! [23] I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; [24] but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. [25] Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, [26] so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.
Philippians 1:12-26
Q & A：
- Discuss the general background of the book of Philippians. Discuss why it is necessary for every Bible reader to know the background of the Bible book (in this case, Philippians) that he/she is reading. (Philippians 1:12-26；2Corinthians 6:2b)
- Before his imprisonment in Rome/writing of the Philippians epistle, was Paul at the “peak” or the “trough” of his missionary career? Why? From the key text and the sermon, discuss how Paul dealt with one of the greatest crises in his life. Discuss the application of these principles in your life.（Romans 11:13；2 Corinthians 11:23b-27）
- Share how you can better relate to your Christian brothers and sisters and non-Christian colleagues, friends and relatives so that Christ is glorified and the Gospel is advanced. (Philippians 3:8; Philippians 1:15-17; Philippians 1:18; 1 Corinthians 15:10; John 13:34-35)
- Reflect/discuss Paul’s achievements and how he endured/suffered for Christ. Why do you think Paul was able to do this? Discuss identity in Christ and how it can make you secure and effective. Share your own experience/testimony (2 Corinthians 11:23b-27; Romans 8:32; Philippians 4:4-7; 1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 1:21)
Summary：
This week’s sermon was shared by guest speaker George Chang, who, through the journey of the Apostle Paul’s life, reminded us that living for God’s glory is our primary purpose in life. As apostle Paul introduced himself in the book of Philippians, he explained that his life had once been dedicated to pursuing fleeting self-worth, a pursuit he found himself deeply immersed in. However, when he encountered the resurrected Christ on the road to Damascus, his life was radically transformed. Christ became his greatest treasure, and His glory became Paul’s lifelong pursuit. For the sake of the gospel and the righteousness of Christ, Paul willingly forsook everything. In the sermon, George led us to reflect on how, like Paul, we can place Christ above everything in our lives and live for His glory. The message encouraged us to not only set our goal in life to glorify God, but also make it our aim in every single thing we do. By continually modeling our lives after Jesus, and as we increasingly rely on God’s wisdom, we will be better equipped to face life’s difficulties and challenges. Through our lives, we can spread the gospel further, testifying to the greatness of God’s glory. Let us continue to make Christ our greatest treasure in the days ahead, living for His glory, and allowing this to be the driving force behind everything we do.