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Living for Christ

In Philippians chapter one we learn something of the deep affection Paul has for the church at Philippi. He has the Philippian believers in his heart (1 v 7). He describes them as,

"my brothers whom I love and long for, my joy and crown" (4 v 1)

But Philippians chapter 1 reveals much more than Paul's affection for the church.

It reveals the one great passion that burns within Paul.
It reveals his raison d'être - his reason for living.

Even though Paul is in prison when this letter was written - we find him rejoicing.

Why? Because the gospel is being preached. Paul is in prison for the sake of the gospel; he is facing the criticism and petty jealousies of others who want to stir up trouble for him. And yet Paul is able to say,

"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." (1 v 18)

Paul's great passion is for Christ to be preached.

The gospel of Christ is far more important to Paul than his own comfort.
The gospel of Christ is far more important than his own reputation.

But there is another aspect of Paul's great passion that is revealed in these verses.

Paul not only wants Christ to be preached, he wants Christ to be exalted - exalted in him (v 20). He is able to say;

"For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." (v 21)

• Paul is utterly Christ-centred
• Christ is Paul's reason for living
• Christ is his purpose
• Christ is his hope
• He longs to see Christ's kingdom built
• He longs to see Christ exalted
• If he lives - he lives for Christ
• If he dies - he will be with Christ

Paul's great passion is,

• Christ preached
• Christ exalted

What about us?
What is our great passion, our raison d'être?
Can we say with Paul,

"For me to live is Christ and to die is gain?"

 

 

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