How can we discern motives when others preach Christ, as in Philippians 1:15? Setting the Scene Philippians 1:15 tells us: “Some, to be sure, are preaching Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill.” Paul opens a window into a church reality that still exists today—Christ can be proclaimed with very different motives. The gospel message may be perfect, yet the messenger’s heart can be skewed. How, then, do we discern motives when we hear Christ preached? What Paul Observed in Philippi • Two groups were at work: – “Out of envy and rivalry” – jealous of Paul’s influence, eager to elevate themselves. – “Out of goodwill” – rejoicing in Christ, supportive of Paul. • Paul did not question the truthfulness of their message—Christ was indeed being preached. • Still, he recognized that motives affect fellowship, credibility, and ultimately reward (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:13–15). Why Motives Matter • God weighs the heart: “All the ways of a man are clean in his own sight, but the LORD weighs the motives” (Proverbs 16:2). • Love gives ministry real value (1 Corinthians 13:1–3). • Selfish ambition stirs division (James 3:14–16). • Pure motives honor Christ and edify His body (Ephesians 4:29). Scriptural Markers for Discernment Look for these biblical indicators before embracing a preacher’s influence: 1. Love for Christ and His people • “The love of Christ compels us” (2 Corinthians 5:14). • Does the preacher exalt Jesus or self? Are believers built up in love? 2. Humility and servanthood • “We do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants” (2 Corinthians 4:5). • Is there a willingness to decrease so Christ may increase? 3. Commitment to sound doctrine • “Hold to the standard of sound teaching” (2 Timothy 1:13). • Are Scripture texts handled faithfully, context honored, truth spoken plainly? 4. Transparent lifestyle • “We have renounced secret and shameful ways” (2 Corinthians 4:2). • Is the messenger’s life consistent with the message? 5. Spiritual fruit over time • “You will recognize them by their fruit” (Matthew 7:20). • Watch for enduring fruit—lives changed, holiness produced, relationships healed. 6. Motivation of grace, not greed • “We never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover greed” (1 Thessalonians 2:5). • Is material gain, fame, or control driving the ministry? Guarding Our Own Hearts • Remember we too can slide into envy or rivalry; examine ourselves regularly (Psalm 139:23–24). • Seek the Spirit’s filling so love, joy, peace, and the other fruit flow genuinely (Galatians 5:22–23). • Serve for Christ’s glory alone, knowing He sees the hidden intentions (Hebrews 4:12–13). Responding When Motives Are Mixed • Rejoice that Christ is preached (Philippians 1:18), yet stay discerning. • Support and partner with those whose hearts and doctrine align with Scripture. • Gently warn or distance yourself from ministries marked by persistent selfish ambition, while praying for repentance (2 Timothy 2:24–26). • Keep your focus on the gospel itself, trusting God to sort motives perfectly at the judgment seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10). By anchoring our discernment in the clear standards of God’s Word, we can navigate mixed motives without cynicism, celebrate every true proclamation of Christ, and pursue our own calling with purity and joy. |
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