How can we rejoice in Christ being preached, as Paul does in Philippians 1:18? Setting the Scene: Paul’s Chains and Confidence - Imprisoned in Rome, Paul watches rivals seize his pulpit, yet he exclaims, “Christ is preached. And in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice” (Philippians 1:18). - His joy hinges on the gospel’s advance, not on personal comfort or reputation (Philippians 1:12-14). Rejoicing Because Christ Is Proclaimed—Even Through Mixed Motives - Some preach “out of envy and rivalry,” others “out of love” (Philippians 1:15-17). - Paul’s lens: the message, not the messenger. If Christ is faithfully announced, God works—even through flawed hearts (Genesis 50:20). - “The gospel… is the power of God for salvation” (Romans 1:16). Its power is intrinsic, undiminished by the speaker’s motives. Reasons Our Hearts Can Celebrate the Gospel’s Advance • Christ is exalted when His saving work is named (John 12:32). • Sinners hear the only rescue from wrath (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). • God’s word never returns void (Isaiah 55:11). • Opposition backfires; “the word of God is not bound” (2 Timothy 2:9; cf. Philippians 1:12). • Our joy aligns with heaven’s celebration over every repentant sinner (Luke 15:7). Practical Steps to Foster This Joy Today - Celebrate every faithful gospel presentation—sermon, street corner, podcast, social feed. - Pray that God multiplies fruit even through imperfect messengers, then thank Him when He does. - Resist cynicism by recalling how grace reached you through imperfect people. - Share the gospel yourself; participation fuels joy (Philemon 6). - When hearing of conversions or missions breakthroughs, echo Paul aloud: “And in this I rejoice.” Echoes Across Scripture That Sustain This Joy - Acts 5:41-42—The beaten apostles rejoice, then keep preaching “Jesus is the Christ.” - Psalm 96:2-3—“Proclaim His salvation day after day… declare His glory among the nations.” - 1 Thessalonians 1:8—The word sounds forth and Paul bursts into thanksgiving. - Revelation 5:9-10—Heaven worships the Lamb for ransoming people “from every tribe and tongue.” Whenever Christ is preached, Christ is magnified, souls are rescued, Scripture is vindicated, and God is glorified—that is always cause for joy. |
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