Philippians 1:12 – 29
We flew the material last Thursday in an effort to cover everything in the time allotted. From basic information about the “palace guards” possibly being physically attached Paul during his imprisonment to much deeper issues about our personal witness and the pain and struggles that have touched it.

We had a more lengthy discussion about the state of the church and the possible envy, rivalries, and judgments between the various denominations. Some of the group are still uncomfortable with the idea of some ministries being “acceptable” as long as “Christ is preached.” But this is, ultimately, Paul’s message in verse 18! An interesting comment came up that all this might change if the “teaching” impacts us as individuals and if it is false, it is so important to be well-grounded. And yet, it is still my over-arching belief that if one is authentically seeking the Lord, He will be found… in truth.

When we addressed Paul’s ability to be able to rejoice in his circumstances, we see him first rejoicing for the preaching of the gospel (his first concern, always) and secondly, he is rejoicing for his confidence in the Philippians continued support … through their prayers as well as their largess. Paul is able to see the big picture. And as someone added, Paul probably had “visions” of the spirit realm, an experience that gave him even more confidence of God’s hand upon his life. And as a result, Paul continues to have a “divine perspective.” He also believes that no matter what happens (alive or dead), Christ will be magnified.

Paul is willing to to enter into the sufferings of Christ, which is often difficult for us. If only we could hold onto the Truth: Christ controls our destiny. God must be in control in order to rejoice. To the degree that we allow God to be in control is the degree to which we can experience pure joy in our circumstances. And of course, the opposite is also true, to the degree that we do not allow God to be in control, we will experience worry, fear, anger, resentments… just to name a few.

In verse 20, Paul asks for courage that he not be ashamed. The shame he is talking about here is actually being “faint-hearted.” In other words, for him, to not speak the gospel, in even the most difficult situation, is to fail his Lord. We must all remember that courage is not the absence of fear but the resolve to act in the face of danger. Paul was human. He did fear despite being “sold out” for the Lord.

We then delved into the mystery of the phrase, “To Live is Christ.” When we started class I had everyone write a list of their activities and feelings for the week. At this point, we used this list to complete the phrase … To live is ___________. Here is where we see how we often live really. Maybe it’s “to live is working” or “to live is sleeping” or “to live is weeping” or “to live is praying.” Whatever it is, we must consider more mindfully what it means if we claim this phrase as our own. This is not a joke. This is not something to said in a cavalier way. Are we truly willing to live as Christ did? Are we willing to put on the feelings, activities, challenges, and love of Christ?

If we do, each day, then we are indeed as Christ walking amidst the people. Our existence is a testimony. Our “being” is a witness. We spend so much time worrying about “telling people about Jesus” and I say, if we are really living Christ, then our very conversations will speak Him. Jesus walked the roads and byways and ate with sinners and unbelievers. He taught but he did not “convince.” He spoke of the Father, of love, of the Kingdom of God, of reconciliation, of hope, of healing, … to live is Christ? Can we really do it? And then, can take the next step and actually believe that death is even better than that? (Oh, death where is thy sting?)

And lastly Paul entreats the Philippians (and us) to conduct themselves always in a manner worthy of the gospel. Someone brought Ephesians 4:1-5 as a pretty complete description of what that might mean. And part of that may include suffering. This is part of our “koinonia” with Christ. Often we fear the suffering OR we feel guilty because the truth is we really don’t want the suffering part of living his life in us.

Oh Lord, let my story be an authentic expression of You to that part of the world I touch.