Surely God’s wisdom has preserved many letters of Paul for our consideration of what very mature Christian living looks like. In this text Paul challenges our view of both life and death. Let’s learn and be encouraged by him. Read the text.
PAUL’S VIEW OF LIFE
- He lived rejoicing at the advance of the Gospel (v. 18). Amazingly, in the context, Paul is rejoicing that the Gospel advanced at his expense, as some taught the Gospel with malicious motives. (see vv. 15-18). Brethren, the Gospel is advancing in our day. This is something worth rejoicing in! We also have the ability to contribute to this rejoicing through our participation in advancing it!
- He lived believing in the power of prayer (vv. 19-20). As Paul wrote this letter from his imprisonment (likely in Rome), he was hopeful of his release through the prayers of his brethren (v. 19). Note that though he was an apostle of Christ, he did not minimize the efficacy of the prayers of his brethren. He believed their prayers could avail much (James 5:16) through the agency of the Spirit of Christ. Life to us ought to demonstrate our belief in prayer and the God of prayer.
- He lived to honor Christ (vv. 20-21). This was Paul’s number one aim. While he lived in the flesh, God would be honored with his life. He said in Romans 14:8, “For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s.” Paul lived and taught that life ought to be intentionally lived to please the Lord. Some may think of this as enslavement. Paul thought of it as true life and freedom!
- He lived knowing that he might die (vv. 20-21). This wasn’t Paul simply knowing that he might die of natural causes, but that he might die for his convictions and work for the Lord. Paul seemingly placed his life at peril at every turn, not foolishly, but also not backing down. He was determined to be faithful even to the point of dying for the cause of Christ (see Rev. 2:10).
- He lived for fruitful labor (vv. 24-26). Paul lived, in part, for what he could contribute to the faith of his brethren at Philippi. He had a strong desire to continue to serve them for their “progress and joy in the faith.” What does another year mean for us? Consider how you can help God’s children progress in joy and in the faith of Jesus.
PAUL’S VIEW OF DEATH
- Death meant gain to Paul (v. 21). The word “gain” means “profit or advantage.” (See the use of this word in Phil. 3:7 and Titus 1:11). In other words, at the point of death the scales would tip to his advantage! What a remarkable way to look at death! He understood the concept of the Lord recorded in Revelation 14:13, “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on…” Death would bring reward for Paul (see Jm. 1:12; Rom. 6:23), and it would also bring freedom from all of the ills he suffered (see Rev. 20:4).
Death also meant departing to “be with Christ” (v. 23). This was surely an unimaginable thought for Paul… dwelling in the presence of the glorious Lord! Paul knew and taught that being in the body meant being away from the Lord (see 2 Cor. 5:6, 8). Paul continually pressed toward the prize! (Phil. 3:14).
CONCLUSION
The more Paul longed to be in heaven, he was ok with his reward being delayed since it gave him the opportunity to strengthen the faith of his brethren. He also knew that the Lord would keep him through His power (1 Pt. 1:5).
What a challenge and blessing it is to see life and death a little more like Paul saw it!
Daren Schroeder
