From Phillip

Look once more at Philippians 1:12-30.

Paul was not imprisoned because he was a burglar or thief. He was imprisoned solely because he was a disciple of Jesus Christ. And we know that Christians today are still imprisoned because of their faith and cruelly treated. Despite his imprisonment, Paul saw reason to rejoice. (1:12,18). The palace guards who guarded Paul were hearing about Christ and so were other people who encountered him. The Gospel was not restricted because he was.

But nowhere in this letter Paul present himself as a super-Christian. He admits his need of help and support. This support comes to him from two sources. The first is the prayers of his fellow Christians. (1:19). Paul often asked his converts to pray for him; see Romans 15:30, 2 Cor 1:11, Colossians 4:3.

His other source of help was divine, ‘the Spirit of Jesus Christ (1:19). Remember, too that Jesus promised that the Spirit will come alongside and stand with those who are persecuted (Matthew 10:19-20).

Paul declares in 1:21 that ‘to live is Christ and to die is gain; he is prepared for any eventuality, knowing that whatever happens, Christ will be exalted, and it will be for the sake and glory of Christ.

Paul ends this first chapter by urging his readers to ‘conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. (1:27). Paul knows that like him; the Philippian Christians will suffer persecution. See also 2 Timothy 3:12.

But we rejoice that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ (Romans 8:38-39).

Reflections and prayer:

  • Pray for Christians in this country and other countries who are enduring all types of persecution.
  • Are there things this coming week for which you will need prayer? Who might you ask to pray for you? Who might we reach out to this coming week, knowing something of their current circumstances?

Category: The Bridge , Thought for the week