Philippians 1:12-26
Q.1. What impact did Paul’s fearless preaching have while in Rome? Can we expect a similar response today? – (Phil.1:12-20)
Paul was under house arrest in Rome, with soldiers guarding him where he stayed in his own rented quarters – … solemnly testifying about the kingdom of God and trying to persuade them concerning Jesus, from both the Law of Moses and from the Prophets … (Acts 28: 23 c.f. Acts 28:16). Paul’s boldness increased the knowledge of the Gospel, emboldened the believers of the church at Rome, and – turned out for the greater progress of the gospel (Phil.1:12 c.f. Phil.1:13-14). Some tried to provoke Paul, by belittling him because of his house arrest. However, the Gospel continued to be proclaimed, and Paul rejoiced that it was being preached to more and more unbelievers, regardless of the motives of some of those doing the preaching. (Phil.1:15-18). Paul was determined to be faithful unto death, so that – Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death (Phil.1:20). Paul believed that Heaven, not earth, was his ultimate destiny.
Q.2. Was Paul bothered by the prospect of death? How did he approach each day while on earth? Do you approach life that way? – (Phil.1:20-26)
Paul laboured on for His Master, Who alone is worthy of our best. He believed he could not lose, whether in life or death – 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain (Phil.1:21). He explained why he was just as happy to go as to stay – I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better (Phil.1:23). He explained that he still had work to complete for the Lord and was determined to help believers to grow in joy and faith (Phil.1:24-25). He still held out hopes for his release, and that he would come to them again (Phil.1:26). As long as he had breath, Paul was committed to building up the church.