April 11, 2018 - - Philippians 1:12 The cost of advancing the gospel
/I want you to know brothers,
that what has happened to me
has really served to advance the gospel
Philippians 1:12 ESV
Paul wrote those words while he was imprisoned for the sake of Jesus. Amazing. Humanly speaking imprisonment is shameful. For the sake of Jesus imprisonment is for the glory of the gospel and blessing to the Name of Jesus. While in prison, many learned of Jesus, Who He is and why our lives are to be dedicated to Him.
Does that extend to Christians today? Whatever is happening to you, does it serve to advance the gospel? Are you suffering at work because it is known that you are a Christian? Then yes, what you are going through serves to advance the gospel.
Are you suffering sickness requiring hospital visits or regular medical attention? It can serve to advance the gospel. This one particularly comes at some cost to me as I wrestle with depression. Yet there have been a number of times where it has been the case God used this to advance the gospel.
What about celebrations? Birthday parties, anniversaries, promotions, quiet times with friends, family reunions, neighbourhood BBQ's, these too can be used to advance the gospel. Our lives are bound up in Jesus our King, therefore wherever we go, whatever we do, we are His ambassadors. What happened or happens to us really does serve to advance the gospel.
God of Love and Power--for You hold the past, the present and the future of every believer in Your care. No matter what happens to me, to my particular church, or to the family of believers, for good or woe, it is given not by chance but from Your Fatherly hand. Prepare me, Spirit of God, so that in all things I will testify to Jesus Christ, the Captain of my salvation. Prepare us, together as believers, Spirit of God, so that in all things we will hold fast to Jesus Christ our Very Great Reward, and seek to advance the gospel. Amen.
