Philippians 1:19-30

By hope on August 20, 2024

Let's read this section, which finishes up chapter 1.

Philippians 1:19-30 NKJV
[19] For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, [20] according to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. [21] For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. [22] But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. [23] For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. [24] Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. [25] And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith, [26] that your rejoicing for me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ by my coming to you again. [27] Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, [28] and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that from God. [29] For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, [30] having the same conflict which you saw in me and now hear is in me.

Recalling the circumstances Paul discusses in verse 19, reread verses 15-18.

Paul's words concerning his deliverance are clear; he's referring to release from prison.

However, Paul does not assume how God is going to deliver him.

...so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. Phil. 1:20b

Release from prison could be through the judgment of the Emperor or he could be executed, either way Paul is stating that Jesus will be magnified.

This is faith in God; to rest assured that whatever comes, God will be glorified. (Romans 5:5, 1 Peter 4:16)

Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely defend my ways to his face. Job 13:15 NIV

O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me. Psalm 25:2 KJV

Faith of this stature is proven by the attitudes and actions of the bearers.

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Phil. 1:21 NKJV

From the beginning of time into the present day, people have been put to death for their devotion to God. (1 John 3:12, Psa. 37:12, Matt. 27:23, John 10:32)

An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous,
And he who is upright in the way is an abomination to the wicked. Proverbs 29:27 NKJV

Therefore, Paul's words are a declaration and comfort to those also facing imprisonment and death for the sake of the Gospel. (Phil. 1:7)

For scripture is clear as to the future for those who are citizens of Heaven.

The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth it to heart: and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come. He shall enter into peace: they shall rest in their beds, each one walking in his uprightness. Isa. 57:1-2 KJV

And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise. Luke 23:43 KJV

With this confidence for his future, Paul describes his struggle between desiring to be with Christ and yearning to continue in the ministry for the glory of God.

[22] But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. [23] For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. [24] Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. Phil. 1:22-24 NKJV

In his acknowledgment of the conflicting longings, Paul is brought assurance.

[25] And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith, [26] that your rejoicing for me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ by my coming to you again. Phil. 1:25-26

This assurance brings Paul to instruction of which any follower can take note to apply.

[27] Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, [28] and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that from God. [29] For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, [30] having the same conflict which you saw in me and now hear is in me. Phil. 1:27-30

Paul's exhortation can be broken down into applicable chunks:

Let your conduct, in word, deed, and unity of the brethren, be worthy of the gospel of Christ. (Eph. 4:1; 2 Peter 1:4-9)
Faith and steadfast service to the Lord Jesus spreads and encourages other believers. (Romans 1:8; 1 Thess. 1:8-9)
Fear not those who persecute you, for the assurance of life eternal in believers enduring persecution and death is the testimony of salvation to those who believe and of destruction for those who do not. (Matt. 5:10-12; 2 Cor. 2:15-16)
It is a special blessing to be counted trustworthy by God that one suffer and die for Christ, for He suffered and died for all. (Romans 8:35-37)
Be mindful of those who are currently suffering for the gospel, for many have been suffering and are still. (Rev. 2:10-11)

Beginning with one's heart, the follower of Christ who has assurance of salvation carries both freedom and responsibility.

For those who are saved from eternal destruction (and fear of death is powerless) are they who have the accountability before God and mankind to walk in the Narrow Path, leading to the spread of the Gospel, the furtherance of the Kingdom, and the encouragement of the Saints.

Paul did not only exhort the church at Philippi to follow this, he lived it himself.

Which he proclaimed from the first; he was simply the bondservant of the Lord Jesus Christ and that this model for life was simply following in the footsteps of Jesus.

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. Matt. 16:24 KJV

Such examples and instruction should inspire each individual, for no one who embarks upon the journey of life in Christ Jesus walks alone, but rather are exhorted, directed, and encouraged through many avenues; through scripture, other followers, and the Holy Spirit.

Let us, each one, keep the faith, run the race, and cheer for those who also run.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You for Your Word. What a gift and blessing to be reading these lines and understand what mighty works You brought out of the suffering and endurance of so many believers who have been persecuted for their faith. Lord, I lift up those who are currently suffering. Lord, You know every single one and I humbly request that they feel Your sustaining grace, that they be filled with Your forgiveness for those who are persecuting them, and that You would grant them foresight, they would see this world and it's suffering is nothing compared to the glory awaiting Your people who are called by Your name, sealed by Your blood, clothed in the garments of righteousness, and secure in their future citizenship into the Kingdom of Heaven. Lord, for those who are not suffering persecution, please teach us to conduct ourselves as children of God, redeeming the time, speaking words which edify, and most of all serving You diligently, with eyes wide open, looking for Your return. I ask these things in Your name, Jesus. Amen.