To Live Is Christ, To Die Is Gain
Written by Christian
Sunday, 16 May 2010 09:00
Passage: Philippians 1:18-26
(18) But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, (19) for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. (20) I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. (21) For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (22) If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! (23) I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; (24) but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. (25) Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, (26) so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.
How did the Apostle Paul get to the place where he seemed almost indifferent to whether he lived or died? It wasn't indifference. He was focused on how he best could glorify God.
Paul's focus was on God's glorification.
"To live is Christ" means:
- To have first been made alive in Christ (see Galatians 2:20
- We are to model our lives after Christ - to live as He did
- Christ is our sole pursuit
God's glorification and our joy can be the same thing
Paul felt that God would keep him there on earth so that:
- the people's joy in Christ would overflow
- the people would grow in their faith
Other scripture references:
- Job 13:16
- Philippians 4:10-13
- 2 Corinthians 5:8