The letter to the Philippians is perhaps the most human of all of Paul’s writing. What I mean by that is that in this brief letter you see his heart more clearly than anywhere else. And in this week’s passage, we see it the most clearly of all.
You can find this glimpse of Paul’s heart in Philippians 1:21-22:
Paul’s letter is full of rejoicing. He loves seeing the Philippians grow in their faith. He loves knowing that they are pursuing the gospel whole-heartedly. He is excited about the levels of spiritual maturity they are displaying through their behaviors and actions. He loves seeing them grow, even from afar.
On the other hand, he longs to be with them to encourage them more as they deepen their faith. But he is hindered by prison, and he does not know if he will survive it or not.
In this passage, we see clearly how torn Paul is. He earnestly desires to stay and continue to advance the gospel, in partnership with the Philippian believers. But on the other hand, if he dies, he stands in the presence of Jesus himself! His heart is torn by the choice he faces.
Paul’s statement here refers directly back to the previous statement in verse 20. And at the same time, it is perhaps one of the greatest statements of personal conviction and devotion to the faith ever uttered.
Paul’s statement here is a study in contrasts, and those contrasts are so similar, and yet so different. To live is Christ. To live is to promote the gospel of Christ. To live is to encourage others to stand for Christ and to grow in Christ.
But to die is Christ as well. To die means to stand before Christ personally! To see him face to face!
There is no way Paul can lose! Both options are fantastic opportunities. And yet, Paul is torn. He longs to see and experience both, and does not know which he should long for more.
However, either way, Christ will be glorified, either by his continued life, or by his death.
And Paul must be content with that. He displays that contentment in verse 27, knowing that his efforts were not in vain, regardless of the outcome.
My prayer for my life is that I can be just as focused, no matter what my circumstances my be or the future may bring. I want to live for Christ, no matter what.
Question: What about you? How do you feel about the example set by Paul here, as it may apply to your life? You can leave a comment by clicking here.