Read Philippians 1:12-26.

Introduction⤒🔗

I paged through my high school yearbook one day, glancing at the senior pictures of my classmates and taking note of their ambitions. Let me share with you some of the ambitions to which my classmates aspired:

Bob wanted to become an engineer
Dave wanted to become an accountant
Ken wanted to become a teacher
Cathy wanted to become a fashion designer
Henry wanted to make money
Grace’s ambition was to understand
Dan’s ambition was fulfillment
Lois had very little ambition

Did they achieve their goals? Did they attain success?

I was paging through another book and came across two fascinating life histories. The one was that of a true “Renaissance Man;” he was a builder, a landscaper, a connoisseur of fine music, a man who had it all; and yet, this was his testimony:

I undertook great projects: I built houses for myself and planted vineyards. ⁵I made gardens and parks and planted all kinds of trees in them. ⁶I made reservoirs to water groves of flourishing trees. ⁷I bought male and female slaves and had other slaves who were born in my house. I also owned more herds and flocks than anyone...before me. ⁸I amassed silver and gold for myself, and the treasures of kings and provinces. I acquired men and women singers, and a harem as well: the delights of the heart of man. ⁹I became greater by far than anyone...before me. In all this my wisdom remained with me. ¹⁰I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor. ¹¹Yet, when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had labored to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.Eccl. 2:4-11

The other life story was that of a university-educated scholar who had lost his standing in his academic community and now found himself a political prisoner, this is his testimony:

¹⁹I know that, through your prayers and the help provided by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, the result of all this will be my deliverance. ²⁰This is in keeping with my heart-felt expectation and hope that in no circumstance will I be put to shame; on the contrary, I have all confidence that as always, so now also, Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death; ²¹because for me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Phil. 1:19-21

As we examine this next passage in the Epistle to the Philippians, let us consider the one true formula for success: A Life Lived for the Lord Jesus Christ.

Live for Christ, and You Will Never Be Disappointed←⤒🔗

In verse twenty, the Apostle Paul speaks of his confident hope and expectation: “in no circumstance will I be put to shame.” The Greek word (αισXυνομαι) translated, “put to shame,” can also be rendered, “to be disappointed.” The main idea conveyed by this word is that of being confounded, defeated, or reduced to a state of humiliation and ruin. But Paul is confident that in the ultimate sense, such shall never happen to him. He has the same confidence as that expressed by the Psalmist: “To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul; ²in you I trust, O my God. Do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. ³No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame” (Psl. 25:1-3a).

Paul goes on to explain the positive aspect of his confident expectation: “Christ will be exalted in my body.” His hope is not that he personally shall be honored, but rather that Christ shall be honored, indeed, exalted in him.

Consider the dimensions of this conviction: How far does it reach? What does it include? Nothing less than all the circumstances and events of life; whatever happens: “in no circumstance will I be put to shame; on the contrary, I have all confidence that as always, so now also, Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death” (Phil. 1:20).

The Apostle Paul’s conviction is reinforced by past episodes in his life. In verses 12-14, he relates how his imprisonment, intended to silence the gospel, has actually resulted in a greater propagation of the gospel: By virtue of Paul’s testimony in prison, the gospel is reaching a new audience, the Praetorian Guard, (a contingent of elite Roman soldiers). By virtue of Paul’s faithful witness even as a prisoner, more Christians are taking courage to speak out for Christ, so now Paul’s witness is multiplied by that of the Roman Christians.

In verses 15-18, Paul relates that even though there are those who are preaching the gospel from ulterior motives, they are nevertheless preaching the gospel and thus inadvertently helping to advance the cause of Christ despite their true intentions. These men were apparently hoping to incite Roman opposition against Paul by publicly proclaiming that Paul is preaching that Jesus, not Caesar, is the true Lord over all.

Paul’s conviction is rooted in his commitment to Christ; he states his conviction as follows: “I have all confidence that as always, so now also, Christ will be exalted... ²¹because for me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:20-21). Christ the Lord is the Lord of Paul’s life, and Christ is the object of Paul’s desire. Is Christ the Lord also the Lord of our life, is He the supreme object of our desire?

The Psalmist testifies: “Whom have I in heaven [except you]? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides you” (Psl. 73:25). When the Psalmist writes of God, “there is none upon earth that I desire besides you,” he is testifying that there is no one on a par with the Lord; no one holds an equal status with the LORD. Consider, too, his testimony in Psalm 63, “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water...³your loving kindness is better than life, my lips will praise you” (Psl. 63:1,3).

Not only is Christ the supreme object of the Apostle Paul’s desire, Christ is also the supreme objection of his devotion. Is He also the supreme object of our devotion? Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:15, “[Christ] died for all, so that they who live should no longer live for themselves, but for him who for their sakes died and rose again.”

Because Christ is the supreme object of the Apostle Paul’s life, (his life revolves around Christ: “for me, to live is Christ”), and because Christ is the supreme love of his life, Paul can declare, “for me to die is gain.” Paul can confidently make this assertion, because he knows that, as a Christian, death will bring him into a deeper, purer, more direct and undistracted communion with Christ: “I have the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better” (vs. 23). Again, he testifies to the Corinthians: “We are confident, indeed, well pleased...to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord” (2 Cor. 5:8). This Christian confidence is developed as you consciously live for Christ and in fellowship with Christ in this present world.

Are we able to make the same testimony as the Apostle Paul? Can we pray with the Psalmist: “Oh send out your light and your truth, let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. ⁴Then I will go to the altar of God, to God, my exceeding joy” (Psl. 43:3-4)? As we put our trust in Christ and devote ourselves to Him, He will prove to be the true love of our life, the One who is worthy of our complete devotion, the One who is the ultimate desire of our heart. Devotion to Christ is the Christian’s calling; fellowship with Christ is the Christian’s supreme reward.

Live for Christ, and you will never be disappointed in the ultimate and eternal sense:

But as for me, I look to the LORD, I wait in hope for God my Savior; my God will hear me. ⁸Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light... ⁹He will bring me out into the light; I will see his justice. Mic. 7:7-9

Live for Christ, by Accepting His Will for His Sake←⤒🔗

Consider the Apostle Paul’s present circumstances: he is in prison at Rome waiting the day of his trial. He will soon stand before Caesar and the decision shall be made as to whether he will be released or executed.

From the account given in Acts 28:16, we learn that initially, upon arriving in Rome to have his case heard before Caesar’s court, Paul was confined under moderate “house arrest:” he was permitted to live by himself, in his own rented house (28:30), with a soldier to guard him. This situation of “house arrest” continued for two full years, during which time Paul was permitted to entertain guests and was free to preach and teach without hindrance (Acts 28:30-31).

It was during these years of his Roman captivity that the Apostle Paul wrote the four New Testament Epistles that have become known as “The Prison Epistles.” Some prefer to describe them as “The Captivity Epistles,” since Paul was in detention at the time of writing but not necessarily confined to prison (as noted above). These four Epistles include Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon, (which, evidence indicates, were all written at the same time), and Philippians. Both Ephesians and Colossians testify that the apostle had some degree of liberty, as he requests prayer that he may make the most of his opportunities to proclaim the gospel (Eph. 6:19-20; Col. 4:3-4). In the Epistle to Philemon, Paul expresses the expectation that he will be released, and in that expectation, he requests Philemon, “prepare a guest room for me, for I trust that through your prayers, I shall be granted to you” (Phl. 22).

But the case is different with the Epistle to the Philippians. As Paul describes his present circumstances to the Philippian congregation, he indicates that, while many others are preaching the gospel, he is not free to do so (1:12-18a). Furthermore, Paul anticipates that his case is soon to come to trial for a final verdict. He is quite confident that it will result in his release (1:25-26), but he does not dismiss the possibility that the final outcome may be martyrdom (2:17-18).

What may account for this change in the apostle’s circumstance, a change from a very mild form of incarceration to a much more restrictive and severe form, and a change in expectations concerning the outcome of his trial?

Perhaps the change of circumstance was due to the series of sinister events that took place within the Roman government at this time. The political horizon was growing darker every day. These events were set in motion by the death of the emperor Nero’s most trusted advisor, Burrus, the prefect of the praetorian guard. This “noble Roman” was replaced in the office of prefect by Tigellinus, a man who would become known for his cruelty. Furthermore, with the death of Burrus, the wise influence at court of the Roman philosopher, Seneca, was severely curtailed.

No longer restrained by the influence and guidance of Burrus and Seneca, Nero’s guilty career began to escalate out of control. There would soon come his divorce from Octavia; then the cruel and shameless Poppea would become the emperor’s escort. Poppea had become a proselyte of Judaism, and more than once advocated the cause of her adopted race before the emperor with zeal and success. These changes of circumstance in the Roman court may account for the change of circumstance in the apostle’s confinement, as well as his apprehension that the final outcome of his trial might, indeed, be martyrdom.

How does Paul respond to this change in circumstance? From entertaining a high degree of confidence that he will be released, to entertaining the very real possibility of execution? The natural emotions one might expect to find would be those of apprehension and fear. But consider Paul’s response.

In verse 23, the Apostle Paul expresses his desire: “I have the desire to depart and be with Christ; for that is very far better” (vs. 23). This is his desire because he has confidence in what awaits him as a Christian, together with the Psalmist he can declare, “In your presence is fullness of joy; at your right hand there are pleasures for evermore” (Psl. 16:11). Paul takes seriously Christ’s prayer for His people: “Father, I desire that those whom you have given me may also be with me where I am, so that they may behold my glory” (Jn. 17:24).

Next consider Paul’s dilemma: Execution means departure out of this world into the immediate presence of Christ, which, for Paul, as one who has been redeemed by the shed blood of Jesus the Messiah, is very far better than life in this world. But what does release from prison mean? Paul explains what his release will mean: “if I continue to live in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me” (vs. 22). Furthermore, his release will enable him to carry on a much-needed ministry to the Philippian church: “for your sake it is more necessary for me to remain in the body” (vs. 24). Paul’s release and continued ministry will contribute to their progress and joy in the faith (vs. 25).

Paul’s dilemma is to choose between what is “very far better” (for him personally) and what is “more necessary” for the sake of Christ’s church. It is a dilemma between his desire for Christ and his devotion to Christ.

Now Paul reveals his decision:” confident of this [i.e. that his release will enable him to continue to carry on a much needed ministry to the church], I know that I will remain and continue to remain with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, 26so that by me, [that is], through my presence with you again, your confidence in Christ Jesus will abound” (vs. 25-26). Being confident that a continued ministry will be necessary and beneficial to the church, the apostle is sure that Christ’s will for him is to accept his release from prison and carry on his ministry, and Paul is willing to accept Christ’s will for his life. The reason for Paul’s decision must be found in his great declaration recorded in verse twenty-one: “for me, to live is Christ;” this means accepting Christ’s will for Christ’s sake. It means putting his devotion to Christ before his desire for Christ’s immediate fellowship in a sinless state.

Let us Live for Christ, by accepting His will for His sake:

... [Christ] died for all, so that they who live should no longer live for themselves, but for him who for their sakes died and rose again. 2 Cor. 5:15

Conclusion←⤒🔗

Paul testifies, “for me, to live is Christ;” his life revolves around Christ and his life is derived from Christ. Paul makes this confession because he has had a personal encounter with Christ, (in Paul’s case, it was on the road to Damascus). In that encounter, he was confronted with the fact that Christ is the LORD: Paul was immediately aware that he was in the presence of the LORD, his first question was, “Who are you, Lord?” And the LORD said, “I am Jesus” (Acts 9:5). In that encounter, Paul met the One who would later identify Himself to the Apostle John as “the Living One” (Rev. 1:18); He is the living God, the LORD of life, the One who is the Source of life, both physical and spiritual.

Paul testifies, “for me...to die is gain;” he is confident that, by virtue of his relationship with Christ, he will be brought safely through the experience of death and will be ushered into the immediate presence of God where he will be received for Christ’s sake. Paul has this sure confidence because he has come to discover by experience that Christ is completely trustworthy. Paul shares this confidence with Timothy: “I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able to keep what I have committed to him until that day” (2 Tim. 1:12). Following upon his initial act of faith in the Lord Jesus, (the hour in which he first believed), Paul has been living in devotion to Christ and has come to know by personal experience that the Lord Jesus Christ is fully faithful to His word and fully able to fulfill all His promises.

The Apostle Paul’s testimony, “for me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain,” is the testimony of everyone who has been born again.

In the final analysis and in terms of eternity, this is the only formula for success: Live for Christ.

Many people living in their twilight years, suddenly realize how empty and pointless their lives have been. They have climbed the ladder of success, only to discover that all along it had been leaning against the wrong wall.¹

In contrast to such a life, the Apostle John exhorts us as Christians, “Do not love the world or the things that are in the world... ¹⁷The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God abides forever” (1 Jn. 2:15a, 17).

Discussion Questions←⤒🔗

1. What does the Apostle Paul want the Philippians to know about the adversity he has experienced because of his gospel ministry? See Phil. 1:12. What is the greatest act of evil that God used for good? See Acts 2:23-24/Col. 2:15. Have you seen God used adversity, or even evil perpetrated against you, for good?

Now, I want you to know, brothers, that the things that have happened to me have [actually] resulted in the advancement of the gospel. Phil. 1:12

Speaking of Christ Jesus, the Apostle Peter declared on the Day of Pentecost, him, being delivered up by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; ²⁴whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that he should be held by it. Acts 2:23-24

Having disarmed the principalities and powers, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by [the cross]. Col. 2:15

2. What has been one result of Paul’s steadfast allegiance to Christ, even in the face of imprisonment? See Phil. 1:14. Have you ever witnessed an act of Christian boldness that has inspired you to take a stand for Christ? Might your faithfulness to Christ in the face of adversity inspire other Christians to do the same? As Christians, what must we remember? See 2 Tim. 1:7,

Furthermore, due to my imprisonment, many of the brothers have become much more confident in the Lord, taking it upon themselves to speak the word without fear. Phil. 1:14

...God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Tim. 1:7

3. Out of what nefarious motives were some men “preaching” the gospel (cf. Phil. 1:15a; also, vs. 17)? Was this true preaching, or was it more likely the reporting to the Roman authorities of what Paul was preaching? What aspect of the gospel might have “stirred up trouble” for Paul before the Roman authorities? Note Rom. 10:9. How does Paul react to such “preaching”? See Phil. 1:18a. Is the Apostle Paul’s react an example of the confidence of which he speaks in Romans 8:28? As a Christian, do you maintain this confidence when you encounter adversity or trial?

¹⁵Some are preaching Christ out of envy and for the sake of strife, but others [are preaching] with good will. ¹⁶The latter are doing so out of love, knowing that I am standing [trial] for the defense of the gospel. ¹⁷But the former are proclaiming Christ out of selfish ambition, not with a pure motive; [they are seeking] to stir up trouble for me in my imprisonment. Phil. 1:15-17

...if you shall confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you shall be saved... Rom. 10:9

This public profession would be in direct conflict with the public profession that was expected of its citizens by the Imperial Roman Government.

What about all this? My only concern is that in every way, whether from false motives or in sincerity, Christ is being preached, and in this I rejoice. Phil. 1:18a

And we know that to them that love God, all things work together for good, to them that are called according to his purpose. Rom. 8:28

4. Negatively stated, what is Paul’s “heart-felt expectation and hope”? See Phil. 1:20a. Does this mean that Paul was confident that he would never be mocked or ostracized by the world; or, is he confident that he will never be disappointed by the Lord, because the Lord had failed him or forsaken him? Note 2 Tim. 4:16-18. Do you trust in God’s sure promise (cf. Heb. 13:5b); have you ever found Him to fail you? What promise does the LORD make to those who trust in Him? See Isa. 49:23b,

This is in keeping with my heart-felt expectation and hope that in no circumstance will I be put to shame... Phil. 1:20a

At my first defense, no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. ¹⁷But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me...¹⁸And the Lord will deliver me out of every evil work and preserve me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen! 2 Tim. 4:16-18

He himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.' Heb. 13:5b

...you will know that I am the LORD; those who put their hope in me shall not be disappointed. Isa. 49:23b

5. Stated in positive terms, what is Paul’s “heart-felt expectation and hope” (cf. Phil. 1:20b)? Is your primary concern the avoidance of the world’s scorn and the preserving of your own image; or is your primary concern the exaltation of the Lord Jesus Christ in your life? What has caused Paul and what now enables him to hold this Christ-centered perspective? See Phil. 1:21. Is this also your perspective? Can one who has been spiritually regenerated by the Holy Spirit not share in this perspective? Note Gal. 2:20. What does Scripture tell us must be and will be true of each one who placed their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ? See 2 Cor. 5:15,

...I have all confidence that as always, so now also, Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death... Phil. 1:20b

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

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ living in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me. Gal. 2:20

...he died for all, so that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for him who died for them and rose again. 2 Cor. 5:15