6-22-10

PHILIPPIANS 1:21-30

“For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” One of the most popular verses of Paul, often quoted, and what did Paul really mean when he wrote this? When we read on, we see that Paul really struggles with wanting to die and be with Christ, and also knowing that he wants to be with and among the saints, as he feels he has so much work left to do. He knows Christ is returning, and yet he is beginning to realize that it may not be during his lifetime. He settles the matter by realizing that it is better for the others for him to remain alive on earth, and do as much as he can here and now.

If he stays here, he must produce fruitful labor for the Lord.
If he goes there (heaven) he gets to be with Christ.

Paul clearly wants to be able to see the people of Philippi again, and even if he cannot make it there (some feel that Paul was nearing execution when this was written), he pleas with them to conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the gospel. Pretty broad statement, if you ask me, and Paul never asked anything of anyone that he would not himself do. Essentially, he wants and expects them to stand firm in one spirit, united by Christ, striving for faith.

We see that opponents are destroyed by the gospel if they do not accept it; this is obviously the very same gospel which saves us, with God very much in control of both aspects.

With true belief in Christ can also come suffering for Him. Paul shared with the other believers the conflict that resulted because of his testimony. He uses his current situation as an encouragement to the church.

SO WHAT…?

So, a bit more on this “To live is Christ…” statement. One word jumps out at me – “IS”.

So for the Christian to live IS Christ. Our lives are to be about Christ, nothing more, nothing less, nothing else, to partially quote a brother. If I am alive, and claim to be a Christian, then what else should my life be about?

So for the Christian, to die IS gain. Again, “is” is used in present tense, meaning, once I die, I gain, I HAVE that inheritance reserved for me. Either way, Christ IS the focus.

So I must conduct myself in a manner worthy of the gospel, regardless of what others might be doing. This dark world really needs to see that the gospel is worth believing.