July 27, 2013 Rivals?

Read Philippians 1:15-20 Rivals? Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. 16 The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former proclaim Christ out of rivalry, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. 18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. PAUL really loves Jesus, doesn’t he? Everything about his life is focused on making Jesus known. He even is glad for “competing Christians” because they make Jesus known, too. Yes, there were men in Rome preaching the gospel for very wrong reasons. They preached to make a reputation for themselves. They taught of Jesus while unlovingly speaking against Paul. These men saw Paul’s imprisonment as an opportunity to be viewed as better than Paul. Paul, though, sees the good in their preaching. He sees Jesus’ name being proclaimed, and that is all that matters. Even as he is in prison, Paul does not let his circumstances nor do such people as “competing Christians” rob him of his joy. What’s true for you? Do you find it hard to accept the circumstances in life? Do you have people around you who are unpleasant, who compete against you? Perhaps it would be good to stop and consider, “Is this where God wants me now?” As he used Paul’s imprisonment to advance the gospel, God will use your challenges to tell of Jesus as you are faithful to your Lord. See your life in Jesus’ hands, and you will be his hands to “preach” of Jesus’ love. A Moment’s Thought: God moves you to where he needs you to speak for him.