Philippians 1:12-30 Living a life focused on the Gospel

Introduction:

How do we respond when things don't go the way we planned, especially in our Christian walk? Do we become discouraged and lose hope, or do we trust that God is still at work, even in the midst of difficult circumstances? In Philippians 1:12-30, we see the apostle Paul's response to his own challenging circumstances, and how he was able to remain focused on the gospel.

I. The Gospel Advances Even in Difficult Circumstances (Philippians 1:12-14)

Philippians 1:12–14 NKJV

12 But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, 13 so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; 14 and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

A. Paul's imprisonment and its impact on the gospel (v.12-13)

I love that word “actually” (GK: “mallon”)

its used to convey a sense of surprise and paradox

You would think that Paul being in prison would contain the gospel

Maybe that was the intention of the enemy

Keep Paul hidden from the public to contain the gospel

Weeeelllllllll........

Actually

Instead..... the gospel is being furthered.

and not just with the whole palace guards…

at this point it is like the gospel is a wild fire all over the world.

how? well look at the believers in verse 14

B. The response of other believers (v.14)

they saw Paul’s persecution not as a i am afraid of it happening to us

but like well if Paul isnt backing down… neither will we!

May that be with us!

unashamed… unafraid to preach the gospel!

Romans 1:16 NKJV

16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.

This world needs the gospel!

so

C. The gospel is continuing to progress despite opposition

The gospel is never going away!

The question is what are you doing with it.

“hide it under a bushell no!… Im going to let it shine”

II. The Gospel is Proclaimed with Various Motivations (Philippians 1:15-18)

Philippians 1:15–18 NKJV

15 Some indeed preach Christ even from envy and strife, and some also from goodwill: 16 The former preach Christ from selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my chains; 17 but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel. 18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice.

A. Some preach the gospel with selfish motives

B. Paul's response to those who preach Christ out of envy and rivalry

C. The importance of preaching Christ regardless of motivation

III. The Gospel Brings Joy and Confidence (Philippians 1:19-26)

Philippians 1:19–26 NKJV

19 For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 20 according to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. 23 For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. 24 Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. 25 And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith, 26 that your rejoicing for me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ by my coming to you again.

A. Paul's confidence in God's provision and deliverance

B. The role of prayer in Paul's life and ministry

C. The joy that comes from living for Christ and sharing the gospel

IV. The Gospel Calls for Sacrifice and Unity (Philippians 1:27-30)

Philippians 1:27–30 NKJV

27 Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, 28 and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that from God. 29 For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, 30 having the same conflict which you saw in me and now hear is in me.

A. The importance of living in a manner worthy of the gospel

B. The need for unity and sacrificial love in the church

C. The privilege and responsibility of suffering for the sake of Christ

Conclusion:

As we face our own challenges and difficulties, may we be encouraged by Paul's example to remain focused on the gospel, proclaiming Christ even in the midst of opposition and uncertainty. May we be filled with joy and confidence in God's provision, and may we be willing to sacrifice and unite for the sake of Christ and his kingdom.