It Ain’t Over Until

Philippians 1:12-18a

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

15Some 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; 17but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel. 18What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached;

I. The Optimistic Prisoner.

A. Ultimate Cause.

1. Progressing Gospel. (12)

2. Praetorian Guard. (13a)

3. Public Knowledge. (13b)

B. Unwavering Courage. (14)

II. The Opposing Protagonists. (15-17)

A. Out of Envy.

B. Out of Love.

III. The Opulent Provider. (18a)

A. His Sovereignty.

B. His Salvation.