God uses hostility to the gospel to advance the gospel. From a solely human perspective such a tactic doesn't deliver good outcomes. Yet, even while Paul is in prison there is much about his position that serves the gospel. From prison he writes to encourage the persecuted church at Philippi, some of those in Caesars' household have come to faith and still others have been able to speak more courageously. Paul finds much to encourage his readers and is himself encouraged. By describing his own situation, the church is encouraged to take a stand for the gospel. Today, the gospel is the power of God for salvation, even in an increasingly hostile world!
