JOY IN CHRIST-CENTERED GROWTH: Philippians 1:18b-26

We have before us a tremendous passage about growth. One of the greatest ministers of God in human history, the apostle Paul, reveals his focus on Christ-centered growth.

As believers, we are often pictured as plants/trees that bear fruit (think of John chapter 15). This growth is a growth in Christlikeness, a point which we briefly discussed in 1:6.

Our focus for this book, our theme, if you will, is joy. This is not simply a feeling of happiness. It is a state of being, a mental state that, though circumstances may not be the best, we are still joyful.

How can this be, we may ask? How can one find joy, as Paul did, while imprisoned? How can one experience joy in the midst of chronic pain? How can we have joy when we lose a loved one?

Many people would say that we cannot. It is not possible! But this ignores the sacred truths of Scripture. Believers, we can have joy in prison, in chronic pain, and even in the loss of a loved one.

Paul, the apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, in prison, writes this letter to encourage the believers at Philippi. Joy is the theme, but it is presented in a variety of ways and circumstances.

Paul is continuing his discussion of his imprisonment and the gospel work. Last week we saw Joy in Gospel-Centered Focus. That is, Paul lived his life in light of the Gospel, and as such experienced joy that transcended his circumstances. But Paul’s life also focused on growth, and not just any growth, he focused on Christ-Centered Growth.

We all want to progress in life. We want to continue to learn, to improve our life and work skills. We want our retirements to grow. We want to be healthier. We want to be closer. All of this centers around growth.

The believer is also interested in growth. But the believer’s growth, though certainly not less than those things, is surely much more. Our growth is Christ-centered. That is, it centers on Christ. If we are to have joy, true, God-glorifying and soul-edifying joy, we must engage in Christ-Centered Growth.

Our passage this morning presents us with several important aspects about Christ-centered growth. And if you and I are to experience joy, we must engage in Christ-Centered Growth.

I. Christ-centered Growth Exceeds Present Circumstances- 1:18b-20

This point, though phrased differently, has been repeated in our present chapter. In chapter 1 verses 3-6, Paul was concentrated on the Philippians growth and the end goal that is sure because of Christ.

In verses 12-18 Paul presents the advancement of the gospel (or, gospel growth), and though some preached Christ out of envy, Paul was so focused on the Gospel he has joy even though he was imprisoned.

As we grow in Christ, our joy exceeds (or, transcends) our present circumstances. Notice Paul’s words. They include prayer, God’s provision, and assurance. These are key concepts in our growth, so let’s look at each one briefly.

A. Christ-Centered Growth Engages in Prayer

Paul expresses joy “I will rejoice” because of two things: prayer and provision.

B. Christ-Centered Growth Involves the Provision of God

C. Christ-Centered Growth Believes God’s Word

II. Christ-centered Growth Is Goal-Oriented- 1:21-24

III. Christ-centered Growth Builds Others- 1:25-26