https://www.rightnowmedia.org/Content/Series/368582
What stuck out to me was verse 14, "because of my chains most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear." The commentary in my Bible on this verse says, “when we speak fearlessly for Christ or live faithfully for him during difficult situations, we encourage others to do the same. Being encouraged by the way you that you live.”
Paul's message in
Philippians was for us to share the gospel with boldness and he
reminded us that God can use a terrible circumstance to lead to
something good and transformative. In Paul's case, he found himself
in prison, but that lead to gospel expansion! In the video clip, Jo
Saxton reminds us that circumstances have a bigger picture. Focus
only on Jesus. Jesus was Paul's entire focus. Jo also said,
“What can we take away from this? Our lives serve a purpose greater
than ourselves. Encourage others. Pick up your cross daily. Paul is
a living reminder of what this looks like.”
- What's been the result of Paul's imprisonment? Who has been influenced by his faithfulness to God?
- Why do you think Paul is able to keep this perspective? What about his outlook on his life and death resonates with you?
