Philippians 1:19-26

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Paul Speaks of His Possible Release

When Paul says, “I know that this will turn out for my salvation,” does this mean that he was not saved?
What would bring about Paul’s deliverance?
What did Paul mean when he prayed, “That in nothing I shall be ashamed”?
What was Paul’s dilemma concerning life or death?
How was Paul’s life a lens?

No, rather he was speaking about his possible deliverance from some hardship, possibly being released from prison.
The prayers of the Philippians, the operation of the Holy Spirit, and the combination of circumstances.
Paul did not want to deny Christ, even if he were to be tortured for this faith. He prayed that he would be delivered from bringing any dishonor to the name of Christ.
See Philippians 1:20-26. Dying would mean being with Christ, a great desire for Paul; but if living would benefit the Philippians, then he would desire that.
A lens focuses and magnifies. Paul wanted his life to be a lens for Christ – so people would see Christ, not Paul. His desire was that Christ be magnified, whether by his life or in his death.

Do you pray for God’s deliverance from certain hardships? How does God answer you? Do you pray for deliverance from dishonoring the name of Christ?
Give yourself the spirituality test. What is your bottom line for living? Is it happiness, home, pleasure, money, family, success, recreation, travel, being pain-free? Or is it to please Christ above all else?

Paul’s life was a lens, magnifying Christ. Determine to make your life a lens, magnifying Christ.

“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. For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:20-21