Studies in Philippians (6) To Live or Die for Christ Philippians 1:19-26

Paul’s Confidence I know this will turn out for my deliverance (salvation – KJV) Through your prayers – 2 Corinthians 1:11, Romans 15:30, Philemon 22, etc. And through the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ – cf. Matthew 10:17-20

Paul’s Confidence According to the earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed – with his standing before God and his defense of the gospel - Romans 1:16

Paul’s Confidence But with boldness – Paul continually sees his need to be bold Ephesians 3:12, Hebrews 4:16 As always, so now also Christ will be magnified (to make larger, be held in greater esteem) in my body – Paul’s goal no matter what happens Whether by life or by death

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) Which to choose Looking forward, Paul sees two directions (options) – to live or die I am hard-pressed between the two (23) Both have their strengths

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) Which to choose What is our attitude toward what will happen? Paul seeks to encourage the Philippians to have a godly attitude regardless of their circumstances – hopeful and joyful – Philippians 4:4, 11, etc.

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) Which to choose How many of us struggle with attitudes that rob us of our joy and fulfillment in this life? Cf. Matthew 6:24-34

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) Which to choose Throughout life we are constantly presented with choices Often, it is good vs bad – we must ALWAYS choose the good At times it might be two choices both (and possibly equally) good – what then? With maturity and wisdom we determine what is best

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) Which to choose Paul was now facing this “good vs good” dilemma (though in reality it was God’s decision) Do we live our lives so that such choices are a dilemma to us?

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) Which to choose What I choose I cannot tell (22) It is in God’s hands cf. Luke 23:46 Do we have the disposition to simply put our trust in Him regardless of what happens? Will we accept whatever happens and make the best of it?

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) For to me, to live is Christ (21) As a Christian we belong to Him. Galatians 2:20 (Romans 6:6) Colossians 3:3 – your life is hidden with Christ in God 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit Luke 9:23 – we must deny ourselves

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) For to me, to live is Christ If I live on in the flesh (22) Paul is making plans, regardless of what happens There is wisdom in preparation This will mean fruit for my labors – Paul’s life has been productive. But, God willing, he is not done!

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) For to me, to live is Christ Nevertheless, to remain in the flesh is more needful for you (24) Not Paul’s preference, but it is better for them Do we think about others first in our decisions? Philippians 2:3-4

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) For to me, to live is Christ Continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith (25) These brethren are hurting (paying a price). Paul challenges them to remain joyful and hopeful and not let their troubles stop them. This is about them, not him! He is willing to “spend and be spent” 2 Corinthians 12:15

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) For to me, to live is Christ That your rejoicing for me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ at my coming to you (26) Should Paul be released and given opportunity, he hoped to come to them.

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) For to me, to die is gain Having a desire to depart and be with the Lord (23) This is what he wants – to be in the presence of God, well pleasing to Him (Matthew 25:21, 1 Thessalonians 4:17) Is that not the ultimate motive of every true believer? 2 Corinthians 5:6-8

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) For to me, to die is gain Which is far better (23) Why is death better? Because if we are prepared, a reward awaits us - 2 Timothy 4:7-8, Revelation 14:13 No more troubles, tears, tribulations – Revelation 21:4

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) For to me, to die is gain That Christ may be magnified in my body (20) As a Christian, can you think of a better way to die, than for Him? Your courage and faithfulness encourage others You declare the importance of Jesus and what He did. That He is real! You please Him – 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) For to me, to die is gain To die here can mean: To die for His cause – Revelation 2:10, 12:11 To end your life still faithful to Him – Revelation 14:13

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) Is this our dilemma? Is there a struggle within us between living on and dying? Do we desire to live on? It is not wrong to desire this – Paul appealed to Caesar (Acts 25:11), Jesus often preserved His life until the time (Luke 4:30, John 8:59)

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) Is this our dilemma? WHY do we desire to live on? Is living on about magnifying Christ in our lives? How much are we willing to sacrifice and suffer for His cause? Will living a little longer mean more spiritual fruit? We CANNOT retire while in this life?

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) Is this our dilemma? Do we desire to die and be with Christ? A soul stirring question Why or why not? Are we ready to die and stand judged? Why are we avoiding it?

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) Is this our dilemma? To die and be with Christ? What steps are we taking to avoid it? Do we love this world too much? Are we unprepared? Can you think of a better way to leave this life than for His cause?

Paul’s Dilemma (1:21-26) Is this our dilemma? To die and be with Christ? It is unlikely we will be martyred now (but the future is uncertain) But are we letting up? Will we determine that we are going to “wear out” rather than “rust out”?

Is Christ being magnified in our lives?