Philippians 1:12-18a
12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters,
that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And 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.
15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill.16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
Reflection
This section of scripture defines the occasion for Paul writing the letter. The occasion is that Paul is in prison and wants the people in Philippi to know two things. First, the state of the gospel and secondly what is his current state in prison. This first section fits into the category of the state of the gospel. He celebrates that other ministers of the gospel are taking his place you even ones who may be doing it for the wrong reason. Do have trouble being like Paul? Could you celebrate even in your own loss because the cause of Christ is advancing? What makes it so hard to give up our wants and needs to share the good news with the world?
