LOOKING TO FURTHER THE GOSPEL

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READ Philippians 1:12-19

Paul the Apostle spoke clearly about the opposition he faced as he sought to further the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Some preached Christ “of envy and strife” (vs. 15) while some preached Christ “of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds” (vs. 16).  Paul was jailed in Rome and had enemies who sought to add to his difficulties.  They hoped to cause greater political backlash than what already existed.

How did this resistance impact Paul?  He stated, “… in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. 21For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (vs. 20(b)-21).

May we look forward to furthering the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  And never allow yourself to be ashamed of the Gospel for “…it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth…” (Romans 1:16).

God expects us to become mature witnesses for Him.  We should:

1.  Share the gospel, regardless of the circumstances.

2.  Hold no personal desire for credit or glory regarding the fruit from our witness.

3.  Be assured of a joyful result for others, that of coming to Christ for salvation.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  Are you comfortable in sharing your faith and the Gospel to others? Explain.

2.  What kind of practical steps might you take to improve your ability to witness for Christ?

3.  What kind of opposition in sharing the Gospel might one face in our current society? Are you willing to face this opposition?  Why or why not?

4. Has your faithfulness in sharing the gospel resulted in the salvation of others?