Philippians 1:25-28
- By: ckroboth
- On: 03/08/2009 20:17:41
- In: Philippians
How do we conduct our self in regards to the Gospel of Christ? Do we boast that people find comfort because of us, or because of the message of the Gospel. Do we protect the integrity of the Gospel or do we degrade the sacrifice with sin and distorting the truth of Christ.
25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.
Brian had a great break down in the forums of how the original Greek would have been translated:
This verse begins with the Greek word hina, which when combined with a verb stated in the subjunctive mood ("may abound") indicates the writer is introducing a statement of purpose or explaining a reason.
I think it is best translated, "In order that your proud confidence may abound in Christ Jesus in me."
While the New American Standard places the words "in me" before "in Christ Jesus," the Greek New Testament has "in Christ Jesus" first. It's important that the Greek word order be preserved so it doesn't sound like Paul said, "That your proud confidence in me may abound"--something Paul never would have written.
His point was not that the Philippians' confidence would overflow because of him, but because of Christ's working in him.
If I read it this way, then yes I can say that about myself. I am not perfect and will not act in this manner 24/7, but I do feel like when I gather with other believers or even when I don’t, I feel i act in good character no matter where I am. I now experience Christ in a whole new way than just talking about sports and the current news item of the day when I am with others. I try to show Christ to others through me, just as Paul is describing here. Not perfect, but growing everyday.
27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.
"conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ."
The Good news of the Gospel is that we are saved by Grace because of Christ's death and resurrection. I always think to myself when I feel like I am going down a slippery slope, is what I am going to do honor the sacrifice of Christ. We owe it to Christ to live a life of free from sin. We owe it to Christ not to distort his truth in anyway.
"I will know that you stand firm in one spirit"
If we are filled with the Spirit of God our actions and how we carry our selves is how others recognize that we honor the sacrifice of Christ.
"without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God."
I think this says it all on its own....
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