The Gospel Advances
12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually advanced the gospel, 13 so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard, and to everyone else, that my imprisonment is because I am in Christ. 14 Most of the brothers have gained confidence in the Lord from my imprisonment and dare even more to speak the word fearlessly. (Philippians 1:12-14)
From verses 12 to 30, Paul shares that there can be joy found in trials and tribulations. Specifically, from verses 12 to 18, we will see Paul show how the gospel message can be shared in these difficult times. Starting with verse 12, Paul tells the believers that “what has happened to me has actually advanced the gospel.” Remember that Paul is in prison in Rome at the time of writing this letter. Yet, even though Paul is in chains, the gospel is not hindered at all, and is actually advancing.
Verse 13, we see that the gospel message has spread among the “whole imperial guard and to everyone else.” What was Paul’s crime to land him in prison? “My imprisonment is because I am in Christ.” All these people understood that Paul was falsely in prison.
Finally, in verse 14, Paul is encouraged that due to his imprisonment, other believers are stepping out in boldness and are sharing the gospel: “Most of the brothers have gained confidence in the Lord from my imprisonment and dare even more to speak the word fearlessly.” Instead of fearing that they would be put into prison like Paul, the believers were emboldened by his example to share the word and proclaim the truth. Even though the government officials tried to hinder the gospel message; instead, the gospel “advanced,” going further among the people, including the very guards employed by the prison.
In the same manner, if you are a believer, may we be encouraged by Paul and the fellow believers to boldly share the gospel, that even if there may be persecution against you, know that the work you are doing is not in vain, for the Lord will advance His kingdom, and the proclamation of the good news cannot be stopped.
Blessings,
Isaac De Guzman
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