Philippians 1:21-30 – a win-win situation
2008 September 16
This past Sunday was the last week in Romans according to the lectionary, and our teaching team at NIC has decided to follow the epistle readings through Philippians over the next four weeks. Paul wrote this letter from prison – probably Ceaserea – to a predominantly Gentile church that he founded – the first church he planted on mainland Europe. The context of suffering needs to be the lens through which we read this letter. Remember where he’s sitting when he writes this and that he’s fully aware that he may not come out alive. It makes his attitude and his words all that more powerful.
Here are some of the questions I’m trying to answer to prepare the message for this Sunday:
- Verse 21 is central to understanding Paul. What does he mean that his life is Christ? What does he gain by dying? Why is he willing to remain?
- Notice how ‘others’ focused he is in the midst of severe suffering. Reminds me of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples before his crucifixion. Even in the face of death these men were not thinking of themselves. How was that possible?
- What was Paul’s labor or work (verse 22)? Should the average Christian also be engaged in spiritual work? What does this look like?
- Why is unity such an important reflection of the gospel (verse 27)?
- In spite of his situation and his enemies (many who were coming from within the church itself), how could Paul be so relaxed and encourage others to relax (verse 28)?
- Why does Paul encourage them to take the dangerous and difficult path instead of the safe one (verses 29-30)?
Check the comments for ongoing developments. 
Perhaps another key to understanding Paul is in Philippians 4:11-13. He seems to be void of the distactions that so often cause us grief (attachments to possessions, positions, etc). He seemed to be be able to focus exclusively on what was best for the advancement of the Kingdom. From that vantage point, he could others to endure suffering as well.
Thanks for pointing us there, Tom. His attachment was to Christ, not the things of the world. I think we’d all like to get to that point, but it’s tough. We don’t want to be controlled by the ups and downs of the stock market (or support raising or church offerings!), but we are.
In the first part of Philippians 1 Paul sees Christ hidden yet present in all of his circumstances (vs. 12, 19). It takes faith to recognize Christ as the hidden player behind all of life’s blessings and trials. He’s kind of like an optical illusion that you don’t see at first, but after a while (maybe with the help of someone else) you recognize something that you didn’t see previously.
In faith Paul could see his future glory, his resurrected body, his eternity with Christ, and the fruitfulness of sacrifice. He knew what was coming, so he could endure the present.
With this kind of faith Paul could say to the Philippians (and us), ‘My God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.’ (4:19)
Preparing the message this week is a reminder why I love teaching God’s word.
Here’s how it’s shaping up so far:
Paul’s starting point for navigating life is the belief that to live is Christ. Christ is the center. If living is Christ, then dying is even better because it’s more of Christ; or at least Christ more clearly – face to face.
With Christ at the center Paul is free to live for others (their joy and progress in the faith which is measured by conduct, unity, and striving for the gospel).
With Christ at the center he is free from anxiety caused by opposition, suffering for the gospel, and loss.
Is it really practical to say, ‘To live is Christ’? Does Christ really provide stability in an unstable world? By faith we say, ‘Yes!’
‘My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches by Christ Jesus’ – Philippians 4:19
If you’re also studying this passage this week, what are you coming up with? Contributions or corrections to what I’ve added here?
Our small group here in California is working it’s way though Philippians. We spent some time wrestling with 1:21 this evening. I’m intrigued by your questions…is the sermon available? I’d love to read/hear it!@
Thanks,
Rod
Hi Rod,
The sermon isn’t online, but I can send you the notes if you’d like. Drop me an email at cyprusdugan@yahoo.com.
Blessings as you make your way through Philippians!
Rick
Thank you for sharing some inspiring notes on Philipians 1:21. I’ve got to keep reminding myself of the first part every day. To live is Christ, to live is Christ… He is all and in all, without Him, our faith is nothing. I am encouraged by the fact that He is so interested in sharing this journey with us.