Paul’s Broad Perspective

PAUL was deeply committed to the truth and integrity of the gospel. But in Philippians 1:12-18 he generously credits others who were doing ministry, even though they had impure motives.

This sets an important example for Christians today who feel strong loyalty to their particular tradition or institution. Like Paul, we need to accept and celebrate the fact that other believers with different perspectives and approaches may be helping people and accomplishing tasks that we never could.

He rejoices because, despite physical persecution and social ostracism, the Word of God is being proclaimed with much success. Furthermore, although he desires to be in heaven with Jesus, he realizes that God is keeping him on earth in order to help the Philippians to continue their successful proclamation of that same Word.

Courtesy of Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Commentary
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version®, NKJV © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.
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