Opposition

Read: Philippians 1:12-18
Listen: Philippians 1

Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. Philippians 1:12-13

Paul is under house arrest in Rome when he writes to the Philippians. He was unjustly imprisoned for preaching the gospel and spends two years in a rented house guarded by a Roman soldier. Being imprisoned doesn’t quiet him. It appears Paul shares the gospel with whoever will listen—imperial guards and those who visit him (Acts 28:3-32). He writes, “And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear” (Philippians 1:14). Paul’s example encourages fellow Christians in Rome to share their beliefs in the center of the Roman empire.

Political, cultural and physical opposition to the gospel doesn’t necessarily hinder its progress. Often, the opposite happens, as exemplified by Paul’s imprisonment. He shows Jesus followers in Rome that even though they are afraid, good things will come from sharing the gospel. We often become afraid of sharing our faith or living out our Christian beliefs when they are counter-cultural. It’s just easier to go along with the norm.  But we can take our fears to God, like Paul, and trust him to do good things.

TODAY: Ask God to remind you of his power and faithfulness as you listen to the Ada Bible Worship Team sing “The Solid Rock.” Focus on the lyrics, “On Christ the solid rock I stand,” and “I wholly lean on Jesus’ name.”

JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read Jeremiah 46-49. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Consider the plea for a healing balm and how Jesus is the one who heals our sin.