15It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. (NIV)
Some were preaching Christ and proclaiming Him in part to encourage Paul in his imprisonment. Others did it from selfish ambition, adding to their sin by thinking that they could harass Paul in the process.
Our proclamation of the gospel affects other believers, it edifies and strengthens. The people wanting to encourage knew Paul was excited that his imprisonment was resulting in preaching and people being converted. This was worth it to Paul, and quite rewarding - even as he suffered.
Prayer
Lord, suffering can be grand, so your word says. By your grace, please guide me to suffer well and by it have occasion to proclaim the gospel, and grant me glad willingness to die for your sake - and live and love for your sake. Amen.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Romans 4:19-20 Unwaivering Faith
“He considered his own body to be already dead (since he was a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah’s womb, without weakening in the faith. He did not waiver in unbelief at God’s promise, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God.”
Faith is not the fruit of ignorance, but a consideration of the reality of things, and an attendant confidence that God will accomplish what He has purposed to in that reality. Abraham thought pretty hard of his old, decaying Adamic shell, and thereby greater contemplated the wonder of God to perform a work which defied natural biology, in both he and Sarah (who would laugh at the thought of it then rightly be ashamed).
How wonderful to think on the wonder of God—to consider His promises; while knowing that what He says He will do makes no sense to the natural, fleshly man that is at enmity with God. And, oh behold the fruit of the nations!
Prayer
Lord, is it so indeed that you can form me into the likeness of your only begotten? Will you surely give life to this mortal body; yea, and conquering life? Praise to you—you are doing that very thing! And I have contemplated my deadness and grab hold of the life you promise. Thank you. Amen
Faith is not the fruit of ignorance, but a consideration of the reality of things, and an attendant confidence that God will accomplish what He has purposed to in that reality. Abraham thought pretty hard of his old, decaying Adamic shell, and thereby greater contemplated the wonder of God to perform a work which defied natural biology, in both he and Sarah (who would laugh at the thought of it then rightly be ashamed).
How wonderful to think on the wonder of God—to consider His promises; while knowing that what He says He will do makes no sense to the natural, fleshly man that is at enmity with God. And, oh behold the fruit of the nations!
Prayer
Lord, is it so indeed that you can form me into the likeness of your only begotten? Will you surely give life to this mortal body; yea, and conquering life? Praise to you—you are doing that very thing! And I have contemplated my deadness and grab hold of the life you promise. Thank you. Amen
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