Jesus was preached and paul rejoiced

JESUS WAS PREACHED AND PAUL REJOICED
EDITED BY GLENN PEASE
Philippians1:18 18But what does it matter? The
importantthing is that in every way, whether from
false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because
of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,
BIBLEHUB RESOURCES
Christ PreachedIn SectarianJealousy
Philippians 1:18
W.F. Adeney
It is scarcelypossible to conceive of a more magnificent breadth of charity, a
more heroic self-abnegation, ora more ardent devotion to Christ than St. Paul
here manifests. His preaching at Rome appears to have excited opposition in
the Judaizing sectionof the Church there. In jealousyof the influence gained
by the greatapostle, this party was roused to more earnestmissionary
enterprise on their own account. Their motive was miserably narrow and
ungenerous. But they little understood the spirit of the man whom they
thought to annoy. The last thing that mean and selfishmen can comprehend is
the largerheart of a better nature. St. Paul completely triumphed over this
miserable attempt at raising up afflictions for him in his bonds. Instead of
being irritated at the injury done to himself, he utterly forgot that injury in

his joy that a flesh impetus was given to the preaching of Christ. What a noble
example for all Christians!
I. THE PREACHING OF CHRIST IS THE MOST IMPORTANT WORK
OF the CHURCH. There were truths dear to the heart of St. Paul which the
Judaizing party denied, and it was part of the life-work of the apostle to
vindicate these truths. But he clearlysaw that they were subsidiary to the
great, common Christian gospel. Therefore he would rather see the gospel
preachedby men who were at the same time resisting those truths, than that
the secondarytruths should triumph but missionary work be less zealously
promoted. We are all in danger of losing theologicalperspective. We are
inclined to magnify our own specialviews to the neglectof the truth that is
common to all Christendom. To make Christ known - not to preach this or
that doctrine about Christ, but to reveal Christ himself in his beautiful life,
death, and resurrection- this is to preach the gospel, and all else is of minor
importance.
II. CHRIST MAY BE PREACHED IN A GREAT VARIETY OF WAYS. The
more illiberal Christians setforth the gospelin a very different way from St.
Paul's method. Yet he had insight to see that the essentialtruth was
proclaimed by them.
1. Becausemen do not pronounce our "shibboleth," let us not refuse to
recognize that they preach our Christ, the one Christ.
2. Moreover, note that, as a rule, the grounds on which Christians agree are
far more important than those on which they differ.
3. Observe also that, though the spirit and motive of the preacherare
important, the truth of the gospelis of more importance; so that, though this

be proclaimed with an unworthy motive (as here in very spite to St. Paul), yet,
being proclaimed, it may reachthe hearts of men and do its own work.
III. DIVISIONS AMONG CHRISTIANS MAY LEAD TO ThE MORE
ZEALOUS PREACHING OF CHRIST. We naturally deplore these divisions.
They are very injurious to Christian charity. They generate sectarian
bitterness of spirit and narrowness ofthought. They lead to much waste of
effort in controversy and to a scandalin the eyes of the world. On the other
hand, they undoubtedly excite greaterzeal in propagating the gospel. The
sects provoke one another to goodworks. The motive may not be the highest;
still, the result is that the gospelis preached more energeticallyand with more
variety, so as to reachdifferent classesofmind. And often the emulation is not
unworthy. Eachparty is honestly desirous not to be found wanting, and is
stimulated by the example of the rest. Competition, which greatly encourages
efficiencyin study and in business, is not without its influence in religion.
Competitive Christianity may be, indeed, a low form of religion, but it is much
better than lifeless Christianity.
IV. THE TRUE SERVANT OF CHRIST WILL VALUE THE PREACHING
OF CHRIST MORE THAN THE EXTENSION OF HIS OWN VIEWS AND
INFLUENCE. It is exceedinglydifficult really to rejoice at efforts which
weakenour ownparticular cause while they promote the greatcause of
Christ. But this is because we think more of ourselves than of Christ. Greater
devotion to Christ will issue in largercharity to rivals and enemies. When we
can say, "To me to live is Christ," we shall be able to experience the grand
feeling of St. Paul in rising above the provocationof jealous oppositionto
himself with the joy of witnessing a more earnestpreaching of Christ. -
W.F.A.

Biblical Illustrator
Some indeed preachChrist even of envy and strife
Philippians 1:15
Observe
J. Lyth, D. D.
I.A GOOD ACT MAY BE PROMPTED BYA BAD MOTIVE.
II.THE GOOD REMAINS THOUGH THE OBJECTFAILS.
(J. Lyth, D. D.)
Motives
J. Lyth, D. D., J. Parker, D. D.
I.VARY WIDELY.
II.DO NOT AFFECT THE NATURE BUT THE MORAL QUALITY OF AN
ACTION.

III.DETERMINE NOT THE RESULT BUT THE REWARD.
(J. Lyth, D. D.)The text suggests —
I. DIVERSE DEVELOPEMENTOF HUMAN DISPOSITION.
II. THE POSSIBILITYOF DOING A GOOD DEED THROUGHA BAD
MOTIVE.
III. THE IMPOSSIBILITYOF ENTIRELYCONCEALING MOTIVES.
IV. THE ACTION OF SELF-SEEKERSTURNED INTO THE GOOD
MAN'S SOURCE OF JOY.
V. MAN IS NEVER SO DIABOLIZED AS WHEN MAKING A GOOD
CAUSE THE MEANS OF GRIEVING AND TORMENTING THE
CHURCH.
VI. THE MERE FACT THAT A MAN PREACHES CHRIST IS NOT A
PROOF OF HIS PERSONALSALVATION: and if this can be affirmed of
preaching, how much more may it be affirmed of learning.
(J. Parker, D. D.)

Two voices on the same subject
J. Parker, D. D.
I.The voice of SELFISHNESS.
II.The voice of LOVE.
(J. Parker, D. D.)
The real and counterfeit in the Christian ministry
G. G. Ballard.
I. WHERE THEY CORRESPOND.
1. Both adopt the Christian name.
2. Both utter the same shibboleth.
3. Both are active in preaching Christ.
II. WHERE THEY DIFFER.
1. In heart. "Contention" moves the one;"love" reigns in the other.
2. In spirit. "Envy and strife" move the one; "goodwill" actuates the other.

3. In source of strength. Love of party animates the one; confidence in the
Lord emboldens the other.
4. In aim. That of the one is to advance, it may be, a lifeless Church; that of
the other to propel the gospelof Christ.
5. The depth and accuracyofconviction. The one "supposing to rid," etc. (ver.
16); the other "knowing that," etc. (ver. 17).
(G. G. Ballard.)
A spurious ministry
G. G. Ballard.
I. THE ELEMENTSFORMATIVE OF IT.
1. An imperfect apprehensionof Christ's mission.
2. A total absence ofChrist's Spirit.
3. Thought and sympathy, narrowedby early prejudice and preconceived
ideas.
4. Christ made subservient to the doctrines, ritual, and history of a system.
II. THE RESULTS INSEPARABLE FROM IT.

1. The cross degradedinto a rallying point for party strife.
2. The basestspirit indulged under the pretence of fulfilling a sacredoffice.
(1)"Envy" — displeasure at another's good.
(2)"Strife" — selfish rivalry which seeksto gain the goodbelonging to
another. Christ preachedmerely to advance a party.
4. Zeal for propagating a creed, greaterthan to save a lost world.
III. THE GERM OF IT.
1. May exist in those who zealouslypreach Christ.
2. Consists in a moral contradiction betweenthe heart of the preacher and the
theme of his discourse — contentiousnessand Christ.
3. Produces impurity of motive in Christian work — "not sincerely."
4. Biasesthe judgment to expect results which are never realized —
"supposing."

5. Inspires aims which are unchristian — "to add affliction."
(G. G. Ballard.)
The preaching of Christ
J. Lyth, D. D., W. B. Collyer, D. D.
I. THE THEME. His person and work — His grace and power — His gifts
and promises — His example and requirements.
II. THE MOTIVE. Sometimes impure; as sectarian, mercenary, ambitious —
sometimes sincere;from love to God and man.
III. THE RESULT. Some goodevery way — Christ is exalted— the faithful
rejoice,
(J. Lyth, D. D.)
I. THE PREACHING OF CHRIST. No preaching can bear this designation
which does not constitute Him the grand object of it. From the first the holy
men who spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit pointed to Him. All the
Scriptures lead, remotely, perhaps, but certainly, to the Cross of Christ. He is
to be preachedas the only objectof faith, and the sole source of salvation.
Opposition must not hinder, nor heresydivert this.
II. THE SCALE ON WHICH CHRIST IS TO BE PREACHED.

1. To all peoples — Philippians and Romans, Europeans and Africans.
2. By men of all views and denominations, Jewishand Gentile Christians;
Roman Catholics and Protestants;Anglicans and Dissenters, etc.
III. THE SPIRIT IN WHICH THIS SHOULD BE RECEIVED. There are two
classesinterested.
1. Ministers should rejoice whenthey see the gospelspreading on all sides and
among all denominations. Let it not be said of them, "Ye know not what spirit
ye are off." No jealous or envious feeling at others'successesshouldbe
cherishedby them.
2. Congregations while loyal to their own Church should put a generous
constructionon the work of others.
IV. THE GLORIOUS RESULTS ARISING OUT OF THIS.
1. In time.
2. In eternity.
(W. B. Collyer, D. D.)
Toleration

H. W. Beecher.
I. We see here the TRUE GROUND OF CHRISTIAN TOLERATION.
1. Negatively.(1)Tolerationis not an enforcedforbearance with men who
teacherror. Some keeptheir hands off errorists because they cannot touch
them; like boys who will not pluck ripe fruit because there is a high wallin the
way.(2)Nor is it a recognitionof the right of men to freedom of thought and
experience, which is only part of it.(3) Still less is it indifference to error.
There are men who do not care whether you teach Godor Jupiter, heathen
mythology or Christian theology.
2. Positively. It is a generous confidence in the vitality of truth and its ultimate
victory, born of hope, nursed by courage, adoptedby love.
II. IF PAUL'S SPIRIT BE RIGHT THEN WE NEED TO AMEND OUR
VIEW OF SOCIAL AND MORAL RESPONSIBILITY. He saw bad men
taking his place yet he let them go on, rejoicedin their work, though not in the
motive of it. Had he lived in our day he would have been told, "You cannot
afford to sit in a Church where these men teachor you will be responsible for
their teaching." He would have replied, "Who made you a judge; to their own
master they stand or fall." Every man is responsible for bin own conduct and
belief to God. If I please to work with men who are hereticalon some points of
theology, but who are right in the point in which I work with them (Unitarian
temperance reformers, e.g.), I am not responsible for their wrong beliefs, but
only for that part which I take. Paulwas grieved at the amount of error that
was in these men, but the small amount of truth he saw pleasedhim more.
III. THIS CHRISTIAN TOLERATION FOUNDED IN FAITH AND LOVE,
LEADS TO THE REAL AND ONLY REAL UNION POSSIBLE TO THE
CHRISTIAN CHURCH. External formulas are not unimportant, but there
never will be Christian union in this world until men feel that the invisible,

spiritual elements of truth, the interior experience of soul, are transcendently
more important than the idea forms, or the government forms, or the worship
forms of the Church. Humanity is our common bond outside; why should not
Christianity be within? "Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.
(H. W. Beecher.)
Love of Christ and the brethren the essentialqualificationfor preaching
Christ
G. G. Ballard.
I. IT GIVES IMPULSE TO ALL TRUE MOTIVE POWER. Fromthis
sprung their "goodwill."
II. IT IS KEEN IN PERCEIVING, EVEN IN CHAINS, THE WILL OF GOD.
"Knowing that I am set."
III. IT IS QUICK IN COOPERATINGTO ACCOMPLISHTHE WILL OF
GOD WHEN KNOWN.
IV. IT BINDS THE HEART IN SYMPATHY TO ALL WHO SUFFER IN
THE DEFENCEOF THE GOSPEL.
V. IT IS THE MIGHTIEST FORCE THAT MEN CAN WIELD FOR THE
GOSPEL'S TRIUMPH.
(G. G. Ballard.)

The preaching of Christ a reasonfor joy and holy exultation
Isaac Mann, M. A.
I. Let us inquire WHAT THE APOSTLE INTENDED BYTHE
PREACHING OF CHRIST.
1. The exhibition of Jesus as the Messiahsentto save a guilty world."(1)Such
a messengerhadbeen set forth by prophecy and types from the beginning.(2)
He was exhibited as truly human, sinless, Divine.
2. The publication of His greatwork, and ultimate design in visiting this
world.
(1)To atone for sin.
(2)To confer eternallife.
3. The assertionof His claims on all mankind.
(1)To their love.
(2)To their obedience.
II. GLORIOUS AS THIS THEME IS, YET MANY PREACH IT FROM
CORRUPT MOTIVES.

1. Some for gain — money, position, influence.
2. Some for victory in a controversialbattle.
3. Yet if Christ is really preached, whatever may be the condemnation of the
preacher, Christ's end will he secured.
III. THE REASONS WHY THE PREACHING OF CHRIST, UNDER ANY
CIRCUMSTANCES, IS A JUST OCCASION FOR HOLY JOY.
1. By this means the enemies of Christ are made to bear unequivocal
testimony to His dignity and glory, and to promote the interests of truth
without intending it: as the heathen writers quoted by Paul, and the devils'
confessionofChrist.
2. As the world can only be renovated by the preaching of Christ, so even His
enemies who preachHim contribute to this event. Think of the heathen world;
the acceptance ofChrist in any sense and from any hands cannot but better it.
3. We may be assuredthat God will certainly overrule the preaching of
Christ, even by wickedmen, to accomplishHis purpose of mercy. In much
inferior matters God controls the movements of bad men for His own glory.
He did so in the case ofJudas. Is it not then correctto argue that if God sub
ordinates the malignity, ambition, and haughtiness of men to the
accomplishmentof His providential purposes, He will also overrule them to
serve His designs of mercy? Witness the Reformationunder Henry
VIII.Application:

1. Our cause forrejoicing is exceedinglygreat. Notwithstanding there are
many parts where the gospelis imperfectly preached, yet there are thousands
of holy men who preach Christ from the purest motives.
2. Let us manifest our gratitude to Him who is preachedby a more lively zeal
in His cause.
3. Let us who love Christ draw into closerunion with one another. If we allow
bickering and strife while Christ's cause may prosper we shall be ruined.
4. Let the despondent be encouraged — anyhow Christ is preached. The
gospelis advancing in spite of our fears.
(Isaac Mann, M. A.)
Allowable contention
Lord Bacon.
God grant that we may contend with other Churches as the vine with the olive
— which of us shall bear the best fruit; but not as the briar with the thistle,
which of us will be the most unprofitable.
(Lord Bacon.)
An imprisoned preacher's thoughts
H. W. Beecher.

Paul was imprisoned for preaching the gospel, and was persecutedby them
who but for him would not have had a gospelto preach.
1. The apostle had, by nature, a temper that could not bear very much being
abused. He was naturally sensitive and aggressive.In prison and helpless no
doubt there were slight heavings of the old volcano at the conduct of his
opponents. Moreoverhis consciencewas aninspired one, and he must have
felt, "Who is a judge of orthodoxy if I am not?" Did he then rouse the alarm
and denounce these preachers of envy and strife? No, he rejoicedwhere few
could have rejoiced, viz., in prison, and at what few could have rejoiced, viz.,
that his enemies were doing good.
2. Paul might have felt that his life was thrown away, that God had need of
him. Many feelthat everything must be done, and that there is none to do it
hut themselves. Paulhad a right to feel so if any man had. But the thought
never seems to have occurredto him. No doubt he felt the cowardliness and
the cruelty of these men, but the feeling was swallowedup in the reflection
that they were doing his work when he could not do it himself.
3. Paul held that so precious is this truth of Jesus that no man can present
even a particle of it that is not worth presenting. You cannot preach Christ so
that it is not worth while to have preached Him thus. It is better that He
should be preachedby bad men for bad purposes than not preachedat all.
4. It would have been enough in Paul to have saidless than he did, such as "I
trust all will be for the best. I hope it will do some good, but I fear it will do
much harm. Of course I cannot associatewith them." On the contrary he
exults over the certain goodof the issue. The hounds of love are better than
the hounds of theologyto hunt heretics with. How painful not to know the
difference betweenconscience andcombativeness.

5. Considerin a few deductions the temptations to which men who are
working for religious ends are liable.
I. THE DANGER OF SUBSTITUTING ACTIVITY FOR THE LOVING
GRACES. The bee that goes buzzing about the flowers in the spring is very
useful; but, after all, I think the flowers, that never stir or buzz, are full as
interesting and far more important. The buzzing bee gets a gooddeal of
honey, but he would not get a particle if it were not for the silent flowers
which contain it all. There is a greatperil of an external rattling activity
leaving the heart cold, mechanical, and even malevolent.
II. THE DANGER OF ARROGANCE.
1. There are a greatmany people who saythat all Churches must be
constituted, work, and believe as their own.
2. Many of us have gotbeyond that, but how many of us can rejoice in the
Church whose services has swallowedup ours. But all that Paul wantedwas
that work should be done, whoeverdid it; and evenrejoicedthat others would
have the credit for the work he did. Conclusion:From the beginning until
today the powerof preaching has been and henceforthmill be, not in ideas but
in disposition.
(H. W. Beecher.)
The motives of Paul's enemies
J. Daille.

I. It may be that THE ENEMIES OF THE APOSTLE HOPED THAT THEIR
PREACHING WOULD IRRITATE NERO and his officers against
Christianity, and that, offended at this new increase which this doctrine had
received, they would quickly discharge their anger upon a prisoner, who was
the principal support of this growing religion, either by putting him to death
suddenly or by condemning him to some more grievous trouble than his
present prison.
II. It may be that envy had inspired them with the thought, that BY
LABOURING IN PREACHING THE GOSPELTHEY SHOULD OBTAIN A
PART OF THE APOSTLE'S GLORY, and that by making gooduse of the
time of his imprisonment, to establishthemselves in the minds of the disciples,
they should by degrees take awaythe credit and authority which he possessed;
and judging of him by themselves, they imagined that it would be an immense
increase to his affliction to see them thus enriched and decoratedwith his
spoils. Such or such like were the thoughts of these wretched men. Judge by
this what is the nature of vice, and how horrible its impudence in daring thus
to profane the most sacredthings, and to abuse them so vilely for, its own
ungodly purpose. Thus Satansometimes clothes himself as an angelof light to
further the works of darkness. Fromwhich you see that it is not enough that
Our actions be goodand praiseworthy, if our intentions are not pure and
upright. It is to profane the goodto do it with a bad end in view.
2. See how the thoughts of vice are not only impudent, but even foolishand
vain. These deceivers,judging of St. Paul by themselves, believed that their
preaching would vex him. Poorcreatures!how little you knew of this high-
minded man, to imagine that so small a thing could trouble him!
(J. Daille.)
Christ preachedby love

Boree.
I once askeda distinguished artist what place he gave to labour in art.
"Labour," he said, in effect, "is the beginning, the middle, and the end of
art." Turning then to another — "And you," I inquired, "whatdo you
considerthe greatforce in art:" "Love," he replied. In their two answers I
found but one truth.
(Boree.)
Evangelicalcongratulation
W. Brock, D. D.
How Paul would have rejoicedhad he been living now. The ministry at Rome
must have been on a comparativelyinsignificant scale. Butfor every man who
preachedthe gospelthen thousands are preaching it now. Why should there
have been such rejoicing in connectionwith the preaching of Christ crucified.
I. BecausetherebyTHE RENOVATION OF FALLEN MAN IS
INTELLIGENTLYPROPOSED.
1. High time, by common consent, something was done in that direction, and
many are the projects suggestedforit.
(1)Give the people a sound seculareducation.
(2)Give them remunerative employment.
(3)Conferupon them honourable enfranchisement.

(4)Take care to raise them into better and more civilized habits by better
dwellings, food, etc.
(5)Educate their tastes, openmuseums and art galleries.
2. Can you look at these laudable secondaryconsiderationswithout marking
their fatal defect? They deal with man externally and say not a word about his
internal renovation. If you leave a man's heart untouched there is that there
which will laugh all your culture to scorn. If his heart be right all will be right,
but not otherwise.
3. The gospelaims at making the heart right, and succeeds whereverit is
accepted.
II. Becausethereby THE RENOVATION IS GRACIOUSLY
GUARANTEED.
1. With the preaching of Christ God has formally connectedthe exertion of
His power. "With God all things are possible." The preacheris a fellow
workerwith God.
2. With this preaching God has been pleasedto associatethe accomplishment
of His purposes.
3. He has identified with preaching the manifestation of His sympathies.

(W. Brock, D. D.)
Goodwill
Goodwillthe spirit common to the brotherhood of the Christian ministry
G. G. Ballard.
I. IT IS GOD-LIKE.
1. The spirit characteristic ofall God's will towards men.
2. The spirit manifestedby His Son.
3. The spirit of the gospelmessage.
II. IT IS YIELDED TO AN HONOURED BROTHER.
1. To him as a man — his character, aims, and life.
2. To his labours in the cause of Christ.
3. To his future success.
(G. G. Ballard.)
The defence of the gospel

J. Lyth, D. D.
I. IS NECESSARY. It has many powerful, malignant enemies.
II. IS IMPERATIVE upon its professors,whetherministers or people.
III. MUST BE MAINTAINED IN LOVE to the truth, its advocates, andeven
its opponents.
(J. Lyth, D. D.)
Observe
J. Lyth, D. D.
I.THE CAUSE TO BE DEFENDED.
II.THE OPPOSITION TO WHICH IT IS EXPOSED.
III.THE MEANS OF ITS DEFENCE.
IV.THE PERSONS WHO OUGHT TO DEFENDIT.
(J. Lyth, D. D.)
The opponents of St. Paul
ProfessorEadie.

In the Corinthian Church there was a party that said, "I am of Cephas" —
followers of the apostle of the circumcision, and hostile to those who named
themselves from Paul. It is very probable that this Petrine party held high
views about the law; but there is no hint in the Epistle to the Corinthians that
they either held or taught such mischievous errors as were propagatedin
Galatia. Minor matters of ceremonialseemrather to have occupiedthem (1
Corinthians 8:10). But there is no question that the apostle's authority was
impugned in Corinth, and in all likelihoodby the Petrine party, because he
had not been personally calledby Jesus as Simon had been; and by the same
party his right to pecuniary support from the Churches seems to have been
denied or disputed. While therefore there was comparative purity in the
sectionthat took Peter for its head and watchword;there was also keenand
resolute opposition to the person and prerogative of the Apostle to the
Gentiles. To meet all the requirements of the case before us we have only to
suppose that such a party was formed at Rome, and Romans 14. seems to
indicate their existence. If there was a company of believing Jews, who held
the essentialdoctrines ofthe gospel, but was combative on points of inferior
value, and in connectionwith the socialinstitutions of their people, and who at
the same time were bitter and unscrupulous antagonists ofthe apostle, from
such an impression of his opinions as is indicated by James in Acts 21:20-21,
then such a party might preachChrist, and yet cherishtowards St. Paul all
those feelings of envy and ill will he ascribes to them. touches the truth when
he says they were jealous of the apostle. Calvin writes feelingly, "Paulsays
nothing here which I myself have not experienced. For there are men living
now who have preachedthe gospelwith no other designthan to gratify the
rage of the wickedby persecuting pious pastors."
(ProfessorEadie.)
Paul's joy in the preaching of his enemies
H. W. Beecher.
Paul's example is a rebuke to the excessive ecclesiasticalspirit. He saw
something goodin the worstmen who preached. Modern precisionists see the

worstin the best men. Paul lookedon the goodside. Modern orthodoxy is
disposedalways to look on the bad side. If a vase was cracked, Paulturned it
round and lookedupon the side where it was not cracked. If a vase is cracked,
we are disposedto turn it round and look on the side where the crack comes.
Paul would certainly rather have men preach Christ that loved Christ; but
rather than that Christ should not be preached he was willing that those who
did not love Him should preach.
(H. W. Beecher.)
Christ really though inadequately preached
H. W. Beecher.
The rising sun in the morning brings ten thousand noxious insects to life,
brings miasma from the morass, and sets disease flying through the land;
nevertheless, in spite of malaria, and in spite of all venemous insects that then
begin to move, and in spite of all mischiefs which waking men begin to
perform, it is infinitely better that the sun should rise, and that these evils
should take place, than that it should be everlastingly dark. It was better to
have Christ preachedby bad men than not at all. It was better to have the
gospelimperfectly delivered than not to have it made known in any way, or
only to a limited extent. The truth preachedwith manifold and manifest error
is a thousand times better than none at all. While the full and symmetrical
truth as it is in Jesus will do far more good, and goodof a far higher type,
than any fragmentary views, yet such is the vitality and powerof Christian
truth, that its very fragments are potent for good. One may stand before an
ample glass, long and broad, which reflects the whole figure, and the whole
room, giving every part in proportion and in relation. Break that mirror into
a thousand fragments, and eachone of these pieces will give back to you your
face;and though the amplitude of view and the relations of objects are gone,
yet the smallestfragment, in its nature and uses, is a mirror still, and you can
see your face withal. A full Christ reflects men, time, and immortality; but let
error shatter the celestialglass,and its fragments, reduced in value, do in part
some of that work which the whole did; and they are precious.

(H. W. Beecher.)
The preaching of Christ by whatever lips a source ofsatisfactionto Christians
Oliver Cromwell.
"You (Scotchcommissioners and Presbyterianclergyafter Dunbar) saythat
you have just cause to regretthat men of civil employments should usurp the
calling of the ministry to the scandalof the ReformedKirks. Are you troubled
that Christ is preached? Is preaching so exclusively your function? I thought
the covenantand those professors ofit could have been willing that any should
speak goodof the name of Christ; if not it is no covenantof God's approving."
(Oliver Cromwell.)
Powerof the Bible even in faulty versions
Anstera.
A railway man askedfor a genuine Catholic Bible, as he was not allowedto
read a hereticalversion like Luther's. "Here is the book you want," saidthe
colporteur, handing him a Van Ess copy. "Yes; that is the book," saidthe
man, after looking at it well. That happened a few weeksago, andnow Jesus is
his All, and he finds the same grand truths about Him, whether he takes
Luther's translation or Van Ess's. God's Word shall not return void to Him.
(Anstera.)
Powerof Christ preached
William Arnot.
The surestway of turning a person from one pleasure is to give him a greater
pleasure on the opposite side. A weeping willow planted by a pond in a
pleasure garden turns all to one side in its growth, and that the side on which

the waterlies. No dealing with its roots or with its branches will avail to
change its attitude; but place a largerexpanse of wateron the opposite side,
and the tree will turn spontaneouslyand hang the other way. So must man's
heart be won.
(William Arnot.)
The influence of the gospel
Bp. Ryle.
This is the weaponthat has won victories over hearts of every kind, in every
quarter of the globe. Greenlanders, Africans, South Sea Islanders, Hindoos,
and Chinese, have all alike felt its power. Just as that huge iron tube, which
crossesthe Menai Straits, is more affectedand bent by half an hour's sunshine
than by all the dead weight that can be placedin it, so in like manner the
hearts of savageshave melted before the Cross when every other argument
seemedto move them no more than if they had been stones.
(Bp. Ryle.)
COMMENTARIES
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
(18) The contrastof this verse with such passagesas 2Corinthians 12:4—
where the Judaisers at Corinth are said to preach “anotherJesus and a
different gospel;” with Galatians 1:6—where their gospelis declaredto be “a
different gospel,” andnot merely a variety of the same (see Note there); and
even with the emphatic warning as to Philippi, in Philippians 3:2-16, is
singularly instructive. St. Paul, in the words “in pretence” and “in truth,” is
speaking ofthe motives of the preachers, notof the substance of their

preaching. For the latter he cares much; for the former nothing. When (as at
Corinth) the rejectionof his personalauthority was bound up with rejection
of his apostolic doctrine, he rebukes it vehemently; when (as here) there was
no such connection, it is to him a very small thing. But we may also gather
from this that, whatever might be the case atPhilippi, at Rome St. Paul’s
Epistle had done its work, and the battle of principle was won; even at
Colossæit had wholly changed its character(see Colossians 2:16-23), andits
old phases had passedaway. The differences betweenthe parties at Rome
were no longer fundamental, although, as so often is the case, the bitterness of
division might remain. “Everyway Christ was preached,” and acceptedas
justifying through faith. This being so, St. Paul could rejoice. Even an
imperfect Christianity, with something of narrowness, and perhaps of
superstitious formalism, cleaving to it, was as different from the gross
heathenism which it superseded, as light from darkness.
Yea, and will rejoice.—Properly, I shall rejoice to the end. The words lead on
to the next verse, which gives the reasonofthis persistent rejoicing.
BensonCommentary
Php 1:18-20. What then? — What shall we think of these attempts,
proceeding from such different principles? Shall they grieve us? No, in no
wise. For, every way, whether in pretence — Under colourof propagating the
gospel;or in truth — With a real designso to do; Christ is preached — And
the greatdoctrine of salvationby him has a wider spread; and I therein do
rejoice, yea, and I will rejoice — That is, I shall have cause so to do in regard
of the goodissue it will have. The love which the apostle bore to Christ, had
extinguished in his mind resentment, pride, self-love, and all other evil
passions;insomuch that his greatestjoy resulted from the advancement of the
gospel, eventhough it was promoted by his enemies. We must observe,
however, that though truth is here opposedto pretence, it doth not follow that
preaching Christ in pretence means preaching false doctrine concerning him.
For the apostle could not rejoice that Christ was preachedin that manner.
Truth and pretence here relate not so much to the matters preached, as to the

views of the preachers. The Judaizers preached the truth concerning Christ,
at leastin part, when they affirmed him to be the JewishMessiah. Butthey
did this not purely and sincerelyto bring the Jews to believe on him, but also
and especiallyto inculcate at the same time the Jewishceremonies, and
thereby to extend the authority of their ritual law; and by these means
ultimately to grieve the apostle, and render his persecutors more bitter
againsthim. But others both preached Christ as the JewishMessiah, andalso
inculcated all the greatdoctrines of his gospel, truly and sincerelyintending to
bring both Jews and Gentiles to believe aright in him, and to embrace his
gospelin its purity. But from whatevermotive Christ was preached, according
to his true character, it was matter of joy to the apostle. ForI know that this
— Preaching of Christ, whether from a pure motive or otherwise, or this
trouble which I meet with from some of these teachers;shall turn to my
salvation— Namely, to the promotion of it, or shall procure me a higher
degree of glory; through your prayer — Continuing to be addressedto God
for me; and the supply of the Spirit of Christ — More largelycommunicated
to me in answerto it, and enabling me to make a gooduse of these trials.
According to my earnestexpectation — According to what I have all along
earnestlyhoped for; that in nothing I shall be ashamed — Whatever injurious
reflections may be caston my conduct; but that with all boldness — Bearing
testimony to every truth of the gospel;as always — Since my callto the
apostleship;so now Christ shall be magnified — Shall be honoured, and the
interest of his kingdom promoted; in my body, howeverit be disposedof,
whether by preserving its life, or allowing it to be put to death — For the
confirmation of the gospel. How that might be, he did not yet know. Forthe
apostles did not know all that should befall them, but were left in uncertainty
with respectto many things, that they might have cause for the exercise of
faith and patience.
Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary
1:12-20 The apostle was a prisoner at Rome; and to take off the offence of the
cross, he shows the wisdom and goodnessofGod in his sufferings. These
things made him known, where he would never have otherwise been known;
and led some to inquire after the gospel. He suffered from false friends, as
well as from enemies. How wretchedthe temper of those who preachedChrist

out of envy and contention, and to add affliction to the bonds that oppressed
this best of men! The apostle was easyin the midst of all. Since our troubles
may tend to the goodof many, we ought to rejoice. Whateverturns to our
salvation, is by the Spirit of Christ; and prayer is the appointed means of
seeking forit. Our earnestexpectationand hope should not be to be honoured
of men, or to escape the cross, but to be upheld amidst temptation, contempt,
and affliction. Let us leave it to Christ, which wayhe will make us serviceable
to his glory, whether by labour or suffering, by diligence or patience, by living
to his honour in working for him, or dying to his honour in suffering for him.
Barnes'Notes on the Bible
What then? - What follows from this? What effectdoes it have on my mind?
Does the factthat some preach from a spirit of envy and contention give me
pain?
Notwithstanding every way - No matter in what way it is done. We are not to
suppose, however, that Paul was indifferent as to the way in which the gospel
was preached, or the spirit with which it was done; but the meaning is, that it
was a matter of rejoicing that it was done at all, whateverthe motives might
be.
Whether in pretence or in truth - Whether as a mere pretext to coverup some
other design, or from pure motives. Their pretence was that they preached the
gospelbecause theybelieved it true and loved it; their realobject was to build
up a party, and to diminish the influence and authority of Paul.
Christ is preached- They made known the name of the Saviour, and
announced that the Messiahhad come. They could not go forth under any
pretence as preachers, without making known some truth about the
Redeemer. So now, it is hardly possible that any persons should attempt to
preach, without stating some truth that would not otherwise be known. The
name of a Saviour will be announced, and that will be something. Some views
of his life and work will be presented, which, though they may be far enough

from full views, are yet better than none. Though there may be much error in
what is said, yet there will be also some truth. It would be better to have
preachers that were better instructed, or that were more prudent, or that had
purer motives, or that held a more perfect system, yet it is much in our world
to have the name of the Redeemerannouncedin any way, and even to be told,
in the most stammering manner, and from whatever motives, that man has a
Saviour. The announcement of that fact in any way may save a soul; but
ignorance of it could save none.
And I therein do rejoice - This is an instance of greatmagnanimity on the part
of Paul, and nothing, perhaps, could better show his supreme love for the
Saviour. Paul preachedto increase his afflictions, and the tendency of that
preaching was, probably, as it was designedto be, to unsettle confidence in
him, and to lessenhis influence. Yet this did not move him. The more
important matter was secured, and Christ was made known; and if this were
secured, he was willing that his own name should be castinto the shade. This
may furnish valuable lessons to preachers ofthe gospelnow:
(1) When we are laid aside from preaching by sickness, we should rejoice that
others are in health, and are able to make the Saviour known, though we are
forgotten.
(2) when we are unpopular and unsuccessful, we should rejoice that others are
more popular and successful - for Christ is preached.
(3) when we have rivals, who have better plans than we for doing good, and
whose labors are crowned with success,we should not be envious or jealous -
for Christ is preached.

(4) when ministers of other denominations preach what we regardas error,
and their preaching becomes popular, and is attended with success, we can
find occasionto rejoice - for they preach Christ.
In the error we should not, we cannotrejoice;but in the factthat the great
truth is held up that Christ died for people, we can always find abundant
occasionfor joy. Mingled as it may be with error, it may be nevertheless the
means of saving souls, and though we should rejoice more if the truth were
preachedwithout any admixture of error, yet still the very fact that Christ is
made known lays the foundation for gratitude and rejoicing. If all Christians
and Christian ministers had the feelings which Paul expresses here, there
would be much less envy and uncharitableness than there is now in the
churches. May we not hope that the time will yet come when all who preach
the gospelwill have such supreme regard for the name and work of the
Saviour, that they will find sincere joy in the successofa rival denomination,
or a rival preacher, or in rival plans for doing good? Then, indeed,
contentions would cease, andthe hearts of Christians, "like kindred drops,"
would mingle into one.
Jamieson-Fausset-BrownBible Commentary
18. What follows from this? Does this trouble me as they thought it would?
"Notwithstanding" their unkind thought to me, and self-seeking intention, the
cause I have at heart is furthered "every way" of preaching, "whether in
pretense (with a by motive, Php 1:16) or in truth (out of true 'love' to Christ,
Php 1:17), Christ is proclaimed; and therein I do rejoice, yea, and I will
rejoice." Fromthis it would seemthat these self-seekingteachers inthe main
"proclaimedChrist," not "another Gospel," suchas the Judaizers in Galatia
taught (Ga 1:6-8); though probably having some of the Jewishleaven (see on
[2381]Php1:15,16), their chief error was their self-seeking envious motive, not
so much error of doctrine; had there been vital error, Paul would not have
rejoiced. The proclamation of Christ," howeverdone, rousedattention, and so

was sure to be of service. Paul could thus rejoice at the goodresult of their
bad intentions (Ps 76:10;Isa 10:5, 7).
Matthew Poole's Commentary
What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in, truth,
Christ is preached:q.d. It doth not follow, that these different intentions of
the preachers should hinder the spreading of the gospel, and therefore it
should not abate either your confidence or mine in the cause ofChrist, since,
by the overruling providence of God, that is carried on, both by the one and
the other; not only by those who in truth preach the word faithfully, Jeremiah
23:28 Matthew 22:16, from a principle of love, (as before), to the same good
intent with myself; but also by those who, though they act (as in Philippians
1:15) out of envy and ill will to me, for base ends under a fair show, 1
Thessalonians 2:5, yet they occasionallyand accidentally, not by any direct
causality, do promote the interest of Christ.
And I therein do rejoice;and upon this account, that there is so goodan effect,
as the making knownof Christ for the salvationof sinners, I have matter of
present joy.
Yea, and will rejoice;yea, and hereupon for the future, though some should
continue to do that in itself which might aggravatehis affliction, yet it should
not take his joy from him eventually; howeverdirectly and of itself it tend to
it, yet indirectly and by accident, God disposing, it should issue well for the
furtherance of the gospel.
Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible
What then? notwithstanding every way,.... What follows from hence? what is
to be concludedfrom all this? what is to be thought or said in this case?this,
that notwithstanding these brethren actedon those different principles, and
with those different views:

whether in pretence: of love to Christ, zeal for the Gospel, and concernfor the
goodof souls; though their real views were their own applause, and detriment
to the apostle's character;or "by occasion", as the Syriac version renders the
word, and as many interpreters think is the sense of it; occasionallypreaching
Christ, and making a handle of this to gain some other points, and get,
advantages to themselves as some:
or in truth; as the hearty friends of Christ and the apostle did; they not only
preachedChrist who is the truth, and the truth as it is in Jesus, and every
truth of the Gospel;and especiallythat fundamental one, salvationalone by a
crucified Christ, and that without any adulteration or concealing any part of
it; but with greatpurity of mind, with integrity of heart, and in the
uprightness of their souls; as of sincerity, and in the sight of God; without
selfishand sinister ends, and any ambitious views and evil designs:whether it
was now in the one or the other way, upon the one or the other principles and
views, the apostle stoodthus affected;and these were his sentiments,
reflections, and resolutions, that inasmuch as
Christ is preached;in the glory of his person, in the fulness of his grace, in the
suitableness ofhis offices and greatsalvation, in the excellencyof his
righteousness, andthe virtue of his blood, and the efficacyof his sacrifice,
and therein I do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice;not that it was an indifferent
thing with him, whether Christ was sincerelyor hypocritically preached; or
that he could take any pleasure in the manner of preaching, and in the
principles and views of one sort of these preachers;for nothing was more
disagreeable to him than envy and ambition, strife and contention, hypocrisy
and insincerity; but he rejoicedin the subject matter of their ministry, which
was Christ Jesus the Lord, whom he dearly loved, and whose interest, if
served by any means, or any sort of persons, was a pleasure to him; and also
in the effects and consequencesoftheir ministry, the establishing of the saints,

the conversionof sinners, the spreadof the Gospel, and the enlargementof the
interest of Christ: all which may be answeredthrough the preaching of
Christ, by evil designing men; for Christ and his Gospelare the same by
whomsoeverpreached, and God may make use of his own truths to answerhis
ends and purposes, whoeverare the dispensers of them, and though they
themselves may be castaway, as Judas and others.
Geneva Study Bible
{5} What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in {m} pretence, or in
truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
(5) He shows by setting forth his own example, that the end of our afflictions is
true joy, and this results through the powerof the Spirit of Christ, who he
gives to those that ask.
(m) Under a false pretence and disguise:for they make Christ a cloak for
their ambition and envy.
EXEGETICAL(ORIGINAL LANGUAGES)
Meyer's NT Commentary
Php 1:18. On τί γάρ, scil. ἐστι, comp. on Romans 3:3, where, however, γάρ is
not, as here, conclusive (see on 1 Corinthians 11:22[67]);comp. also Klotz, ad
Devar. p. 245. It is rendered necessaryby the πλήν that the mark of
interrogationshould not be placed (as it usually is) after τί γάρ, but the
question goes onto καταγγέλλεται (comp. Hofmann); and it is to be observed
that through πλήν the τί γάρreceives the sense ofτί γὰρ ἄλλο (see Heindorf,
ad Plat. Soph. p. 232 C). Hence: what else takes place therefore (in such a
state of the case)exceptthat, etc., i.e. what else than that by every sort of
preaching, whether it is done in pretence or in truth, Christ is proclaimed?
and therein, that it is always Christ whom they preach, I rejoice, etc. How

magnanimous is this liberality of judgment as to the existing circumstances in
their reference to Christ! By προφάσει and ἀληθείᾳ is indicated the
characteristic difference in the two kinds of preachers, Php 1:15-17, and thus
παντὶ τρόπῳ receives the more precise definition of its respective parts. As
regards the first class, the preaching of Christ was not a matter of sincerity
and truth—wherein they, in accordancewith their sentiments, were really
concernedabout Christ, and He was the realαἰτία of their working (see on the
contrastbetweenαἰτία and πρόφασις, Polyb. iii. 6. 6 ff.)—but a matter of
pretence, under the cloak ofwhich they entertained in their hearts envy,
strife, and cabal, as the real objects of their endeavours. Forinstances of the
antithesis betweenπρόφασις and ἀλήθεια or τἀληθές, see Raphel, Polyb.;
Loesnerand Wetstein. To take πρόφασις as opportunity, occasion(Herod. i.
29, 30, iv. 145, vi. 94; Dem. xx. 26; Antiph. v. 21; Herodian, i. 8. 16, v. 2. 14),—
as, following the Vulgate, Luther, Estius, Grotius (“nam occasione illi Judaei,
dum nocere Paulo student, multos pertrahebant ad evang.”), and others
understand it,—is opposedto the contextin Php 1:15-17, in which the want of
honest dispositionis setforth as the characteristic mark of these persons. On
πλήν in the sense ofἤ, comp. Kühner, II. 2, p. 842.
ἐν τούτῳ]the neuter: therein, in accordancewith the conceptionof that in
which the feeling has its basis. Comp. Colossians 1:24;Plat. Rep. x. p. 603 C;
Soph. Tr. 1118;Kühner, II. 1, p. 403. In the Χριστὸς καταγγέλλεται lies the
apostle’s joy.
ἀλλὰ καὶ χαρήσομαι]surpassing the simple χαίρω by a plus, and therefore
added in a corrective antithetical form (imo etiam); comp. on 1 Corinthians
3:2; 2 Corinthians 11:1. To begin a new sentence with ἀλλά (Lachmann,
Tischendorf), and to severχαρήσομαι from its connectionwith ἐν τούτῳ
(Hofmann, who makes the apostle only assertgenerallythat he will continue
to rejoice also in the future), interrupts, without sufficient reason, the flow of
the animated discourse, and is also opposedby the proper reference of οἶδα
γάρ in Php 1:19. This applies also in opposition to Hinsch, p. 64 f.

[67] According to Weiss, γάρis intended to establishthe οἰόμενοι κ.τ.λ., so far
as the latter is only an empty imagination. But this is an unnecessaryseeking
after a very obscure reference. The τι γάρ draws, as it were, the result from
vv. 15–17.Hence also we cannot, with Huther, adopt as the sense:“it then so,
as they think?”
REMARK.
Of course this rejoicing does not refer to the impure intention of the
preachers, but to the objective result. See, already, Augustine, c. Faust. xxii.
48; c. Ep. Parm. ii. 11. Nor does παντὶ τρόπῳ apply to the doctrinal purport of
the preaching (Galatians 1:8), but to its ethical nature and method, to
disposition and purpose. See Chrysostomand those who follow him.
Nevertheless the apostle’s judgment may excite surprise by its mildness
(comp. Php 3:2), since these opponents must have taught what in substance
was anti-Pauline. But we must consider, first, the tone of lofty resignationin
generalwhich prevails in this passage, andwhich might be fitted to raise him
more than elsewhere above antagonisms;secondly, that in this case the danger
did not affect, as it did in Asia and Greece, in Galatia and Corinth, his
personalsphere of apostolicalministry; thirdly, that Rome was the very place
in which the preaching of Christ might appear to him in itself of such
preponderating importance as to induce him in the meantime, while his own
ministry was impeded and in fact threatened with an imminent end, to
allow—ingenerous tolerance, the lofty philosophical spirit of which
Chrysostomhas admired—of even un-Pauline admixtures of doctrine, in
reliance on the discriminating powerof the truth; lastly, that a comparisonof
Php 3:2 permits the assumption, as regards the teachers referredto in the
present passage, ofa less important grade of anti-Pauline doctrine,[68]and
especiallyof a tenor of teaching which did not fundamentally overthrow that
of Paul. Comp. also on Php 3:2. All the less, therefore, canthe stamp of
mildness and forbearance which our passagebears be used, as Baur and

Hitzig[69] employ it, as a weaponof attack againstthe genuineness of the
epistle. Comp. the appropriate remarks of Hilgenfeld in his Zeitschr. 1871, p.
314 ff.; in opposition to Hinsch, see on Php 1:15. Calvin, moreover, well says:
“Quamquam autem gaudebatPaulus evangeliiincrementis, nunquam tamen,
si fuisset in ejus manu, tales ordinassetministros.”
[68] Comp. Lechler, apost. Zeitalt. p. 388.
[69] Who thinks that he recogniseshere an indistinct shadow of Tacitus,
Agric. 41:“Optimus quisque amore et fide, pessimi malignitate et livore.”
Expositor's Greek Testament
Php 1:18-20. HIS JOY IN THE PREACHING OF CHRIST AND
EXPECTATION OF SUCCESSIN HIS CAUSE.
Cambridge Bible for Schools andColleges
18. What then?] “Whatmatters it? Qu’importe?” The right order of the two
previous verses gives full force to such a question.
notwithstanding] Better, only. With beautiful significance he modifies the
thought that it matters not. There is one respectin which it matters; it
promotes the diffusion of the Gospel.
R.V. reads, only that; an elliptical phrase, for “only I must confess that,” or
the like. The documentary evidence for the word “that” is strong, but not
decisive.
pretence]The Judaists would “pretend,” perhaps even to themselves, that
their energy came of pure zeal for God.

preached] Better, proclaimed. See secondnote on Php 1:16.—In modern
English the Greek (present) tense is best representedby is being proclaimed.
I therein] Better, therein I, &c. There is no emphasis on “I” in the Greek.
will rejoice]Better, perhaps, with Alford, Ellicott, and Lightfoot (but not so
R.V.), shall rejoice;an expectation, rather than a resolve. He is assuredthat
the future will only bring fresh reasons forrejoicing.
No long comment is needed on the noble spiritual lesson of this verse. The
interests of his Lord are his own, and in that fact, realized by the grace of
God, he finds, amidst circumstances extremely vexatious in themselves, more
than equanimity—positive happiness. Self has yielded the inner throne to
Christ, and the result is a Divine harmony betweencircumstances andself, as
both are seenequally subject to Him and contributing to His ends.
Bengel's Gnomen
Php 1:18. Τί γὰρ, what then?) What does it matter? That is, I am helped [the
cause I have at heart is furthered] either way, Php 1:12.—πλήν, yet)
nevertheless.—προφάσει, in pretext) Such men, says he, make the name of
Christ a pretext: they really designto excite againstme ill-will.—ἀληθείᾳ, in
truth) from the heart, seriously.
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 18. - What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretense, or in
truth, Christ is preached; rather, only that, as R.V. (comp. Acts 20:23). What
is the result of all this preaching? Only that Christ is announced, that the
story of Christ is told. The motives of the preachers may not be good, but the
result is good; the gospelfacts are made more widely known, not only by those
who preach in sincerity, but even by means of those who strive to promote

their own party ends under the pretense of preaching Christ. And I therein do
rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. St. Paul rejoices in the goodwhich God brings
out of evil; though that goodis produced by the outward agencyof his own
adversaries. Yea, and I shall rejoice. He will not allow himself to be vexed by
the bitterness of his opponents, he will not imitate their party spirit; his joy
will continue, for he knows that, in spite of present hindrances, the result is
assured.
Vincent's Word Studies
What then?
Such being the case, how does it affect me?
Notwithstanding (πλὴν)
Readπλὴν ὅτι exceptthat. Rev., only that. What is my feeling in view of these
things? Only that I rejoice that Christ is preached.
In pretense
With a spirit of envy and faction, possibly with a counterfeitedzeal for truth.
PRECEPTAUSTIN RESOURCES
BRUCE HURT MD

Philippians 1:18. What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or
in truth, Christ is proclaimed and in this I rejoice . Yes, and I will rejoice
(NASB: Lockman)
Greek:ti gar? plen hoti panti tropo, eite prophasei eite aletheia|, Christos
kataggelletai, (3SPPI)kaien touto chairo (1SPAI) alla kai charesomai,
(1SFPI)
Amplified: But what does it matter, so long as either way, whether in pretense
[for personalends] or in all honesty [for the furtherance of the Truth], Christ
is being proclaimed? And in that I [now] rejoice, yes, and I shall rejoice
[hereafter] also. (Amplified Bible - Lockman)
KJV: What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in
truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
NIV: But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way,
whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because ofthis I
rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, (NIV - IBS)
NLT: But whether or not their motives are pure, the factremains that the
messageaboutChrist is being preached, so I rejoice. And I will continue to
rejoice. (NLT - Tyndale House)
Phillips: But what does it matter? Howeverthey may look at it, the fact
remains that Christ is being preached, whether sincerelyor not, and that fact
makes me very happy. Yes, and I shall go on being very happy (Phillips:
Touchstone)

Wuest: What is my feeling in view of these things? (Supposing they do
purpose to make my chain gall me). The only thing that follows is that in
every manner whether in pretense or in truth, whether insincerely or
sincerely, Christ is being announced; and in this I am rejoicing, and certainly
I will continue to rejoice."
Young's Literal: what then? in every way, whether in pretence or in truth,
Christ is proclaimed -- and in this I rejoice, yea, and shall rejoice.
What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is
proclaimed: ti gar? hoti panti tropo, eite prophasei eite aletheia|, Christos
kataggelletai, (3SPPI):
Ro 3:9; 6:15; 1 Co 10:19;14:15
Phil 1:14, 15, 16, 17; Mt 23:14;Mk 12:40
Mk 9:38, 39, 40; Lk 9:45, 9:50; 1Cor15:11; 2Jn1:9, 1:10, 1:11
THE SUMMUN BONUM:
CHRIST IS BEING PROCLAIMED
What then? - In chains and irritated by the annoying petty preachers, Paul
could easily have said"Why me Lord?" Instead he says "What does it matter
as long as Christ is preached." The NIV gives us a goodsense ofPaul's
reaction- "But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way,
whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached." (Phi 1:18NIV)

Such being the case, how does it affect me? This essentialthing Paul sees in
spite of all their envy and selfishness is that Christ is openly publicly
proclaimed. Paul's attitude towards his persecutors indicates he was more
concernedwith the salvationof the lost than with vindication for himself.
Paul is not concernedabout vindicating himself or being vindictive to the
petty preachers. In showing us this attitude he gives us a perfect example of
Php 2:4-note "do not merely look out for your own personalinterests, but also
for the interests of others." The "others" he was looking out for were those
lost souls who had never heard the Gospelpreachedand were at leasthearing
it from these men with sorry motives but a sound message!This is the same
attitude we find in Jesus in Php 2:5-8 where He laid down His holy privileges
that men might be redeemed.
Only that in every way whether - While some commentaries suggestthe petty,
exploitative preachers were preaching another Gospel, Paulsays here that
"Christ is proclaimed." He would hardly say that about preachers who were
adding legalistic rituals, etc (e.g., like the Judaizers) to the GoodNews. No, it
was not that their message wasbad, but that their motive was bad!
Php 1:18b-20 - Paul's conviction that whateverthe future holds he will not be
deprived of joy, because Christwould be exalted in him.
Php 1:21-26 - Paul's reasonfor his perspective and what he believes the
outcome of his circumstances
Gene Getz's outline of Phil 1:18b-26
A. Paul's Hope - Php 1:18b-20
1. His source of hope

a. The prayers of the Philippians
b. The Holy Spirit
c. God's faithfulness in the past
2. His hope explained
a. I will be delivered - Php 1:19
b. I will not be ashamed- Php 1:20
c. I will have sufficient courage - Php 1:20
d. I will exalt Christ in my body - Php 1:20b
B. Paul's Struggle - Php 1:21-23
1. To live is Christ
2. To die is gain
C. Paul's Decision- Php 1:24-26
1. I will remain
2. I will minister to you
Rod Mattoon
Php 1:19 - Dependence onGod
Php 1:20 - DecisionforGod
Php 1:20-26 Dedicationof Paul
Application of Php 1:18b-26

Why does he rejoice? With eyes of faith Paul sees worldlyobstacles as divine
opportunities - seeing God’s purposes in his problems, (Ed: Fixing his eyes on
Jesus), by making the Gospelhis goal, by giving courage to other Christians
and by making sure the messageofChrist is all that matters.
Php 1:19a - Use the Powerof Prayer - It gave Paul joy to know others were
praying for him. He was not shy to ask for prayer (1 Th 5:25, 2 Th 3:1). Note
that in 2 Th 3:1 Paul linked prayer with the spreadof the Gospelas he did in
Eph 6:19-20.
Php 1:19b - Rely on the Provisionof the Holy Spirit -
In pretense or in truth - "Whether sincerelyor insincerely." (Wuest).
Frank Thielman - God canuse unscrupulous televangelists, money-grubbing
radio preachers, and sophisticatedbut unbelieving clergy to communicate his
truth. The work is God’s, and when we find ourselves surrounded by
unfaithful people of the church who do not respond to our pleas that they
mend their ways, our joy will remain intact if we remember that God is in
control and that wherever Christ is preached, God can advance the gospel.
(NIV Application Commentary)
HCSB Note - Paul acceptedthe messageand work of both groups. Trusting
God's sovereignty, he refused to condemn improper motivations as long as, in
the end result, Christ was proclaimed.
Pretense (4392)(prophasis from prophaíno = to appearbefore, be apparent
<> pró = before + phaíno = to appear, to shine before)(Click word study on

prophasis) refers to an ostensible presentationwith an ulterior (Ulterior =
going beyond what is openly said or shown and especiallywhat is proper)
motive which is often untrue.
Pretense refers to that which is professedrather than that which is one's heart
intention or purpose. the actof giving a false appearance. anartful or
simulated semblance. A false display; affectation. Pretending or feigning;
make-believe. A false show of something.
Prophasis is an outward show or appearance, a pretense or pretext designed
to coverone's realintent. Pretext is defined as the purpose or motive alleged
or an appearance assumedin order to cloak the real intention or state of
affairs and suggests subterfuge and the offering of false reasons ormotives in
excuse or explanation.
The detractor's proclamationof Christ was from impure motives, but God
would one day judge these motives
Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the
Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and
disclose the motives of men’s hearts; and then eachman’s praise will come to
him from God. (1 Cor4:5).
A selfishly motivated preachercan still be used of God, though not as much as
he could be otherwise. WhatGod uses is not so much the preacheras the
messageThe powerof the Gospelis more powerful than the packageit comes
in.

Note that the emphasis is on preaching Christ but if one deviates from that
teaching John warns us that
"Anyone who goes too far and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does
not have God. The one who abides in the teaching, he has both the Father and
the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not
receive him into your house, and do not give him a greeting." (2Jn1:9, 1:10)
Petty messengersdo not void a powerful message!The Gospelhas intrinsic
power. Romans 1:16 "I am not ashamedof the Gospel, forit is the POWER
OF GOD (the dynamis of God) for salvationto everyone who believes to the
Jew first and also to the Greek." The Gospelis dependent on God's powernot
our polished presentation!This should encourage youif you are timid or feel
inadequate to speak the Gospel- you may not be the most eloquent speaker,
but God is not looking for Gospelmessengerswith ability but with
availability. We are to speak the simple, but powerful messagethat Jesus died
for our sins, was buried, was raisedon the third day. That's the Gospelin
brief. If you speak that in your causalconversation, don't worry about how
eloquent you were, but take heart that God's Word especiallythe Gospeldoes
not return void without accomplishing what He intended. We are just a bunch
of farmers, casting seedinto the soil. Paul said "I sowed, Apollos watered, but
it was God Who gives the growth." Be faithful to speak the Gospeland you
will be fruitful.
Dwight Edwards - What Paul's attention was riveted upon is describedin the
rest of this verse:
(1) THE LAMP NOT BE PUT UNDER A BASKET (Mt 5:15) "that in
nothing I shall be ashamed."

(2) THE LAMP BE PUT ON A LAMPSTAND THAT IT MAY GIVE LIGHT
TO ALL WHO ARE IN THE HOUSE (Mt 5:15) "but that with all boldness
(parreesia--'openness')as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my
body whether by life or by death."
Paul's passionin life can be well summed up from this verse: ALL OF
CHRIST THROUGH ALL OF ME AT ALL TIMES IN ALL
CIRCUMSTANCES. Note whatthe purpose of the lavish supply of Christ's
Spirit is for--the magnifying (lit.- enlarging)of Himself. God only funds His
own projects!
Christ (5547)(Christosfrom chrio = to rub or anoint, consecrate to an office)
means one who has been anointed, symbolizing appointment to a task. The
majority of the NT uses referto Jesus (exceptions = "false Christs" - Mt
24:24, Mk 13:22).
Being proclaimed (present tense = continually) (2605)(kataggellofrom kata =
an intensifier, down + aggelos= messengerand aggello = to declare, report)
literally means to "declare down". It means to announce, to make knownin
public plainly, openly and loudly! It was used of religious messagesand
conveyedthe sense ofa solemn proclamation (Acts 4:2)
What does it mean Christ was being proclaimed? - Luke gives us a good
answerin Acts 4:33 writing
And with greatpower(dunamis - enabled by the Spirit - Acts 1:8-note) the
apostles were giving testimony to the resurrectionof the Lord Jesus, and
abundant grace was upon them all.

And in this I rejoice . Yes, and I will rejoice:kai en touto chairo (1SPAI) alla
kai charesomai(1SFPI):
REJOICING OVER
THE PAST AND THE FUTURE
And in this I rejoice - In what? "In this" refers to Paul's rejoicing despite the
fact that some preachers had mixed motives, Christ was being proclaimed!
When the exaltationof Christ and His Gospelis your focus, the things of this
world grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace!
Paul was able to minister so powerfully horizontally (manward), because he
continually maintained his "vertical vision" (see discussionof Vertical
Vision). Like any goodteacher, Paul modeled what he commanded (see Col
3:1, 2-note). Where is your focus most of the week - on Christ or on your
circumstances?Where your focus is will radically impact your response to
trials and afflictions.
Corrie TenBoom said it this way "Look around and be distressed. Look
inside and be depressed. Look atJesus (our Joy) and be at rest." Indeed the
writer of Hebrews exhorts us to continually "fix (present tense and see word
picture of this greatverb aphorao)our eyes on Jesus" (Heb 12:2-note), for
outside of Him, there is no true JOY (J.O.Y. - "Jesus Others Yourself)!
Paul did not rejoice because there was a factionamong members of Christ’s
body, for this brought him grief. He rejoicedbecause Christwas proclaimed.

Gordon Fee on rejoice - For Paul, as for the rest of the NT in general, the
presence orabsence of joy is quite unrelated to one’s circumstances, as Paul’s
letter to the Philippians makes plain. It is relatedin its entirety to what God
has done for us in Christ through the Spirit. The Pauline imperative,
stemming from joy as the fruit of the Spirit, is not simply, “rejoice”—
although it often comes in that basic form as well—but “rejoice in the Lord.”
This focus is the key to our understanding the joy of the Spirit. A community
that is “rejoicing in the Lord always” is not a community easilygiven to
“eating and devouring one another” (Gal 5:15), in which people think much
too highly of themselves (Gal 6:4). (The Empowering Presenceofthe Holy
Spirit in the Letters of Paul).
Theilman - PAUL’S REPORT ON his own circumstances continues in Phil
1:18b–26 by turning to the future. He not only rejoices to see Godat work in
his presentcircumstances to advance the Gospel, but he “will continue to
rejoice” as God’s faithfulness perseveres into whatevercircumstances await
him. (NIV Application Commentary)
Warren Wiersbe says "The secretof his joy is the single mind; he lives for
Christ and the Gospel. (Christ is named eighteentimes in Philippians 1, and
the Gospelis mentioned six times.) “Forto me to live is Christ, and to die is
gain” (Phil. 1:21). But what really is “the single mind”? It is the attitude that
says, “It makes no difference what happens to me, just as long as Christ is
glorified and the Gospelshared with others.” Paulrejoicedin spite of his
circumstances, because his circumstances strengthenedthe fellowshipof the
Gospel(Phil. 1:1–11), promoted the furtherance of the Gospel(Phil. 1:12–26),
and guarded the faith of the Gospel(Phil. 1:27–30)."(Bible Exposition
Commentary)
J Ligon Duncan - whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, in this
I rejoice.’Why? Becauseas far as Paul is concernedit's not about him, it's

about Christ. It's not about Paul being first, Paul gaining fame. It's about
Christ. (Ed: Think of the little neumonic for "joy" - J.O.Y. = Jesus Others
Yourselves.)
John MacArthur writes that "One of the surest measures ofa Christian’s
spiritual maturity is what it takes to rob him of his Spirit-bestowedjoy. (Ed:
This begs the question brother or sisterin Christ - how is your joy as you read
this note?)Paul’s maturity is evident in the presenttext as he makes it clear
that difficult, unpleasant, painful, even life-threatening circumstances did not
rob him of joy but rather causedit to increase. Although it is a gift from God
to every believer and administered by the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:22), joy is not
always constantand full (cf. 1 John 1:4). The only certaincause for loss of joy
in a believer’s life is sin, which corrupts his fellowshipwith the Lord, who is
the source ofjoy. Such sinful attitudes as dissatisfaction, bitterness, sullenness,
doubt, fear, and negativism cause joy to be forfeited. Consequently, the only
way to restore lostjoy is to repent and return to proper worship of and
obedience to God. Anything other than sin—no matter how difficult, painful,
or disappointing—need not take awaythe believer’s joy. Yet even minor
things can do so if believers reactsinfully to them. A change for the worse in
health, job, finances, personalrelationships, or other important areas of life
can easilycause believers to question the Lord, His sovereignwisdom, and His
gracious provision. When that happens, joy is one of the first casualties.
Believers are especiallyvulnerable when such things happen suddenly, taking
them off guard. Their response is often one of anger, doubt, distrust, fear, self-
pity, ingratitude, or complaining. In such cases, events that are not sinful in
themselves lead to sinful responses thatstealjoy....Although he was not
writing this epistle from a dungeon but a private residence (Acts 28:16, 30),
Paul was chained night and day to a Romansoldier. He had no privacy when
he ate, when he slept, when he wrote, when he prayed, or when he preached,
taught, or visited with friends (Acts 28:17–31). Yet for a period of two years
this very lack of privacy made it impossible for the Romansoldiers guarding
him to avoid hearing the gospeland witnessing Paul’s remarkable
Christlikeness.

Bob Deffinbaugh applies the truth in this section - How does Paul respond to
this underhanded attack from those who know Christ, and who successfully
preach Christ? Most of us would be greatly distressed, and perhaps even
depressedby this kind of betrayal and opposition. We would probably spend a
greatdeal of time and effort defending ourselves and exposing our opponents.
Paul is not disposedto do this. He rejoices. He knows that God is in control.
He knows that God will not allow the gospelto be defeated, whether that be
by unbelievers who oppose it (for example, the unbelieving Jews who charged
Paul with treasonagainstRome)or by those who profess and proclaim it
(such as those who preachedChrist with impure motives). He knew that while
these folks “meant it for evil,” God “meant it for good” (see Genesis 50:20).
Unbelievers were not deceived;they knew that the issue behind Paul’s
imprisonment was really the gospel. And regardless oftheir motivation, the
gospelof Jesus Christwas being vigorously proclaimed. Paul was resolvedto
rejoice in the successofthe gospel, evenif it was at his expense......letus learn
from our text that Paul did not allow adversity to rob him of his joy in the
Lord. There are times in my own life when I realize that I am “down in the
dumps,” discouragedordepressed. And when I seek to discoverthe source of
my lack of joy, I often find that it is causedby some rather trivial matter. In
Paul’s case, it was no trivial matter that brought about his incarceration;he
was falselyaccusedby his unbelieving Jewishopponents, and even by fellow-
saints. One might think that Paul had goodreasonto be discouraged, but he
was not! Paul was deeply joyful and resolutelydetermined to continue to be
so. He would not allow his circumstances to rob him of his joy. How canthis
be? How canPaul remain joyful in such adversity? It all boils down to Paul’s
priorities. What is it that Paul most desires, and in which he finds his delight?
It is the advance of the gospel, evenif that requires sacrifice and suffering on
his part. Paul’s joy is not in being popular and being considereda great
leader; it is in the proclamationof the gospel, the salvationof lost souls, and
the growthof Christians. The secretto Paul’s joy was having the right goal.
Let me illustrate. Suppose that a man plays a game of golfwith his friends,
and after 18 holes of golflearns that this round of golf resulted in the worst
score ofhis life. If this man’s goalwas “winning,” then he would go home

discouragedand disappointed, because he failed to achieve his goal. But
suppose that this man’s goalwas to enjoy the companionship of his golfing
partners or to share the gospelwith them. If this man achievedhis goal, then
it would not matter to him whether he won or lost the game. In fact, if doing
poorly provided an opening for him to share his faith, he would rejoice in his
failure. This is the way it was with Paul. His goalwas not to be admired by
everyone or to achieve greatfame. He goalwas not to live a life of freedom
and self-indulgence. His goalwas to proclaim the gospelto as many lost
sinners as possible. His goal, as indicated by God at the time of his conversion,
was to preach the gospelto Gentile kings, as well as to the Jews (see Acts
9:15). That goalwas being achievedat the expense of his ease and freedom
and self-indulgence, but it was being achieved. Paul was filled with joy in our
text because the gospelwas being proclaimed, and lost sinners were being
saved. Paul gladly sacrificedhis “image” as wellas his comfort for the cause
of the gospel. Put differently, Paul would not be robbed of his joy because he
lookedat his life and ministry as his Saviordid. In short, Paul had “the mind
of Christ.” As we shall soonread in Philippians 2, our Lord was willing to set
aside the pleasures ofliving in the presence of His Father in heaven, so that
lost sinners might be saved. As our Lord was willing to suffer, that men might
be saved, so was the Apostle Paul. And as the salvationof lostsinners brings
joy to our Lord, even though it was at greatpersonalsacrifice to the Savior, so
it was with Paul. Thanks to a friend, I came across this quotation by Jean
Nicolas Grou(1731-1803):“The chief pang of most trials is not so much the
actualsuffering itself as our own spirit of resistance to it.” I believe it would
be proper to turn this excellentstatement around, in a way that would explain
the joy of the apostle Paul: “The Christian’s joy in the midst of trials is not to
be found in the suffering itself (which would be mere masochism), but in the
privilege of taking part in the goodends God has foreordained to come about
through these trials.” (Paul's Perspective onPain and Pettiness - Phil 1:12-18)
I rejoice looks backwardatthe circumstances (including the spread of the
Gospelin the Roman elite troops, the increasedcourageofthe saints in Rome
and the petty preachers)and he is able to rejoice becauseChrist is continually
being proclaimed.

I will rejoice looks to the future and proceeds to give the reasonhe will
continue to rejoice - in sum, all that happened to him will result in his
deliverance.
I rejoice...willrejoice (5463)(chairo a primary verb) (Click word study of
related word chara = joy) means to to feel joy or greatdelight. Note that
rejoice is in the presenttense indicating Paul was continually rejoicing.
Rejoicing is not a natural reactionto suffering circumstances (jail) or when
one gets news of petty preachers evenseeking to harm you, but is only possible
supernaturally. So againwe see that although not specificallymentioned in
the text, Paul is clearly filled with the Holy Spirit (Eph 5:18-note)Who is
continually empowering a joyful response in Paul spite of his negative
circumstances and criticalcompetition! And to support the conclusionthat
Paul is a Spirit filled prisoner, Gal 5:22 makes it clearthat joy is the fruit of
the Spirit. Note also that I rejoice is in the active voice indicating it is a choice
of his will to rejoice. Paulwas 100%responsible to rejoice, but he was 100%
dependent on the Spirit to enable him to rejoice continually (cf 1 Th 5:16-
note). 100%and 100%is not goodmath but it is goodtheology! Are you
really confused now? Let me encourage youto take and moment and read the
rationale in the sectionentitled the "ParadoxicalPrinciple of 100%
Dependent and 100%Responsible."
Rejoice gives us a greatword picture for it was used to describe a little lamb
skipping around with joy. Rejoice describes a physicalchange in your
countenance as an expressionof inner transformation. You can't fake a joyful
face. Notreally! It is a physical expressionof joy and something that radiates
to people around you. You can walk around and say that you are rejoicing but
if it's not seenin your face, then you are not rejoicing.

Notice how Paul interweaves "joy" or "rejoice" throughall 4 chapters (Click
for all 12v)
Robertsonadds that the second "rejoice"is "volitive (i.e., involves a choice of
one's will) use of the future indicative. Paul is determined to rejoice in spite of
the efforts of the (opponents) to prod him to anger.
Paul didn't allow his circumstances to stealhis joy and this is a lessonwe all
need to learn. To Paul what mattered most was that the truth of Christ was
proclaimed and thus he made the Spirit enabled, volitional choice to rejoice,
all the while learning how to be contentin whatevercircumstances he was in
(Phil 4:11-13-note). Here we see that Paul would rejoice even if what
motivated their proclamationof Christ was a desire to attack him. Paul's
detractors preachedthe true Gospel, and it had an impact not because ofthe
petty messengerbut because of the powerful message forthe "Gospelis the
powerof God (not of wrongly motivated men) for salvationto everyone who
believes. (Ro 1:16-note)
A goodexample to emulate but remember don't try this in your own strength
but "allow yourselfto be continually strengthenedby the grace (sanctifying
powerto do supernaturally what I cannot do naturally) that is in Christ Jesus
(2 Ti 2:1-note)
As Paul explained you will come to learn the secretthat you "cando all things
through Him who (present tense = continually) strengthens your heart and
mind. (Philippians 4:13-note)
Paul wasn't concernedabouthimself because he knew he was expendable (cf
Php 2:3-4-note). He also knew that God was his covenantdefender and would

vindicate him in due time for He Himself has said"VENGEANCE IS MINE, I
WILL REPAY." (Ro 12:19-note). Paul was free to rejoice in the proclamation
of the Gospel, howeverbase the motives of those proclaiming Christ the Lord.
At least, they weren't preaching Buddha or some false god, but Christ.
Joy in the Letter to the Philippians - "joy" or "rejoice" occurs all4 chapters
7 uses of chairo = rejoice Phil. 1:18; Phil. 2:17; Phil. 2:18; Phil. 2:28; Phil.
3:1; Phil. 4:4; Phil. 4:10;
5 uses of chara = joy Phil. 1:4; Phil. 1:25; Phil. 2:2; Phil. 2:29; Phil. 4:1
2 uses of sugchairo = rejoice with Phil 2:17, 18
Paul lived to see the Gospelproclaimed--he didn't care who receivedthe
credit. That should be the attitude of every pastor, teacher, elder, deacon,
leader, and laypersonin the body of Christ. In all that he suffered Paul didn't
quit, lashout, break down, or lose his joy. That's because the cause ofChrist
was being furthered and His name proclaimed. The truth about Lord Jesus
was all he cared about. How could he manifest such an attitude? As alluded to
above, it is only possible by reliance on the One Who said
My grace (transforming power, powerto live a supernatural life) is sufficient
(enough) for you, for (My) power(inherent ability) is perfected (made
complete, brought to its intended goal)in (your) weakness(the way"up" in
Christianity is "down"!) (2Co 12:9-note, 2 Co 12:10-note)
Trials (chains) and slander (people seeking to cause us distress)cannot be
handled in our flesh (our flesh will respond defensively!), but only when we
are filled with (controlledby) the Spirit Who Alone can bring forth the fruit
of joy even in the most adverse conditions or awful people. Who are you

relying on today to give you the strength to forbear and bear up under when
treated unjustly especiallyif it's someone in your own church?
When faced with difficult circumstances rememberNehemiah's exhortation
"Do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." (Neh 8:10 and
the result Neh 8:12) (Torrey's Topic "Joy")
Bad circumstances increase(ormature) the joy of those who respond
biblically because these afflictions lead to a deeper trust in the sovereigntyof
Almighty God. Joy derived from circumstances is fleeting, but joy derived
from the Spirit of Christ is lasting. Paul refused to be downcastby the wrong
motives of some. Paul’s joy was not tied to his circumstances orhis critics but
was from the LORD (cf. Ps 4:7, 8; Ro 12:12 [note]; 2 Cor 6:10).
CHEERING THE ADVANCE OF THE CAUSE - Joe Stowell - One thing we
have to get over if we are going to honor Christ in our work is our competitive
spirit. The goalof serving Him is to advance His cause, notour reputation or
ministry.
One EasterSunday, a church acrosstowndecided to set a recordattendance
by having a “Friends Day” and throwing an Easteregg roll on their front
lawn for all the kids who came. To be candid, I felt a sense ofcompetition with
this particular church and was quietly critical of its approach to ministry.
What really bothered me was the factthat many of the friends their people
calledto invite to their service were members of our church. My heart was
reproved by Paul’s attitude in Philippians 1:18, where he spoke aboutothers
who were more successfulthan he, even though the motivation for their
ministry was competitive and less than pure.

A woman in our church came to me one Sunday evening in greatfrustration
as she blurted out, “Pastor, do you know how many they had at Temple
Baptist Church this morning? They had more than fifteen hundred there, and
many of them were our own people. I don’t think that’s right or fair, do you?”
It was a test of my motives. I wish I could always be this on target, but
thankfully the Word had done a remedial work on my carnalperspectives and
I found myself saying, “Are you telling me that more than fifteen hundred
people in our town heard the gospel of Jesus Christ this morning? Isn’t that
the bestnews you’ve heard in a long time?” She was stunned and verbally
backpedaledto “Well. . . well . . . yes, I guess it is.”
When our focus is on the glory of Christ and the gain of His kingdom, it
doesn’t make a whole lot of difference who facilitates the goal. If Jesus is lifted
up, our hearts should rejoice—unlesswe think our life and ministry are all
about us.
Are you a competitor with other Christians or a colleague in the cause?Do
you rejoice when they succeed? (Strengthfor the Journey)
ILLUSTRATION - A missionary in Africa writes: "I have dwelt four years
alone in Africa, have been thirty times strickenwith fever, have been attacked
by rhinoceri and lions, have been ambushed by natives, have eateneverything
from ants to rhinoceri, but I would gladly go through the same experience
againfor the joy of teaching these people to know the Saviour who gave His
life a ransomfor them."
What's Your Motive? (READ: 1 Corinthians 1:1-17) In every way, whether in
pretense or in truth, Christ is preached. --Philippians 1:18
Burt Gutras is a communications technician who fine-tunes aviation electronic
equipment. But his passionis volunteering for the Smith County Amateur
Radio EmergencyService (SCARES). He provides indispensable

communication when police are searching for missing persons. Burt's
comments reflecthis selflessness:"In the case ofmissing persons--andit
happens more often than people realize--we go out hoping that we canfind
them before something bad happens. Whether you find them yourself is not
important. The important thing is that they are found."
Is that our attitude towardlost sinners? Do we pray for other believers who
use different methods than ours to rescue the lost? Are we free from feelings
of rivalry or jealousy? Or are we so prejudiced in favor of our own rescue
team that we would rather have people remain alienatedfrom God than be
brought to Him through the efforts of others?
Paul expressedhis greatconcernover the competing factions he saw in the
body of Christ (1Cor. 1:11, 12, 13). He wanted the Corinthians to be united so
that the message ofthe cross of Christ could go out unhindered.
Let's ask the Holy Spirit to give us an unselfish attitude. Our motives should
be as pure as our goal. — Vernon C. Grounds (Our Daily Bread, Copyright
RBC Ministries, Grand Rapids, MI. Reprinted by permission. All rights
reserved)
Like a mighty army moves the church of God;
Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod.
We are not divided, all one body we--
One in hope and doctrine, one in charity.
-Baring-Gould

He who is not againstus is on our side. - Jesus (Luke 9:50)
Church Competition: Three churches, locatedon different corners of the
same intersection, didn't get along together. One Sunday eachof them opened
their meeting with a rousing song service. It was a warm day and all the doors
and windows were wide open. One congregationbegansinging the old hymn,
"Will There Be Any Stars in My Crown?" The strains had barely faded away
when the congregationacrossthe streetstarted singing, "No, NotOne, No,
Not One!" They had scarcelyfinished when the third church begansinging,
"Oh, That Will Be Glory for Me."
Of course, this is just a humorous story, but it reminds us that a spirit of
divisive competition does exist among some churches. Naturally, we will want
to support our own church, pray for it, and rejoice in its growth. But we must
never feel self-satisfiedorbe criticalof churches that have problems or are
not growing. If there is a place for "competition", let it be to oppose those who
deny scriptural fundamentals and the Gospel. But if a church is true to God's
Word and is winning people to Christ, regardless ofits label, let's rejoice.
That should be our attitude when facedwith the competitive motives of envy
and strife. Let's avoid church competition. - R De Haan (Our Daily Bread,
Copyright RBC Ministries, Grand Rapids, MI. Reprinted by permission. All
rights reserved)
Christ is made the sure Foundation,
Christ the Head and Cornerstone;
Chosenof the Lord and precious,
Binding all the church in one.
-- Neale

The fruit of Christian unity
grows out of our union with Christ
JACK ARNOLD
PAUL REJOICEDTHAT CHRIST IS BEING PREACHED (v. 18)
A. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way,
whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. -- Paul’s attitude
gives us insight as to what our attitude should be towards those Christians
who attack us or towards those Christian groups with which we disagree.
Paul did not respond by a vicious attack on these brethren, sending a scathing,
red-hot letter to every localchurch, naming by name eachpreacherin Rome
who took issue with him. These were brethren, not unbelievers; they were
saved, not lost. They were true Christians and he deals with them in love.
Paul dealt with the unbelieving, false teachers in Galatia in a harsh way, and
said of them, “Let them be accursed!” Yet, Paul does not corrector take on
these carnal preachers in Rome. Instead, he rejoices thatChrist is being
preachedand people are being saved.
NOTE: So often preachers and Christians begin to look at other Christians
and preachers and begin to wonderwhether their motives or methods are
right, so they start preaching againstthis movement and that movement, this
Christian and that Christian. They spend all their time attacking othersaints.
This causes disunity in the body of Christ; it gives the world ammunition to
criticize Christians and it uses up goodenergywhich should be used to preach
the gospel. We are told in Jude 3 to contend for the Faith but not to contend
with the faithful. God is the judge of motives and not men.

NOTE: Could Paul have said, “I thank God Christ is being preached” if one
of the preachers was JohnWesley, an Arminian, or Pat Robertson, a
charismatic? Paulsurely would not have agreedwith all they taught, but he
would have been thankful for the truth they did have about Christ and
salvation. NOTE: There will always be other Christians, other
denominations and para-church organizations who will not dot their “I’s” and
cross their “T’s” just like we Reformed people do. Yet, we can getexcited
that they are preaching Christ.
Frank Barker, pastorof BriarwoodPresbyterian
Church, tells a story on himself how he was all concernedabout a semi-liberal
who was seeing people savedin his church in spite of the preaching, through
home Bible studies. He did not agree with the theology, the method or the
material. Then Frank says he said to himself, “Finally, I began to realize that
God is far more concernedabout people being saved than He is about doing it
my wayor with a particular approach I use. Goddoesn’t mind some error
being mixed in with the truth nearly as much as I do! God is concernedthat
we have a humble approach. I always thought God would work in an
amazing way in a church where everything was done according to strict
orthodoxy. I was in just such a church one summer and it was dead…dead
orthodoxy. I am now of the opinion that alive heresyis preferable to dead
orthodoxy! We can become proud of our orthodoxy and that is one thing God
is not going to use! So, we can rejoice as Christ is being preachedeven though
there is various error mixed in.
B. And because of this I rejoice. -- Paul was determined not to be
pessimistic or critical but to rejoice in the fact that Christ was being preached
no matter what the poor motives, questionable methods and even shaky
messageofhis enemies might be. Paul was an optimist and believed God was
sovereignlyin control of the preaching of the gospel.

NOTE:Paul was not indifferent to the errors of the carnalpreachers but he
was more concernedthat the gospelwas preached. Paulwas too busy
positively preaching Christ to getinto negative debates and disputes with
other Christian ministers.
NOTE:God is very concernedabout our attitude. If others do not use the
same methods we do or strictly adhere to our systemof doctrine, we should
not getall bent out of shape. We canrejoice that Christ is being preached.
We don’t have to accepttheir systemof theology but we canrejoice that
Christ is being proclaimed. NOTE: The real question is are we proclaiming
Christ to men? Do we have some method of making Christ known to others?
Quite often we Reformedpeople look upon ourselves as the doctrinal
conscienceofthe universal church and we are quite critical of other’s doctrine
and method, especiallyin the area of evangelism. Yet, many Reformed people
are not evangelizing, and the freewill camp puts us to shame when it comes to
zeal for reaching the lost.
I am reminded of a statement made by D. L.
Moody. Someone told him they did not like his method of sharing the Gospel
and he askedwhat method they used. They admitted to not having one.
Moody then said, “Well, now, I like the one I use better than the one you don’t
use.”
WILLIAM BARCLAY
THE ALL-IMPORTANT PROCLAMATION (Philippians 1:15-18)

1:15-18 Some in their preaching of Christ are actuatedby envy and strife;
some by goodwill. The one preachfrom love, because they know that I am
lying here for the defence of the gospel;the other proclaim Christ for their
own partisan purposes, not with pure motives, but thinking to make my bonds
gall me all the more. What then? The only result is that in every way, whether
as a cloak for other purposes, or whether in truth, Christ is proclaimed. And
in this I rejoice--yes, andI will rejoice.
Here indeed the greatheart of Paul is speaking. His imprisonment has been
an incentive to preaching. That incentive workedin two ways. There were
those who loved him; and, when they saw him lying in prison, they redoubled
their efforts to spreadthe gospel, so that it would lose nothing because of
Paul's imprisonment. They knew that the bestway to delight his heart was to
see that the work did not suffer because ofhis unavoidable absence.But
others were moved by what Paul calls eritheia (Greek #2052)andpreached
for their ownpartisan motives. Eritheia (Greek #2052)is an interesting word.
Originally it simply meant working for pay. But the man who works solelyfor
pay works from a low motive. He is out solely to benefit himself. The word,
therefore, came to describe a careerist, out for office to magnify himself; and
so it came to be connectedwith politics and to mean canvassing foroffice. It
came to describe self-seeking andselfish ambition, which was out to advance
itself and did not care to what methods it stoopedto attain its ends. So there
were those who preachedthe harder now that Paul was in prison, for his
imprisonment seemedto presentthem with a heaven-sentopportunity to
advance their own influence and prestige and lessenhis.
There is a lessonforus here. Paul knew nothing of personaljealousyor of
personalresentment. So long as Jesus Christ was preached, he did not care
who receivedthe credit and the prestige. He did not care what other
preachers saidabout him, or how unfriendly they were to him, or how
contemptuous they were of him, or how they tried to steala march upon him.
All that mattered was that Christ was preached. All too often we resent it

when someone else gains a prominence or a credit which we do not. All too
often we regarda man as an enemy because he has expressedsome criticism
of us or of our methods. All too often we think a man can do no goodbecause
he does not do things in our way. All too often the intellectuals have no truck
with the evangelicals, andthe evangelicalsimpugn the faith of the
intellectuals. All too often those who believe in the evangelismof education
have no use for the evangelismof decision, and those who practise the
evangelismof decisionhave no use for those who feelthat some other
approachwill have more lasting effects. Paulis the greatexample. He lifted
the matter beyond all personalities;all that mattered was that Christ was
preached.
ALBERT BARNES
Verse 18
What then? - What follows from this? What effectdoes it have on my mind?
Does the factthat some preach from a spirit of envy and contention give me
pain?
Notwithstanding every way - No matter in what way it is done. We are not to
suppose, however, that Paul was indifferent as to the way in which the gospel
was preached, or the spirit with which it was done; but the meaning is, that it
was a matter of rejoicing that it was done at all, whateverthe motives might
be.
Whether in pretence or in truth - Whether as a mere pretext to coverup some
other design, or from pure motives. Their pretence was that they preached the

gospelbecause theybelieved it true and loved it; their realobject was to build
up a party, and to diminish the influence and authority of Paul.
Christ is preached- They made known the name of the Saviour, and
announced that the Messiahhad come. They could not go forth under any
pretence as preachers, without making known some truth about the
Redeemer. So now, it is hardly possible that any persons should attempt to
preach, without stating some truth that would not otherwise be known. The
name of a Saviour will be announced, and that will be something. Some views
of his life and work will be presented, which, though they may be far enough
from full views, are yet better than none. Though there may be much error in
what is said, yet there will be also some truth. It would be better to have
preachers that were better instructed, or that were more prudent, or that had
purer motives, or that held a more perfect system, yet it is much in our world
to have the name of the Redeemerannouncedin any way, and even to be told,
in the most stammering manner, and from whatever motives, that man has a
Saviour. The announcement of that fact in any way may save a soul; but
ignorance of it could save none.
And I therein do rejoice - This is an instance of greatmagnanimity on the part
of Paul, and nothing, perhaps, could better show his supreme love for the
Saviour. Paul preachedto increase his afflictions, and the tendency of that
preaching was, probably, as it was designedto be, to unsettle confidence in
him, and to lessenhis influence. Yet this did not move him. The more
important matter was secured, and Christ was made known; and if this were
secured, he was willing that his own name should be castinto the shade. This
may furnish valuable lessons to preachers ofthe gospelnow:
(1) When we are laid aside from preaching by sickness, we should rejoice that
others are in health, and are able to make the Saviour known, though we are
forgotten.

(2) when we are unpopular and unsuccessful, we should rejoice that others are
more popular and successful - for Christ is preached.
(3) when we have rivals, who have better plans than we for doing good, and
whose labors are crowned with success,we should not be envious or jealous -
for Christ is preached.
(4) when ministers of other denominations preach what we regardas error,
and their preaching becomes popular, and is attended with success, we can
find occasionto rejoice - for they preach Christ.
In the error we should not, we cannotrejoice;but in the factthat the great
truth is held up that Christ died for people, we can always find abundant
occasionfor joy. Mingled as it may be with error, it may be nevertheless the
means of saving souls, and though we should rejoice more if the truth were
preachedwithout any admixture of error, yet still the very fact that Christ is
made known lays the foundation for gratitude and rejoicing. If all Christians
and Christian ministers had the feelings which Paul expresses here, there
would be much less envy and uncharitableness than there is now in the
churches. May we not hope that the time will yet come when all who preach
the gospelwill have such supreme regard for the name and work of the
Saviour, that they will find sincere joy in the successofa rival denomination,
or a rival preacher, or in rival plans for doing good? Then, indeed,
contentions would cease, andthe hearts of Christians, “like kindred drops,”
would mingle into one.

Jesus was preached and paul rejoiced

Jesus was preached and paul rejoiced

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