Reading
SAA Notes
Philippi was in the midst of a church fight over who would be top dog. What is Paul’s particular prayer for this congregation in verses 3-6? Notice he assures them of his love and of his sufferings for Christ. Suffering gives Paul the added edge for being heard and listened to.
SJA Notes
* Dear God, You are holy and righteous, the one true God – We praise Your Name!
“What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice.”
Paul cuts to the heart of the matter – People were preaching Jesus, some in love, some in envy and rivalry.
Regardless of how that made Paul feel, he says “what of it?”
The heart of the matter is this – that Jesus is preached!
Paul isn’t saying those preaching in envy and rivalry are doing the right thing, he is not siding with them, and certainly he has a hard word for people who stir up trouble in the church.
But Paul is saying – there is something greater here that we can hold onto, aside from personal hurt and politicking.
Jesus.
He is the something greater.
And hallelujah for that!
* Mighty God,
Please help us to preach Jesus through our day, in thought and word and deed.
And please Lord, be with those of Your servants who are set apart for the preaching of the Word and the sacraments, for the pastoring of the flock. Protect them as they go about the work You have for them.
Thank You that You build Your church Lord God.
Amen.