“The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.”
Philippians 1:18
We may wonder how Paul can say in his letter to the Philippians that he rejoices even when his rivals preach the gospel from false motives. I believe the story of Ben Comen from the early 2000s shines some light on it.
Comen, a young man with cerebral palsy, ran cross-country knowing that he would most likely fall in every race and finish in last place every time. Comen explained, “My goal is to cross the finish line no matter what.” Interestingly, many of his fellow runners would come back to cheer him on and run with him to the end. His mark of success was to simply complete the race he started, trusting it would inspire others to follow him.
Likewise, Paul’s mission in life was not to be the first, or the greatest. He had already lived a life of trying to perform and keep the law perfectly. His mission now was to point others to Christ. His success was in glorifying God and being an instrument of His grace. Whatever the cost, his only aim was that the gospel would go out. If spreading the gospel is our aim too, God will accomplish it.
Comen, a young man with cerebral palsy, ran cross-country knowing that he would most likely fall in every race and finish in last place every time. Comen explained, “My goal is to cross the finish line no matter what.” Interestingly, many of his fellow runners would come back to cheer him on and run with him to the end. His mark of success was to simply complete the race he started, trusting it would inspire others to follow him.
Likewise, Paul’s mission in life was not to be the first, or the greatest. He had already lived a life of trying to perform and keep the law perfectly. His mission now was to point others to Christ. His success was in glorifying God and being an instrument of His grace. Whatever the cost, his only aim was that the gospel would go out. If spreading the gospel is our aim too, God will accomplish it.
Scripture Focus
Philippians 1:12-18
Insight
“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14)
Bible In A Year
- 2 Kings 17
- Proverbs 19
- 1 John 3-4