Twin City church of Christ Blog
“Nov 6, 2024 - Far Better”
Categories: 2024 Reading DevotionalsFar Better
Reading: Philippians 1:19-30
As Paul languishes in Roman custody, he muses on his fate. He is confident that “through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance”(Phil 1:19), yet he remains aware that other outcomes are possible. He shows remarkable poise, given the stakes, when he matter-of-factly discusses the possibility of his death. “It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death”(Phil 1:20). Whether he lives or dies, he only wants his life and body to show his devotion to Jesus. This is not a new perspective for Paul as he stands near death; it is the same “now as always.”
Yet which outcome does he prefer? What does he root for? “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account”(Phil 1:21-24). Paul speaks as though this is his choice and he sees that both outcomes have their advantages. Continuing to live “is Christ” because he will keep serving Jesus by teaching and helping other disciples. But dying is “gain.” Why? “My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better”(Phil 1:23). As sweet as life can be, Paul would rather be with Jesus. Regardless of the outcome, he wants the Philippians to “(stand) firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel”(Phil 1:27) despite opposition and challenge.
Departing to be with Christ will mean that we miss countless sports championships, elections, TV shows, and the enjoyment of the nest egg we’ve been saving up. As much as we love our families, friends, brethren, and work, the day will come when we will depart to be with Christ. Do I really believe that will be “far better”?
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One Thing to Think About: Am I too attached to this present world?
One Thing to Pray For: The selfless heart of Paul
