Scripture

Philippians 1:18 (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 of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,

Observation

I find Paul’s take on the reasons behind people preaching the gospel while he’s a prisoner interesting because it reveals something that we may forget as Believers. God’s word doesn’t return to Him void. It will accomplish what He set out for it to accomplish (Isaiah 55:11). Too often we credit humans with the power of God. We look to those who preach and teach the word as somehow being special and different from those who do not. Indeed, those who are called by God to preach and teach His word are anointed by Him to do so. However, it isn’t the effectiveness of the preacher or teacher that changes hearts and minds. It is the word of God.

Our motives are important to God but they don’t change the power of His word. Surely, we will all be called to account for everything we do, good or bad when we die (2 Corinthians 5:10). Therefore, we need to examine ourselves and the reasons why we do the things we do (2 Corinthians 13:5). While only God knows our hearts it is still important as Believers to live a life that is holy and pleasing to God. To be above reproach because people do see the things that we do and hear the words that come out of our mouths. A couple of verses come to mind:

As it is written: “God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.” Romans 2:24 (NIV)

When people see a self-professed Christian behaving in a worldly manner then it can be damaging to how they see God. Remember, you are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14) but light reveals the good as well as the bad.

As dead flies give perfume a bad smell, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor. Ecclesiastes 10:1 (NIV)

You can try and do everything right and good in your life but all it takes to ruin your character is doing one foolish thing that everyone finds out about. Sometimes we may be tempted to do something that is a “little bit” wrong thinking that all of the good we have done outweighs it. It doesn’t, so don’t do it.

Everyone who is a Christian is a servant of God and has been called to preach the good news to those who have not heard it (Matthew 28:19-20).

How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 1014:-15 NIV)

My friends, this word is to you and me. There are people all around you, wherever you live, that have heard of “God” but don’t know Him. How can these people, who are lost and dying in their sins, call out to Him if they do not believe? People believe all sorts about God without knowing Him. If you know Him and what He’s done for you then certainly you can tell them your testimony and let God do the saving.

Would you like to be saved from the fear of death? Knowing that when you die you will be in an eternity filled with love, joy, and peace where there is no longer pain and suffering? Would you like to walk free of guilt today? To have your sins forgiven by the grace of God and to know true peace, here and now?

Pray this prayer with me to accept the gift of salvation today:

Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior. Amen.

If you prayed that prayer then congratulations! You are on the first step of a brand new life. Allow me to be the first to welcome you to my family, the family of God. There are abundant resources available online for new Christians. You can visit here for more information on what to do next. You can also leave me a comment and I’ll do my best to help you on the next step of this incredible journey.

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