Philippians 1:29 | Pastor Jerry A. Burns
For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; — Philippians 1:29
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This verse teaches something many believers would rather avoid: suffering for Christ is not merely an accident of the Christian life, but a gift granted in the behalf of Christ.
Paul says it is given to believers not only to believe on Christ, but also to suffer for His sake. Faith itself is a gift of God’s grace, and so is the privilege of suffering for the One who saved us. That does not mean suffering is pleasant, but it does mean it is purposeful and honorable when endured for Christ.
We often rejoice in the gift of salvation, and rightly so. But here Paul says there is another grace given to the believer: the privilege of bearing reproach for Jesus’ name. Compare Acts 5:41, where the apostles rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.
This verse also reminds us that you generally will not suffer for Christ if you are never living openly for Christ. If our lives are hidden, our witness muted, and our convictions silent, we may avoid certain conflicts. But those who stand for the Gospel should not be surprised when suffering follows.
It is good for those under the same trial, or infirmity of body or mind, to join in prayer to God for relief, that they may quicken and encourage one another. There is mercy enough in Christ for all that ask. They were earnest in prayer. They cried out as men in earnest. Cold desires beg denials. They were humble in prayer, casting themselves upon, and referring themselves cheerfully to, the Mediator's mercy. They showed faith in prayer, by the title they gave to Christ. Surely it
was by the Holy Ghost that they called Jesus, Lord. They persevered in prayer. When they were in pursuit of such mercy, it was no time for timidity or hesitation: they cried earnestly. Christ encouraged them. The wants and burdens of the body we are soon sensible of, and can readily relate. Oh that we did as feelingly complain of our spiritual maladies, especially our spiritual blindness! Many are spiritually blind, yet say they see. Jesus cured these blind men; and when they had received
sight, they followed him. None follow Christ blindly. He first by his grace opens men's eyes, and so draws their hearts after him. These miracles are our call to Jesus; may we hear it, and make it our daily prayer to grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.