But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. — Philippians 1:17
In contrast to the contentious preachers, others preached Christ out of love. They understood Paul’s calling. They knew he was set for the defence of the Gospel. They did not see him as a rival, but as a fellow soldier. They did not compete with him; they stood with him.
Love always changes the spirit of ministry. Love rejoices when Christ is exalted. Love does not need to be first. Love does not measure itself against another servant. Love simply wants God’s work to prosper.
These believers understood that Paul’s imprisonment was not an accident. He was set for the defence of the Gospel. God had stationed him where he was. Even in chains, he had an assignment. That realization gave them perspective. They saw Paul’s suffering not as wasted pain, but as purposeful ministry.
In contrast to the contentious preachers, others preached Christ out of love. They understood Paul’s calling. They knew he was set for the defence of the Gospel. They did not see him as a rival, but as a fellow soldier. They did not compete with him; they stood with him.
Love always changes the spirit of ministry. Love rejoices when Christ is exalted. Love does not need to be first. Love does not measure itself against another servant. Love simply wants God’s work to prosper.
These believers understood that Paul’s imprisonment was not an accident. He was set for the defence of the Gospel. God had stationed him where he was. Even in chains, he had an assignment. That realization gave them perspective. They saw Paul’s suffering not as wasted pain, but as purposeful ministry.