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22But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.
23For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
24Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.
25And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;
26That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.
27Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
28And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.
29For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;
30Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.
Also 1 Corinthians 3:8-9 · 2 Timothy 4:6 · Ephesians 4:11 · 1 Corinthians 9:16 · Ephesians 2:8-11 · Acts 2:46 · 1 Peter 5:8-9
In this sermon, the message explores Paul’s unwavering confidence in Christ, even amidst suffering and challenges. It highlights his desire to depart and be with Christ, which he considered ‘far better,’ but also his commitment to remain on Earth for the furtherance and joy of the believers’ faith. Paul’s confidence was rooted in his understanding that God was at work, using him to preach the Gospel and minister to both the lost and the saved, fulfilling a divine purpose for his life. This message further delves into Paul’s confidence in fruitful labor, emphasizing that his ‘business’ was God’s business. It underscores the importance of the work God calls individuals to do, viewing it as a divinely ordained purpose with an assured reward in heaven. The sermon encourages believers to labor faithfully, knowing that God uses His people to minister to one another and to reach the lost, reflecting a proper conduct and lifestyle that aligns with being a Christian. Finally, the message covers Paul’s counsel regarding adversity and the importance of not fearing adversaries. It reminds listeners that suffering and persecution are part of the Christian life, but through it all, believers should remain steadfast, vigilant, and trust in God’s promises. The overarching theme is one of spiritual maturity and commitment, urging unity in spirit, mind, and faith, centered on the Gospel and the will of God, to continually grow and bring glory to the Lord Jesus Christ.