Chapter 7 Phillipians; Paul Gets Personal!

Mark continued with his in-depth study of Philippians. This week, Paul gets personal in explaining his perspective in Philippians 1:20-26. “For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Three concepts are evident in this verse. 1. To live or to die - The center of Paul’s life is Christ, who is his life’s purpose. Everything is Christ. Paul explains his reasoning further in Philippians 3:4-10. 2. The tough dilemma - Paul doesn’t earn Christ but gains Him. Paul is surrounded by stress; what is better for him and what is better for the Philippians. 3. The decision - Paul will remain and continue the work contending for the Gospel with the Philippians. Mark explains a meaning of J.O.Y. that fits this passage: Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself last.