I Got gains
Water cooler conversation:
What was your biggest win this week? What was your biggest challenge?
Would you rather know the date you are going to die or know how you are going to die?
Unpack the Message:
The Book of Philippians is one of the four Prison Epistles written by the apostle Paul. Of the four, this is the most personal and intimate of the letters. Paul’s affection for the Philippian believers is evident throughout as he encourages them to live out their faith in joy and unity (Philippians 1:3–5, 25–26; 4:1). Paul is awaiting his sentence, unsure whether he will remain in prison or be sentenced to death.
Knowing Paul’s circumstances makes his vulnerability in Philippians 1:21 even more powerful. In stating “For to me,” he wants the believers at Philippi to understand his faith is deeply personal. When Paul says, “For to me to live is Christ,” he’s emphasizing that every decision he makes, every action he takes, comes from a place of prioritizing Christ. As he sits in prison, awaiting his fate, Paul knows that a passionate pursuit of Christ will be what defines his life. Because of his faith, even in prison, Paul is free (John10:10).
Paul concludes verse 21 with the words, “For to me to live is Christ, to die is gain.” As Christ-followers, our lives are meant to be so much bigger than what we do for a living. God doesn’t want you to find a career — He wants you to find a calling so that your life isn’t limited by your label. In Romans 8:28, we are promised that God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose, and likewise in Proverbs 19:21, we are reminded that the Lord’s purpose will prevail. No matter what circumstances we find ourselves in, we will succeed if we are committed to His purpose.
No matter how his story ended, Paul knew the ultimate outcome. Jesus conquered death at Calvary, so Paul could boldly say, “Alive, I’m Christ’s messenger; dead, I’m his prize. Life versus even more life! I can’t lose.” (Philippians 1:21 MSG)
Apart from Christ, death is taken at face value - it’s an end. But in Christ, death can be purposeful and can become again. Death is the process by which we become more like Christ. Death is part of the sanctification process. Paul understood what it meant to die to self, to old ways, to the systems you are born into. Before his encounter on the road to Damascus, Paul—then called Saul—persecuted Jesus’ followers (Acts 9; 22; 26). This encounter with Jesus transformed Saul but only through the death of his old self. 2 Corinthians 5:17 promises that if we are in Christ, we are made new; the things that defined us no longer matter. His ways become our ways, and our plans and aspirations are replaced with His higher calling. Salvation moves us from darkness to light and from death to life (Galatians 2:20).
What does Paul mean when he says “to live is Christ”?
Despite his circumstances, Paul’s heart was joyful. Where do you find joy in the midst of trials?
In his seminal work Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis states, “If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world.” How should that statement shape how we, as believers in Christ, approach every goal we set?
What keeps you (if anything) from longing to be with God in heaven? Read Revelation 21:1-4, 9-14, 18-21.
What are Paul’s considerations in choosing between life and death? Read Philippians 1:21-26.
How is sanctification different from salvation? How are the two inter-connected?
If you were in Paul’s position being wrongfully imprisoned, what would you write to your family/friends/brothers/sisters in Christ?
Is there anything in this world that makes you hope Jesus will come back later to allow you more time on earth?
What difference has your faith in Christ made in your attitude toward death?
Given your priorities and schedule this week, how would you fill in the blanks - “For to me, to live is ____ and to die is ____.” What would you need to change to make it Christ?
What is something that you would like to accomplish before you die? How can Christ be exalted in that goal/accomplishment?
Make a Move:
Are you afraid of death, or do you have the same calm assurance Paul had that to die is gain? Talk to one of our pastors today and learn why Paul could be joyful in prison, awaiting his sentence yet facing death unafraid.
Prayer Prompt:
Thank you, Jesus, that in You we have a new life through Your sacrifice at Calvary. Thank you for the promise of Romans 8:28 that no matter our circumstances or struggles, You work all things for our good. As I continue to serve you, I pray that You fill me with Your peace and Your power so that my life is one that both honors You and draws others into a relationship with You.
In Your powerful name, I pray, Amen.