Philippians 1:17b – The Human Herald

Paul, writing about spiritual forces. (Grok)

… not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 

Summary: Looking at Paul’s letter from a human perspective reveals a Paul who is, like us, an imperfect vessel. 

As you no doubt remember from our last meditation, Paul is talking about the people who preach Christ for unchristian reasons. So far, Paul has mentioned that they are motivated by “envy and rivalry” (Verse 15) and “selfish ambition” (Verse 17a). In this passage, he adds that they hope to “stir up trouble” for him while he is in prison. 

Who would do such a thing, and why?

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Philippians 1:17a – Pineapple on Pizza

A slice of Canadian Bacon and pineapple pizza (Pixabay)

The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition…

Summary: This passage provides us with an opportunity to explore the nature of sin and its impact on sharing the Gospel with others. 

How should we understand Paul’s words in this passage? I know that they sound straightforward, but are they? Let’s examine them more closely.

He writes, “The former (those who  preach Christ out of envy and rivalry) preach Christ out of selfish ambition…”

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