God Began a Good Work and Will Finish It, Ron Ward
CHRIST IS PREACHED
Passage: Philippians 1:12~18  
Key verse: 18
Paul’s Chains Advance the Gospel
12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters,[a] that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard[b] and to everyone else that I am in chains(A) for Christ. 14 And because of my chains,(B) most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.(C)
15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.(D) 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition,(E) not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.(F) 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,
Footnotes
- Philippians 1:12 The Greek word for brothers and sisters (adelphoi) refers here to believers, both men and women, as part of God’s family; also in verse 14; and in 3:1, 13, 17; 4:1, 8, 21.
- Philippians 1:13 Or whole palace
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Source:  BibleGateway
Paul's great desire to preach the gospel in Rome had been fulfilled-but in a strange way. He was sent to Rome in chains as a prisoner to stand trial before Caesar. He boldly preached Christ to the palace guards. They could see Christ's love shining from his life. More than this, other Christians became bold in sharing their faith in Christ, encouraged by Paul's courage and joy.
2. In every way Christ is preached (15-18a)
Satan tried to stop Christ from being preached through Paul's imprisonment. But instead Christ was preached even more-some out of envy and rivalry with Paul, and others to support him. Paul simply rejoiced that Christ was preached! We need this mature attitude.
Prayer: Lord, help me to rejoice that Christ is preached rather than being discouraged by Satan or others' motives.
One Word: Rejoice that Christ is preached!