Paul begins this letter to the Philippians by stating that he thanks God every time he thinks of them. He's overjoyed that they teach the gospel with such vigor. He's just so... excited. He prays that their love will abound more and more. He prays this so that the church will be able to discern what is pure, righteous, and most glorifying to God.
Wow, what a nice guy! I bet the first time the Philippians read this, they felt nice and warm inside. I mean, if Paul says you're legit, you're definitely legit.
But then, Paul says "Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel." He goes on to say that his presence in prison has influenced other prisoners and prison guards to profess Christ. Because of Paul's continued proclamation of the gospel (while in chains), others were empowered to not only believe, but proclaim without fear as well.
He recognizes that some proclaim with ill-minded intentions and some with great intentions. He doesn't care. The gospel is being furthered either way.
He makes a statement that he wouldn't mind dying. The whole "to die is gain" thing is almost a tad eerie. Death is such a scary thing. Yet, he mentions it as if deciding to swing through the drive through at McDonald's. He is definitely not afraid of death. He recognizes that dying really means unity with Christ.
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Paul is just odd and awesome all at the same time. He's confusing at times and seemingly contradictory. He's idiotically passionate. This dude is about as "one of a kind" as they come. Former 'christian-killer' to ... Christian. When I read that he was bound by chains in prison, I thought I'd misread. The chapter starts off so upbeat that I thought I'd missed something. I just couldn't fathom how someone sitting in prison (and prison in those days was TERRIBLE) could sound so upbeat about someone else's good work.
The first part of this chapter is great for reminding me about what's important. I get wrapped up in my own little bubble and forget why I was ever created. I forget that God is probably using me in ways that I don't see. I forget that God loves me - immeasureably - and will always love me. I forget what crazy depravity I'm saved from. I take the first opportunity to complain about what's 'so bad' about my life. Paul doesn't do this - he does the opposite. He does the opposite because he gets the big picture. He knows why he's there.
The thing about Paul is he had it all. He had high social status and probably some wealth. He was a religious leader. He was more than likely revered by his community.
He must have gone crazy.
..or
He must really be onto something. He chose a life on the road, less social status, negligible income, little social consistency, and food insecurity. These are all the things most people (myself included) value most.
He's got an unwavering vision of the meaning of life with his eyes fixed on the end. He wants to further the kingdom of God. That's it. He wants to bring glory to the name of Jesus. That's it. Paul has immovable focus.
Maybe he's crazy. Maybe he's chasing some kind of 'God-high.' Maybe he likes to travel. Maybe he likes being beaten (doubtful)? Maybe....
Maybe Paul just gets it. Since Paul was raised to be a religious leader, he no doubt, has the Torah (first five books of the bible) memorized. He understands the wrath of God. He understands the depravity of mankind. Lastly, he understands what kind of Love God must have; to let his Son be murdered in the most brutal way possible - for sinful people. I think Paul just is just overwhelmed by a God who would do that. I think he's overwhelmed to the point of choosing:
Life on the road, less social status, negligible income, little social consistency, and food insecurity.
The end goal must make the journey worth every step.
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