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Paul's Chains Advance the Gospel 12Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel.13As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.14Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.15It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill.16The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.17The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.18But 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,19for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. 20I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 21For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.22If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know!23I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;24but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.25Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,26so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.27Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel28without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved–and that by God.29For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him,30since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.
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LeapOfFaaaith - (eBible Scholar) about 1 year ago.
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This is how we should expect - expect it of God - not for our self serving (self actualizing) interests - but let God be re-presented to the world through our life and our death.
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James3  - (eBible Novice) about 1 year ago.
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i like this verse
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Karebear - (eBible Enthusiast) about 1 year ago.
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You may say, "I'm a believer. I know God's promises. I have all the hope I need." Hope comes when you take God's promises, keep them before you eyes and ears until they begin to build an image inside of you. Hope comes when you begin to see yourself WITH what God has promised you - instead of seeing yourself WITHOUT it.
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Carla - (eBible Novice) about 1 year ago.
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Earlier in this passage it talks about Paul in chains. I have chains that hold me down, hold me back. They are emotional chians. Things have happened to me that I had no control over, bad things. They have made me fearful. But, I claim Christ, he has a plan, he will make my life a reward, nothing for me to be ashamed of, one that will be all gain! Christ will walk with me, he will make me strong in weakness. He will hold the fearful child in me, when I can't hold her in any more. Lord make me strong, give me courage, that I might do your work, and find great joy in it. Lord, "use even me."
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