stephen R Harrison

(Read Philippians 1:13-14)

While on a vision trip in India with missionaries, I heard several stories of persecution from Indian believers for sharing the gospel.  Some had been arrested, beaten, lost employment, and even ousted by their families.  I heard one report of a husband setting his wife on fire because she turned to Christ. We ate breakfast with believers in their homes one morning and then traveled to a village to experience training local church planters. They willingly risked their safety and livelihood for us to worship with them. Apparently, persecution wouldn’t stop them from sharing the gospel and starting house churches. They were unashamed and empowered by the Spirit – the unstoppable church!

In Philippians 1:13-14, Paul said his persecution caused the gospel to advance. It was visible to everyone, including the palace guard, that he was in chains for Christ. He was in chains for preaching Christ. There is a difference between being in chains for Christ and in chains for preaching Christ. He was a prisoner of Jesus, not just Rome. His imprisonment was bigger than facing the consequences of the Roman government for breaking the law. Paul saw it as part of his calling and mission. It was his honor to serve time in prison. He was in chains for preaching Christ, but he was not in bondage. His attitude and actions displayed that he was glad to be in prison for Jesus. Suffering for Christ was a badge of honor, not a rap sheet of disgrace. He was a prisoner for Christ (Ephesians 3:1). He knew it, but now it had become apparent to everyone around him! Paul shared the gospel with many people along the way, but he had to opportunity to share it with the emperor’s bodyguards. Imagine the talk of the jailhouse – the gospel! This was the summit of Paul’s gospel endeavors.

Persecution fueled the advancement of the early church. Paul’s perspective of his predicament caused other brothers and sisters to “dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear” (Philippians 1:14). Boldly sharing Christ without fear of consequence spreads like wildfire and is highly effective. 

What does Paul’s experience teach us?  Share Christ wherever you go and whatever you go through. If you are admitted to the hospital, share the gospel with the doctors, nurses, and patients. Whatever platform you have, see it as God-ordained, Spirit-led, and Jesus-commissioned! It will encourage others to do the same!

Questions for the Head (Think)

• Do you see dire circumstances as fuel for evangelistic fire? If people noticed your life during difficulties, would it be clear you are in chains for Christ or only in chains?

Reflection for the Heart (Worship)

• Reflect on how you can glorify God and share Jesus the most when difficulties arise.  Ask God to open your eyes and heart to use these moments to multiply gospel exposure.

Action for the Hands (Do)

• Pray for and encourage those persecuted for their faith.  Does their persecution increase your desire to share the gospel?