Persecution takes on many shapes and shades. One of them is to be ridiculed and opposed by those closest to us.
Here are some of Paul’s purposes, wishes and hopes while he is suffering
in jail as a result of preaching the good news of Jesus Christ.
Why should you and I consider these? So that we may grasp and take on board some aspects of
what it means to stand firm in the faith and not to be frightened and run away
when it’s our turn to undergo persecution for Christ.
1.
Paul knows that his sufferings will turn out for his deliverance.
2.
Paul enthusiastically expects and hopes that he will not be ashamed or
embarrassed at all, but that he will be brave enough, courageous enough so
that Christ will be exalted in his body, by life or by death.
3.
He believes and is optimistic that he will see results for his labour.
4.
His sufferings are with others in mind: their progress and their joy
in the faith.
Philippians 1:18-26
