January 25, 2025 -- Philippians 1:15-18a -- Examining the Motives underlying good deeds

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Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love knowing that I am put here for the defense of the Gospel. The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I will rejoice.
Philippians 1:15-18a ESV
 
Yesterday I met with a man who I am mentoring. We were just sitting down to lunch, when unexpectedly he began reciting the first six verses of Philippians. I was so surprised. So pleased. So grateful to God that he’d taken up the challenge of memorization and there in a public restaurant so easily and correctly recited those verses. I think he was amazed himself, that he could do and he could recite it in front of me (he can find me intimidating). Dear readers, keep at it, even a word a day will get you 365 words further into memorizing the Bible.
 
Today’s passage is strange. Are the others who are preaching Jesus false teachers? Again, like yesterday, I deeply appreciate Sinclair Ferguson’s take on this.
     It is possible to preach the gospel with false motives, just as it seems
     possible to ‘prophesy’ and ‘cast out demons and do mighty works’ in
     Jesus’ name from false motives (Matt. 7:22). Perhaps, for example,
     some were preaching in the hope that they would be able to usurp
     Paul’s authority and gain positions of influence in the church in his
     absence.
     Sinclair Ferguson. Let’s Study Philippians. 2010 reprint. page 22.
 
A passage like this one requires the believer to examine his own heart. What are your motives for serving Jesus? For giving to the church? For correcting other believers? Surely it is true that Christians spend time thinking about their sinful impulses and temptations. I wonder how often you (and I) examine our good deeds? It is clear Christians can act in the right ways for all the wrong reasons.
 
Father in heaven, let Your Spirit light the lamp of the Word and search my heart so that all my activities but also their underlying motives will be exposed and all that is wrong be rooted out by confession. Thank You for the reconciling work of Jesus, through Whom whatever is exposed and confessed is also already atoned for and therefore adds to the great store of reasons I have to bring thanks and praises to You, The Triune God of glory. Amen.
 
https://youtu.be/c8K2V9xXVW8?si=pcSOQGV4XSV_zzbP Abide with Me
 

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