Gospel Ambition
PHILIPPIANS 1:19-26
This passage shifts the focus from the insincere hearts of certain preachers in Rome to the earnest outpouring of Paul’s heart in prison. He discloses two great ambitions that seem to be at odds but actually spur the other on. More than anything, he’s desires to depart and be with Jesus. He wants to reach the finish line of life. Yet, he also wants to get out of jail, go back to the Philippians, and give himself to their progress in the race. He’s hard pressed between the two. But, as he opens up a window into his heart, we see that his ambition to go and be with Jesus, fuels his ambition to stay and build something for Jesus. Having been freed from the fear of death and ready for his reward, he’s ready to run as hard as possible to the very last second of his life on earth.