Paul’s house arrest meant that the good news became more widely known. He had a captive audience (v 13). He points out to the Philippians at least one other good thing that has happened (v 14). He even turns something potentially displeasing into a blessing. 

He brushes off suspiciously motivated preachers (vs 15–18). He doesn’t see them as serious opposition like those referred to later in the letter. Instead, he adopts Jesus’ attitude in Mark 9:38–41: ‘Whoever is not against us is for us.’ What matters is that people hear about Jesus. Being united in Christ mattered to Paul. He emphasises this throughout his letter. 

There are many Christian groupings throughout the wider church. Some revolve around a personality or history, a particular doctrine or emphasis, or a desire to reach a geographical area or section of society. Many result from a fall-out. Paul drew attention to what all Christians hold in common. Together we preach Christ crucified (1 Corinthians 1:23). It is the role of the Holy Spirit to then convict people of their need for God’s forgiveness and love. Tertullian, the early church father, told how pagans commented on Christians’ behaviour: ‘See how they love one another.’

Lord Jesus, thank you that you embody what it means to live a generous life. Thank you for giving everything for me on the cross. 

Paul is in chains simply because of his commitment to preach the gospel. Almost certainly he is in Rome: his reference to the ‘whole palace guard’ (v 13), the praetorian guard, is to the elite soldiers stationed in Rome. It is quite possible that Paul’s imprisonment at the heart of this powerful empire will end in execution (cf vs 19–21). He is in grave danger. 

In this situation, how does Paul pray? I know how I would pray: fervently to be released! Not Paul, though. He rejoices in a new freedom that others are already experiencing, namely a greater liberty in gospel preaching (v 14). He does this even though some preach to ‘stir up’ trouble for him (v 17). Their actions could plunge him into even deeper difficulty, yet such is his passion for Christ that his own predicament pales into insignificance beside his burning desire to see the gospel proclaimed. 

What is our attitude to kingdom growth, when we see it bursting into life? Perhaps another church in our neighbourhood is growing and drawing people away from our own fellowship, or someone is preaching the good news in new ways and – seemingly – with wrong motives. Of course we should ask questions of others’ gospel work – Paul certainly does. Yet our overriding response should still be joy that the kingdom is advancing. I confess that pastors like myself are the worst at this, often too concerned about growth in our own churches to rejoice in the fruitfulness of others! These verses call us to repent and to celebrate kingdom growth wherever it occurs. A secondary application is to carry that generosity into the whole of life and be glad when others are successful. Let’s be generous, for in so doing we reflect the heart of God. 

Think of a church in your area that is growing. Rejoice in all that God is doing and pray that their outreach in the run-up to Christmas is fruitful.