Philippians 1:15 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: I. THE THEME. His person and work — His grace and power — His gifts and promises — His example and requirements. II. THE MOTIVE. Sometimes impure; as sectarian, mercenary, ambitious — sometimes sincere; from love to God and man. III. THE RESULT. Some good every way — Christ is exalted — the faithful rejoice, (J. Lyth, D. D.) I. THE PREACHING OF CHRIST. No preaching can bear this designation which does not constitute Him the grand object of it. From the first the holy men who spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit pointed to Him. All the Scriptures lead, remotely, perhaps, but certainly, to the Cross of Christ. He is to be preached as the only object of faith, and the sole source of salvation. Opposition must not hinder, nor heresy divert this. II. THE SCALE ON WHICH CHRIST IS TO BE PREACHED. 1. To all peoples — Philippians and Romans, Europeans and Africans. 2. By men of all views and denominations, Jewish and Gentile Christians; Roman Catholics and Protestants; Anglicans and Dissenters, etc. III. THE SPIRIT IN WHICH THIS SHOULD BE RECEIVED. There are two classes interested. 1. Ministers should rejoice when they see the gospel spreading on all sides and among all denominations. Let it not be said of them, "Ye know not what spirit ye are off." No jealous or envious feeling at others' successes should be cherished by them. 2. Congregations while loyal to their own Church should put a generous construction on the work of others. IV. THE GLORIOUS RESULTS ARISING OUT OF THIS. 1. In time. 2. In eternity. (W. B. Collyer, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:WEB: Some indeed preach Christ even out of envy and strife, and some also out of good will. |
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