Philippians 1:21-30

GOD’S WORD Translation

²¹ Christ means everything to me in this life, and when I die I’ll have even more. ²² If I continue to live in this life, my work will produce more results. I don’t know which I would prefer. ²³ I find it hard to choose between the two. I would like to leave this life and be with Christ. That’s by far the better choice. ²⁴ But for your sake it’s better that I remain in this life. ²⁵ Since I’m convinced of this, I know that I will continue to live and be with all of you. This will help you to grow and be joyful in your faith. ²⁶ So by coming to you again, I want to give you even more reason to have pride in Christ Jesus with me.

Fighting for the Faith

²⁷ Live as citizens who reflect the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come to see you or whether I stay away, I’ll hear all about you. I’ll hear that you are firmly united in spirit, united in fighting for the faith that the Good News brings. ²⁸ So don’t let your opponents intimidate you in any way. This is God’s way of showing them that they will be destroyed and that you will be saved. ²⁹ God has given you the privilege not only to believe in Christ but also to suffer for him. ³⁰ You are involved in the same struggle that you saw me having. Now you hear that I’m still involved in it.