More About Jesus

These two verses, once again, revolve around the work of Christ in Paul’s life. The apostle’s willingness to imitate Christ’s humility and selflessness is amazing as we recall his current circumstances. I can only imagine how exhausted he must be from all his labor, travels, writing, and imprisonment, so the aspect of leaving his weary body must have been enticing, although for Paul being with Christ was so much more than that. Regardless, Paul knew that the Philippians needed him more than he needed to be with Jesus, and yet he proclaims his confidence that his work with the Philippians is not quite complete, suggesting he would return to them, ministering to them so that their faith would grow as they understood more of their lives in Christ, resulting in deepened joy. How does Paul know this though? How can he be confident that he will return to them? Although Paul may have felt the peace of God regarding remaining on earth, it may have been more than that which prompted Paul to express what he did. It appeared that he knew that the arguments supporting his imprisonment were quite weak (Acts 23:29; 25:25; 26:31-32), thus giving him confidence in his release.

The Philippians “will have even more reason to boast” (1:25) when Paul returns to them because of the work of Christ in their lives through Paul. This boasting wouldn’t simply be the result of Paul’s release, but more so the result of the continued work of Christ in the lives of the Philippians as they would “grow and experience the joy of [their] faith” (1:25).

I am reminded from these verses how important it is to grow in our faith – to understand more and more who we are in Christ and the glorious benefits that accompany our relationship with Him. The more we learn, understand, and take to heart concerning Christ, the greater our joy will be. Christ will fill our hearts as we long for Him rather than the things of this world, which the prince of this world uses to steal our joy. So, dear friends, remain steadfast and press ahead, doing everything you can to know God more – an inexhaustible and glorious quest. To Him be all glory, honor, and power!

I leave you with the words of a wonderful hymn, More About Jesus …

More about Jesus would I know,
More of His grace to others show;
More of His saving fullness see,
More of His love Who died for me.

(Refrain)
More, more about Jesus,
More, more about Jesus;
More of His saving fullness see,
More of His love Who died for me.

More about Jesus let me learn,
More of His holy will discern;
Spirit of God, my teacher be,
Showing the things of Christ to me.

More about Jesus; in His Word,
Holding communion with my Lord;
Hearing His voice in every line,
Making each faithful saying mine.

More about Jesus; on His throne,
Riches in glory all His own;
More of His kingdom’s sure increase;
More of His coming, Prince of Peace.