Philippians 1:12-26 - The Progress Of The Gospel
12 I would have you understand, my brothers, that my affairs have really tended to advance the gospel; 13 throughout the whole of the praetorian guard and everywhere else it is recognized that I am imprisoned on account of my connexion with Christ, 14 and my imprisonment has given the majority of the brotherhood greater confidence in the Lord to venture on speaking the word of God without being afraid. 15 Some of them, it is true, are actually preaching Christ from envy and rivalry, others from goodwill; 16 the latter do it from love to me, knowing that I am set here to defend the gospel, 17 but the former proclaim Christ for their own ends, with mixed motives, intending to annoy me as I lie in prison. 18 What does it matter? Anyhow, for ulterior ends or honestly, Christ is being proclaimed, and I rejoice over that; yes and I will rejoice over it. 19 The outcome of all this, I know, will be my release, as you continue to pray for me, and as I am provided with the Spirit of Jesus Christ ??20 my eager desire and hope being that I may never feel ashamed but that now as ever I may do honour to Christ in my own person by fearless courage. Whether that means life or death, no matter!
21 As life means Christ to me, so death means gain. 22 But then, if it is to be life here below, that means fruitful work for me. So ??well, I cannot tell which to choose; 23 I am in a dilemma between the two. My strong desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far the best. 24 But for your sakes it is necessary I should live on here below. 25 I am sure it is, and so I know I shall remain alive and serve you all by forwarding your progress and fostering the joy of your faith. 26 Thus you will have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus over me ??over my return to you.