The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. (Philippians 1:18)
Through his ministry Paul confronted false teachers and apostles - people preaching a gospel other than that of Christ crucified and risen. He especially locked horns with the 'circumcision party' who sought to obligate all gentile converts with the full press of the Jewish tradition. Here Paul does not seem to be questioning the content of the message preached as much as the motive for preaching. His opponents preach Christ, but out of envy and rivalry.
Just yesterday I stumbled across a flyer advertising a forthcoming conference. One of the featured speakers is a famous proponent of the so-called prosperity gospel where giving to God is sold a as a get-rich quick scheme. This heresy has been a cancer in the church and should be opposed firmly at every opportunity. This is an example of false doctrine. False motives like Paul speaks of in this passage are even more prevalent.
I love to preach, and I love to preach the gospel. I feel like I was made for this purpose. But I also am deeply aware that I too often preach out of false motives. For example, I want to impress people with my biblical insight or move people with my passionate rhetoric. I play to the audience. My heart is a work in progress - it is still capable of deceit and ambition. The good news for me is that God chooses to use fragile jars of clay like me to carry the message of his saving grace to the world. The fact that I have been entrusted with this message is perhaps an even more profound witness to the grace of God than my words can ever portray.
Thank you Lord that through impure men and women like me the purity of your gospel is made known. What a privilege!
You've never given a dodgy message if that's any comfort :)
Posted by: Leeann | November 28, 2010 at 07:33 PM