https://youtu.be/–FrfmZdZ1k

“And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear….. Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him,” Philippians 1:14, 27-29 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/php.1.14-29.NIV

Paul was imprisoned for sharing the gospel because society was intolerant of the message he proclaimed about God. Being arrested and persecuted by the government has the tendency to quiet the rest of the Church. Paul rejoiced that his imprisonment resulted in greater boldness by the Church, probably due to his consistency in sharing Christ, whether in prison or out. Paul also rejoiced that because of his boldness, the Philippians were now working together even more to proclaim the gospel, not allowing their fear of men to keep them from fearing God and obeying His command to His Church to make disciples. This work God has given to us is the work He will reward us for accomplishing, particularly when we suffer because of our obedience. Jesus suffered for proclaiming the Truth that He is God and the Savior of the world. Paul, too, suffered from sharing this same message. Jesus’ Church continues to suffer all over the world for identifying with Jesus and proclaiming that He alone is God and Savior of the world. Men are intolerant of this message, wanting to be gods themselves, and so persecute those who proclaim the truth. American Christians have been in hiding for the most part these past thirty years as the culture has shifted from a Christian foundation to a secular one. President Trump is tearing down the leftist ideology that drove so many in the Church to fear men and keep them from making disciples by sharing the gospel and teaching obedience to everything Jesus commands. While Trump is no Apostle Paul, the Church must reengage its mission, the Great Commission, and no longer allow fear of men to keep them from obedience to God. Now is the time to identify with Jesus and make Him known in the marketplace and in the neighborhood. We may still suffer for this work, but the great reward is for those who suffer in the Name of Jesus. Let us be bold and courageous, for great is our God, and great is His reward to all who faithfully obey His commands.